ForYourArt selects the best opportunities to SEE, COLLECT, LEARN ABOUT, and SUPPORT art each week.
THURSDAY DECEMBER 20
States of Matter
The York (Highland Park)
8-11 p.m.
Opening reception for an installation by Shana McCaw and Brent Budsberg. The work was produced in conjunction with the Center for Land Use Interpretation's Wendover, UT Residence program. The exhibition of photography and video documents the toil of two pioneer-era characters.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21
Holiday Boat Parade 2012
600 East Bay Avenue (Newport Beach)
6 p.m.-12 a.m.
The 104th annual Boat Parade in Newport Beach and the End Of The World party. The boat parade runs from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. A Latin Brass Orchestra will perform during the ceremony, and DJs will spin late into the night. This event is 21+ and holiday and cocktail attire is encouraged. Entry is free until 8 p.m. with an RSVP to rsvp@collaborativemedia.com; entry is a $5 donation to the Explorocean Foundation at the door after that.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22
The Nutcracker
Valley Performing Arts Center (Northridge)
7:30 p.m.
Los Angeles Ballet returns to Valley Performing Arts Center with its production of The Nutcracker. Follow Clara and her Nutcracker to the magical Land of Snow, and to the enchanted Palace of the Dolls where all of Clara's favorite companions come to life. Tickets are available online.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 24
L.A. County Holiday Celebration
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion (Downtown)
3-6 p.m.
A medley of seasonal music and dance on display at this year's L.A. County Holiday Celebration. Bands, choirs, and dance companies representing the diverse cultures and holiday traditions of L.A. take the stage at this event. There is free parking and pre-show plaza activities beginning at 12 p.m.