By Maggie McKay, KFWB Afternoon Anchor

The Nutcracker

In our family it’s a tradition to go to the Nutcracker every year and try different productions of it, but last year we loved it so much that we’re going back to the Westside School of Ballet’s version at the Wadsworth Theater in Brentwood. The dancing, the costumes, the sets — all beautifully executed.  All ages will love it but it’s ONLY this weekend. For more info go to westsideballet.com/nutcracker.

Although I haven’t been to either of the next two events I’ve heard RAVE reviews and am going to try to make it to at least one of them.

Marina del Rey Boat Parade

The 50th anniversary of the Marina del Rey Boat Parade gets underway Saturday at 6 starting with fireworks. It lasts about 2 hours but you should plan ahead and get there early because it is popular. Also, dress warm! For more info go to MDRBoatParade.org.

Gala Holiday Concert

This Sunday at 4 p.m. it’s a concert for your ears and soul at the First Baptist Church of Glendale. A gala holiday concert featuring special performances by internationally acclaimed musicians including cellist Ruslan Biryukov. The concert will feature a variety of orchestral pieces, holiday songs, arias, and Armenian folk songs, under the baton of Maestro Mikael Avetisyan, artistic director and principal conductor of the Glendale Philharmonic Orchestra.

The First Baptist Church of Glendale was originally built in 1924. It is considered a historical landmark and has been beautifully restored. For more information, visit www.GlendalePhil.com,  or call (323) 663-3601 or (818) 243-ALEX(2539).