If you stay home this month, you ol’ Humbug you, you’ll miss all the fun being created by your friends and neighbors.

We know that these volunteers have day jobs, and families and other real-life time commitments like laundry, and meals and homework. But somehow, they seem to find enough time to spin a season of fun together for the rest of us.

Some of our special “don’t miss” favorite events happen this weekend and next, and most are low or no-cost. Details are in our Calendar on Page A6.

Yul Fest: Sure it’s cold, but there’s nothing quite so reminiscent of our Nordic heritage as watching those torches as the Lucia Bride emerges from her boat to come and light the Yul Log in Poulsbo’s Waterfront Park. Bring the kids, it’s this Saturday night and very memorable.

Lighted Boat Parades: Be sure to send in your “greeting” message soon, and have a spot picked out to watch the boats along the waterfront.

Reindeer: No kidding. Valley Nursery has real live reindeer here for a visit until Dec. 10. Take the kids, and a camera.

Great Theater: There’s nothing quite like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Scrooge,” “Code Red,” “Nutcracker,” or “Angels Aware” to put you in a holiday mood. Each of these special theatrical events is the work of volunteer actors, costume-sewers and set designers. Truly labors of love, holiday theater events are a seasonal treat.

Port Gamble Country Christmas: All year long we wait for this chance to go “in” those historic houses. Santa, hayrides, a great craft show, museum tours, it’s an annual joy.

Manor Farm Open House: Another holiday must-do. This is an annual fundraiser for Toys for Tots, so be sure to bring an unwrapped toy and some food for the food banks. Take a hayride, pet the animals, and be sure to visit Santa in the barn. Carolers, cider, Christmas spirit in abundance.

Kingston Tree Lighting and Lighted Boats: Another chance to remind yourself why you choose to live in a small community on the water. It’s old fashioned and a chance to meet your neighbors (and sneak in a little shopping, too).

Wreaths: North Kitsap High School, Kingston Junior High and Hospice all have holiday wreaths available.

Go to as many of these special events as you can––and while you’re there, remember to thank the people who work so hard to make them possible.