KEY Magazine Fort Worth

DECEMBER 2004

Ongoing Grapevine Vintage Railroad Excursions-Puffy, the 1896 Steam Engine #2248, pulls the train's period coaches several times weekly on its Grapevine to Ft. Worth Stockyards run and a modern diesel engine travels on Wednesdays. Schedules are: Grapevine, Texas to the Ft. Worth Stockyards-leaves Grapevine Fri. & Sat. at 10 a.m. to arrive in the Stockyards about 11:30 a.m.; returns to Grapevine about 4 p.m.; Sun. departs at 1 p.m. & arrives in the Stockyards around 2:30 p.m.; boards again at 5 p.m. & arrives back in Grapevine about 6:30 p.m. An hour-long ride from the Fort Worth Stockyards and back, called the Trinity River Run, is Fri. & Sat. at 1 p.m. & Sun. at 3:30 p.m. Grapevine to the Stockyards $20 (1-way, $14), seniors 55+, $18 (1-way, $12) & children 3-12, $10 (1-way, $7). Trinity River Run Gen. Ad. $10, seniors $9 & children $6. Plan to be at the station 1 hr. before departure. no trains will run Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Depots are located in Grapevine, 707 S. Main St. & the Ft. Worth Stockyards Station, 140 E. Exchange Ave., 817-625-7245, www.gvrr.com.

Ongoing The Sid Richardson Collection of Western Art in Sundance Square exhibits 60 master works by famed artists Frederic Remington & Charles Russell. Russell's work was inspired by nostalgia for history and Native American culture. Remington admired American cowboys and painted an impressionist's view of their lives. Hrs. Tues. & Wed. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. & Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. 1-5 p.m. Free. 309 Main St., 817-332-6554, www.sidrmuseum.org.

Ongoing Ft. Worth Botanic Garden-Wander among trees, flowers and along waterways of the 109-acre park. An exhibition greenhouse and gift shop are two detours in the journey. The main gardens are free & open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. A small fee is required for the 7.5 acre Japanese garden, which is open daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and offers tours that take about an hour. A small fee is also required for the conservatory-open Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. & Sun. 1-4 p.m. The Gardens Restaurant and the Treasure Tree Gift Shop are also on site. Off University Dr. at 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd., 817-871-7689, www.fwbg.com.

Ongoing Glen Rose, TX-Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a unique wildlife Refuge situated in the sprawling Texas hill country that features guided tours, camping and wildlife studies. Hrs. 9 a.m. until two hrs. before sunset. Open daily except major holidays. Gen. Ad. $16.95, seniors $12.95, children 3-11, $10.95, children under 3, free. 3 miles south of Glen Rose, off Hwy. 67, 254-897-2960, www.fossilrim.org.

Ongoing The Ft. Worth Zoo, home to over 5,000 native and exotic animals and a world famous reptile collection, is rated one of America's top zoos by Family Life magazine, the Los Angeles Times, USA Today and Southern Living Reader's Choice Awards. Texas Wild!, an 8-acre area allows guests to encounter more than 300 creatures and visit 6 regions of the Lone Star State in just hours. The Zagat Survey U.S. Family Travel Guide recently rated it the #1 attraction in the DFW area and #19 among the "50 Overall Top-Rated Attractions" in the entire United States. "Parrot Paradise" opened in June and features 600 exotic birds. Lorikeets, cockatiels and parakeets now inhabit an aviary where guests may purchase nectar and seed and enter to feed the birds. The colorful birds were raised in captivity, and are comfortable with people. Daily 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day noon to 4 p.m. Gen. Ad. $9.75, seniors 65+, $6.25, children 3-12, $7.25, toddlers 2 & under, free. Ticket price includes entry into Texas Wild!. Parking $5. Half-price tickets on Wednesdays. 1989 Colonial Pkwy., 817-871-7050, www.fortworthzoo.org.

