Dec. 18-19: Christmastime For The Jews

The signs of the coming Christmas frenzy are everywhere. The mall has become a no-go zone. The airwaves on the radio and at the local coffee shop echo in a near-constant loop of 'Silent Night.' And news sites like this one are usually filled with tree-trimming tips, fruitcake recipes and Santa Claus.

What's a good, self-respecting Jew supposed to do? 

Well, check back with Little Neck Patch, for starters. All through this weekend into next week, we'll have stories, events and announcements for everyone this holiday season.

1. There's still time to sign up your little one for Young Chefs' (secular) Solstice Celebration at Alley Pond Environmental Center. But you'd better hurry; there are only eight slots available. The lessons, which include the baking of cookies, begin at 10:30 a.m. today.

2. Feel like celebrating the season with your non-Jewish neighbors? The Bayside Power Squadron holds their annual Christmas/Chanukah Party at Autun's Queens Village on Sunday at 3 p.m. Late reservations are $70.

3. The Nutcracker in Queens. Despite its Christmas Eve setting, the last time anyone checked, this timeless classic about a Russian girl, the Mouse King and The Land of Sweets had nothing to do with a child born in a stable in Bethlehem. Check out the days/times of performances at Queens Theatre In The Park .

4. O.K., we know it's a cliché. But we at Little Neck Patch thought you'd still like to know what was open on Christmas Day, the best places to get Chinese food in northeast Queens and what's playing at local movie theaters — coming your way next week.

5. Also next week: look for our next installment of Street Talk where we'll ask Little Neck's Chosen to tell us what they plan to do on Christmas.