December is here, and hence the holiday season is in full force. The snow has started falling, the lights have started shining and the shopping has started in earnest. Hopefully, you’re out there shopping local whenever you can – a thriving community depends on consumers buying from their neighbors.

But shopping local doesn’t end with retail. You should shop local when it comes to your Yuletide entertainment as well. And here’s the thing – you can do that, because there is an embarrassment of riches out there for locally-offered holiday performance.

Sure, you could sit at home and watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” for the umpteenth time or run through your Christmas Spotify playlist. But where’s the fun in that?

Especially when you take into account that our region is absolutely jammed with possibilities. There are stage shows and concerts galore. There is comedy and drama and so much music. There are holiday classics and brand-new creations. All of it right here in your backyard.

Look, if you want to stay home and drink hot toddies in front of a roaring fireplace, that’s perfectly OK. No judgment – sounds like you’ve figured out what it is you want from the holiday season and life in general. But if you’re looking to be entertained, well … you’re in luck.

In recent years, it seems as though every December has had a wealth of options. But this year more than ever, it feels like there really is something for everyone out there.

Please note that this isn’t even close to everything out there. I’ve just chosen a handful of options that might pique your interest. Keep your eyes open and your ears to the ground, because there is just so much out there, with so many people celebrating with their own joyful noises.

If your holiday tradition involves taking in a show, you’re in luck – performances abound.

Area performing arts groups are bringing a wealth of holiday shows to local stages over the coming weeks. From longstanding traditions to fun new experiences to beloved classics, all manner of Yuletide fun will be treading the boards. No matter what kind of showgoing experience you’re looking for this season, you’ll be able to find it.

Robinson Ballet's past, its future and its 40th season

BANGOR One of Bangor's longest-tenured and beloved artistic institutions is celebrating a big birthday this year. The Robinson Ballet is marking 40 years as part of the cultural and creative firmament in this region.

BANGOR - Robinson Ballet, Bangor's Premier Dance Performance Company & Dance School is proud to announce the addition of ACHIEVE Programs, a series of educational outreach programs designed to bring dance education into area schools, into the organization. The addition of ACHIEVE, or Arts Can Help Inspire Everyone to Excel, further continues the Robinson Ballet mission to engage the community through dance by offering education for people of all ages, abilities and aspirations. The program was formerly housed under Community Health & Counseling Services and has served over 8,000 students in the past nineteen years. It was absorbed by Robinson Ballet after the program was in danger of being discontinued due to lack of funding. Robinson staff and board members saw an opportunity to combine the programs with their own educational outreach initiatives.

Robinson Ballet LIVE 2013 at Bangor Opera House

BANGOR The Robinson Ballet's annual spring dance show has always been a highlight of the season for me. It's as much as sign of winter's departure as melting snow or tulips. And they never fail to put on a fun show. 

Robinson Ballet LIVE 2013 runs through April 13 at the Bangor Opera House. In addition, the company will be presenting their Youth Matinee production of 'Aladdin' on April 13.