Ongoing The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame houses over 2,000 artifacts and information about more than 400 remarkable women. The $21 million, 33,000 square foot museum honors women who have distinguished themselves while exemplifying the pioneer spirit of the American West. Hrs. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m..-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m., closed Mon. Gen. Ad. $6, seniors $5 & youths 6-18, $4, children 5 & under, free. 1720 Gendy St., 817-336-4475, 800-476-3263, www.cowgirl.net.

Ongoing Ft. Worth Trinity Park-The Log Cabin Village living history museum depicts the lifestyle of pioneers who settled this area in the mid-to-late 1800s. Hrs. Tues.-Fri. 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Gen. Ad. $2.50, seniors & youths 4-17, $2, children under 4, free. 2100 Log Cabin Village Ln., 817-926-5881, www.logcabinvillage.org.

Ongoing Arlington, TX-"Johnnie High's Country Music Revue" is a live show performed on Fridays and Saturdays in the Arlington Music Hall by an 8-piece band and 20 performers. High celebrated his 30th year in the entertainment business in September 2004. Tickets are now available for his month-long series of Christmas shows. 7:30 p.m. 224 N. Center St., 817-226-4400, www.johnniehigh.com.

Ongoing Arlington, TX-The Legends of the Game Baseball Museum, at Ameriquest Field in Arlington, features baseball uniforms, balls, playing cards and photographs depicting the history of the sport. The Learning Center for Children houses interactive exhibits on baseball and how the sport is related to fields such as science, math, history, geography and communications. Tours of the ballpark are available. 1000 Ballpark Way, 817-273-5842.

Ongoing Fort Worth Stockyards Historical District-The Texas Longhorn Cattle Drive occurs twice daily, weather permitting, but they don't mosey-along on major holidays. Herders dressed in 19th-century cowboy gear drive 15 to 17 head of cattle down Exchange Ave. Best viewing areas for the 11:30 a.m. & 4 p.m. drives are the front lawn of the Livestock Exchange Bldg. or across the street near the Stockyards Visitor's Center. Watching the herd is free. Along E. Exchange Ave., 817-336-4373.

Ongoing Fort Worth's history is housed in the 94-year-old Fire Station No. 1 building located in the City Center Complex. This Fort Worth Museum of Science & History exhibit traces Fort Worth's development from its beginning as a frontier outpost, through its rowdy youth as a cattle town to the present. The exhibit features graphics, historical artifacts, photographs and documents, reproduced paintings and original posters. Hrs. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Free. Corner of 2nd & Commerce Sts., 817-255-9408.

Ongoing The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth has a permanent collection that includes various movements, themes and styles, including Abstract Expressionism, Color Field Painting, Pop Art and Minimalism. The museum focuses on Post-World War II international art in all media. Tours Tues.-Sun. at 2 p.m., beginning in the lobby (free with admission). Gen. Ad. $6, Seniors, and students with an ID, $4, children under 13, free. Tues. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Wed., Thurs., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Mondays, Christmas & New Year's Day. 3200 Darnell St., 817-738-9215, www.themodern.org.

Ongoing Black Dog Tavern presents "The Jazz Monsters," a 20-piece professional jazz band consisting of esteemed musicians who have taught and performed throughout the Metroplex for years. Enjoy big band jazz from the ‘40s though the ‘90s, featuring arrangements by Count Basie, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Tom Kubis and many others. First Sunday of each month from 5-7:30 p.m. Adm. Free (donations accepted). Downtown Fort Worth, 903 Throckmorton St., 817-332-8190.

Ongoing Rose Marine Theater-Fort Worth Latin Arts Association's performing arts and film series. Experience an introduction to the Hispanic settlers who enriched Fort Worth with their cultural heritage. An upcoming collage of music and dance entertainment includes a Flamenco Dance Company representing Spain, performers from San Antonio, a Bolivian performing group, and a film series honoring worldwide Hispanic culture all presented in a restored movie palace, circa 1918. 1440 N. Main St., 817-624-8333, www.rosemarinetheater.com.

