Global Winnipeg’s Weekend Funcast Dec. 18 – 21

WINNIPEG —  It’s finally time for the weekend! If you’re not too busy with last minute shopping, meeting up with relatives, or prepping for a holiday party, here is a top five list of events and activities to try.

It’s a Dickens of a Christmas at Dalnavert

Dalnavert Museum is welcoming a Christmas tradition, with readings of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. The 1895 home of former Manitoba premier Sir Hugh John MacDonald will be decorated for a Victorian Christmas, a perfect backdrop to this timeless tale of Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the three Ghosts of Christmas. There will also be warm beverages and holiday treats.  Tickets are $25.

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Assiniboine Park Zoo

If you’re hoping to get into the holiday spirit, the Assiniboine Park Zoo is offering free admission for kids aged 12 and under. It kicks off Dec. 19 and 20, with visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, Scuba Santa, and Winston, the polar bear mascot. Free admission runs until January 3, 2016.

Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity

The Winnipeg Art Gallery is showcasing the world’s best commercials this weekend. The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity runs all weekend until Dec. 20. Tickets are $12 for WAG members, seniors and students, and $14 for non-members.

The Nutcracker

The annual holiday classic, the Nutcracker kicks off at the Centennial Concert Hall on Saturday Dec. 19 and runs until Monday Dec. 28. The story is about a young girl’s enchanted Christmas gift that leads her into a magical world, full of winter characters and settings. Festive costumes and Canadian backdrops such as a snowy pond hockey game are a few notable features.

The Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky composition started in 1891 and has since been performed by ballet companies around the world every holiday season.

WWE Holiday Tour

The WWE is returning to the MTS Centre on Sunday Dec. 20. This will be your chance to see your favorite WWE superstars and divas during one night of intense live event action. Tickets start at $15 and can be purchased online at ticketmaster.ca.