Celebrating the holidays away from home is easy in Champaign-Urbana. Here are some ways to start off holiday festivities early.

The Nutcracker at the Krannert Center Tryon Festival Theatre

The Champaign-Urbana Ballet performs

• Dec. 5
• 7:30 p.m.
• Dec. 6, 7
• 2, 7:30 p.m.

Pauli Carman and the Tons O Fun Band

Pauli Carman, lead singer for CBS Recording group “Champaign,” will sing holiday songs along with the Tons ‘O Fun Band and appearances by the Central Illinois Children’s Chorus. Tony Clements MC for this show, and a portion of the proceeds will go towards the Virginia Theatre Restoration Fund and the Developmental Service Center’s “Tree of Hope” Campaign.

• The Virginia Theater
• Dec. 5
• 7:30 p.m.

“White Christmas” showing

• Dec. 6
• 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
• The Virginia Theatre

Parade of Lights

The 2008 parade themed “Miracle on Main Street,” winds through downtown Champaign.

• Dec. 6
• 5:30 p.m.

Holiday Tree lighting

• One Main Plaza, downtown Champaign
• Dec. 6
• 6:45 p.m.

Holiday Market 2008

The Urbana Business Association hosts the annual market featuring local artists.

• Lincoln Square Mall
• Dec. 6, 13 and 20
• 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Holiday Tree Lighting

The Krannert Center Student Association hosts the yearly event with music and a visit from Santa.

• Krannert Center
• Dec. 7
• 4:30 p.m.

The Fifth Annual Chanukah Bowl

Students can participate in Cosmic Bowling, Dreidel Competitions, Chanukah music, and refreshments.

• Illini Union Rec Room
• Dec. 8
• 7:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Compiled by Kate Szyszka