Saturdays Grapevine's Palace Theatre-Yellow Rose Productions presents the Grapevine Opry Country Music Showcase. 7:30 p.m. Gen. Ad. $12, children $8. Senior & group discounts available. 300 S. Main St., 817-481-8733.

Through Dec. 12 Will Rogers Coliseum hosts the National Cutting Horse Association's 2004 World Championship Futurity. Non-pro events are Dec. 1 through Dec. 5. Celebrity Cutting is Friday, Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Amateur night is Dec. 6 along with the Charles Goodnight Gala that evening. Western Bloodstock Sales run from Dec. 4 through Dec. 12. Semi-finals are Dec. 9, and Finals are Dec. 10, with Open Semi Finals scheduled for Dec. 11. The Western Mercantile trade show will be open during the entire show. Gen. Ad. $6, Reserve $10. For more information, go to www.nchacutting.com. One Amon Carter Square.

Through Dec.18 Arlington, TX-The Arlington Museum of Art presents "Texas Paint, Part One: More True Stories." "True Stories" is the first in a series of exhibitions looking at themes in painting among emerging and established Texas artists. The exhibition examines the work of twelve artists whose paintings imply a narrative. Wed. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Thurs.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 201 W. Main St., 817-275-4600.

Through Dec.19 The Amon Carter Museum's "Encountering Texas: 1846-1856," features a group of drawings and watercolors created by three individuals with differing points of view, but together they provide a record of the vast unknown region that was becoming the state of Texas. Edward Everett and James Gilchrist Benton were military men who, during their brief time in Texas, made drawings of the places they saw, which were primarily sites in and around the main military post at San Antonio. Sarah Ann Lillie Hardinge, by contrast, came to Texas with her new husband to build a home. Her view of Texas is portrayed through the challenges of homesteading on the open range. Free. Tues., Wed., Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. noon-5 p.m. Closed major holidays. 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817-738-1933, www.cartermuseum.org.

Through Dec. 19 Granbury, TX-The Granbury Opera House (restored from 1886) cast performs Holiday Memories, a loving adaptation of Truman Capote's recollections of his youth in the rural South during the Depression. Living with a slightly dotty but loving "cousin," Capote remembers back to the time when he was about 10 years old and it was fruitcake baking time. A real holiday treat for all ages! Fri. & Sat. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. Tickets $16-$24. On the Square. 866-572-0881, www.granburyoperahouse.org.

Through Dec. 23 Casa Mañana's Children's Playhouse presents the world premiere of Santa Is Missing!, a holiday musical comedy. Santa has mysteriously disappeared! It's up to Rudolph, Frosty, the Easter Bunny and many other favorite holiday characters to find Jolly Old Saint Nick in time to save Christmas. Tickets $13-$17. Fri. 7:30 p.m.; Sat. 2 & 6 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m. 3101 W. Lancaster, 817-332-2272, www.casamanana.org.

Through Dec. 31 Fort Worth Museum of Science and History's giant screened Omni Theater is showing Walt Disney's Sacred Planet. Narrated by Robert Redford, this 45 minute film takes viewers to the old growth forests of British Columbia, the snowy peaks and glaciers of Alaska, the red rock canyons of Utah and Arizona, the tropical jungles and under water mysteries of Borneo, the ancient ruins of Thailand,the remote deserts of Namibia and to the white sand beaches of New Zealand. Gen Ad. $7, seniors 60+, and children 3-12, $5. For show times call 888-255-9300 or go to www.fortworthmuseum.org. 1501 Montgomery St.

Through Jan. 2 Amon Carter Museum showcases "Brent Phelps: Photographing the Lewis and Clark Trail." From 1997 to 2002, Texas photographer Brent W. Phelps made a photographic survey of the trans-Mississippi route explored by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark from 1804 to 1806. Referring to the explorers' journals and using Global Positioning System technology, Phelps located sites visited by the expedition and photographed the locales during the same seasons and under similar weather conditions as those recorded by the explorers. Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. noon-5 p.m. Closed Mon. & major holidays. Gen. Ad. $8, seniors 62+ and college students with ID, $6, under 18, free. 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817-738-1933, www.cartermuseum.org.

