Dec. 18-19: "The Nutcracker" and "A Cinderella Christmas Story" Take the Stage

"The Nutcracker" At College of DuPage

Von Heidecke's Chicago Festival Ballet presents "The Nutcracker" on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. and on Dec. 19 at 2 p.m. at the McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., in Glen Ellyn. Tickets range $27-37. Call the ticket office at 630-942-4000.

Enchanted Railroad

This annual holiday model train is on display at the Morton Arboretum daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Trains of different shapes and sizes circle around a holiday-themed track. Tickets are free. Exhibit will be closed Dec. 24, 25 and Jan. 1.

A Festival of Advent: Christmas Carols at Union Church

Suburban choirs join a hand bell and brass ensemble at Union Church in Hinsdale to play favorite Christmas hymns on Dec. 19 at 7:30 p.m., 137 S. Garfield Ave. Event is free and open to all. Call 630-323-4303 for more information.  

"A Cinderella Christmas Story"

When a stranded and pregnant modern day couple meet Cindy of Bethlehem, Iowa it seems as if the greatest Christmas story ever told has intersected with the greatest love story ever told. Admission is free. Held at the La Grange Christian Assembly, 5707 Wolf Road Saturday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. For more information, call 708-246-2780.

Candy Cane Hunt

Join the Pleasant Dale Park District on Sunday, Dec. 19 at 1 p.m. for an all ages candy cane hunt. Event is free.