Friday, December 20 Book & Beer Monterey Book Club meets monthly at Other Brother Beer Co. Look for the pile of books and you will certainly find your reading companions. Join an engaging discussion about the group’s December selection, The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. The book was named one of the best books of the 21st century, as voted by the New York Times’ readers’ list announced recently. Grab a drink, meet new friends and dive into the world of literature. This event is perfect for anyone who loves to read— you’re also welcome even if you haven’t read the book. The club reads a wide selection of genres, alternating fiction and nonfiction monthly: memoirs, literary novels, sci-fi, art, science, health, environmentalism, activism, politics, community and local interest, as well as women writers and first-wave through modern feminist writing including erotica and social issues. “We’re a diverse, progressive, LGBTQ+ welcoming book club,” the organizers promise. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with fellow book lovers and share your thoughts on the latest page-turner. [AP] 5:30-7pm Friday, Dec. 20. Other Brother Beer Co. (second floor), 877 Broadway Ave., Seaside. Free. 747-1106, bit.ly/ OtherBrotherBookClub. Solstice Strings Local musician Dave Holodiloff, who expertly plies his trade with a mandolin, has a name that affords him some unique branding opportunities at this time of year: This Friday, Pacific Grove nonprofit’s Center for Spiritual Awakening will host the 12th Annual “Enchanted Winter Holiday-loff Solstice Concert” featuring Holodiloff and his band, who include Santa Cruz fiddler Elijjah McCullar and Pacific Grove pianist Michael Martinez. The band will be playing tunes off Holodiloff’s Enchanted Winter II Holiday-loff Jams, as well as others, including originals, that cover a wide range of sounds—Celtic, Latin, Balkan, folk and Gypsy. What does Balkan music sound like? Or Gypsy? Come to CSA to find out, and experience a funky, jazzy mashup from Holodiloff and his band—the vibes promise to be merry. [DS] 36 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY december 19-25, 2024 www.montereycountynow.com Iluminado Monterey Museum Of Art (559 Pacific St., Monterey) presents Iluminado. This is not just a chance to see a growing art installation, but an invitation to be part of it, for free. That is through interactive pieces as well as programs in December for adults, students and families, from Family Fun Day to Yoga in the Galleries to a Winter Art Market or ornament-decorating. Two artists present their work. Alison Oksner, whose mural is featured above, communicates through murals, multimedia collaborations and performance. In an era of constant visual and digital communication, painting alone offers Oksner a method of analog participation. In public art and performance, she strives to meet others in conversation and documentation. Nada Abdelshahid is known for her sculptures made from natural materials, discarded parts and industrial detritus. [AP] 19-25 December HOT PICKS To see more local events, and add your own, visit calendar.montereycountynow.com Monterey Museum of Art VISUALS Will Bullas Seventy-nine Carmel Art Association artists present Art of Gifting: 100 under $1,000. At this reasonable price you can get something truly unique, such as “You Shouldn’t Have,” the piece above by Will Bullas. It’s an exhibition celebrating the joy of sharing art this holiday season (at Dolores Street, between 5th and 6th, Carmel). Bullas makes fine art fun. This master of oneliners combines award-winning artistic skills with a hilarious point of view, creating a refreshing and unexpected way to enjoy fine art. For 40 years, Bullas has been making believers of collectors and critics alike. Featuring 100 original works by local CAA artists—all priced under $1,000—this curated collection invites you look, or also to find the perfect gift for your loved ones (or a special piece for your own collection). Until Jan. 6. [AP] How should a Santa look? Is it acceptable for a Santa to be fit? Must his beard be white? Should he wear sneakers or perhaps warm boots? Be your best Santa and get ready to meet other Santas in Pacific Grove. shutterstock Paper Wing Theatre says it’s tea time. One of the best is Earl Grey brought from India by Charles Grey, the second Earl Grey and British Prime Minister in the 1830s. Sarah Gaudoin Will Bullas
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