Through Jan. 2 The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History hosts the special exhibit "Invention at Play." Visitors can explore the striking similarities between children's play and the creative processes used by innovators in science and technology. By engaging in four distinct types of play-working with magnet ramp and kitchen utensils, creating block towers on a wobbly surface, devising wind-powered devices, and tessellation patterns, players take part in inventive thinking. Admission is included in a ticket to the museum. Gen. Ad. $7, Seniors 60+ and children 3-12, $5. Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Fri. & Sat. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 1501 Montgomery St. 817-255-9300, www.fortworthmuseum.org.

Through Jan. 3 Grapevine, TX-The Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center on Lake Grapevine displays its "Lone Star Christmas." The new holiday tradition for North Texas began with a tree lighting ceremony Nov. 19. The resort is filled with strolling carolers, choirs, and other holiday music. Carriage rides take families around the grounds to enjoy unique outdoor holiday designs. And guests browsing the retail shops at the Gaylord Texan are sure to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Each of the restaurants at the Gaylord Texan are offering holiday-inspired menus as well as roasted chestnuts, cookie decorating, hot-spiced cider, eggnog, hot chocolate and other goodies. To make reservations, call 817-778-2000. 1501 Grapevine Trail, www.gaylordhotels.com.

Through Jan. 8 Cornerstone Theater of Fort Worth presents The Visitor, a musical set during Christmas time in the home of a troubled family who is visited by an angel in disguise. The original music, the warmth of the show, and the double surprise ending has delighted audiences for 23 years. $8-$10. 7:30 p.m. & Sat. 2:30 p.m. 5008 James Ave., 817-924-5559, www.cornerstonetheatre.biz.

Through Jan. 9 The Amon Carter Museum exhibit "Compatriots: George Washington, Charles Willson Peale, and the Marquis de Chastellux" features Charles Willson's painting of George Washington at Yorktown, on public display for the first time since 1782. This small but important exhibition also comprises Peale's Self Portrait (oil on canvas, 1822), on loan from the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco; and the Marquis de Chastellux's "American Chronicles…," a group of unpublished journals written by the French army officer. Free. Tues., Wed., Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. noon-5 p.m. 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817-738-1933, www.cartermuseum.org.

Through Jan. 30 The Amon Carter Museum presents "Double Take," an exhibition focusing on the reproduction of famous photographs. Most photographers make numerous prints of their most popular images. One might expect all of these photographic duplicates to look exactly the same, yet photographs often vary from print to print, sometimes in dramatic ways. Drawn from the Carter's own collection, this exhibition explores the work of several photographers including Ansel Adams, Alfred Stieglitz, Eliot Porter and Karl Struss. Free. Tues., Wed., Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. noon-5 p.m. 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817-738-1933, www.cartermuseum.org.

Through Jan. 30 Dallas, TX-The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza's 7th floor exhibition is "The Living Room Candidate: A History of Presidential Campaign Commercials, 1952-2004." The more than 200 commercials include "Eisenhower Answers America" in 1952, the notorious "Daisy Girl" ad from Lyndon Johnson's 1964 run for president, Ronald Reagan's "Morning in America" ads during 1984 and the controversial attack ads run during George W. H. Bush's 1988 campaign. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. 411 Elm St., 214-747-6660.

Through Feb. 6 The Kimbell Art Museum presents "Stubbs and the Horse" the first major exhibition in 20 years featuring the work of George Stubbs. Stubbs (1724-1806) was a great British painter of animals and outdoor life, and the first ever to focus on the central theme of his art, the horse. A selection of some 40 paintings and 30 drawings and prints will show the remarkable range and variety of Stubbs' images of the horse, from anatomical studies to equine portraits and scenes of mortal combat in the wild. The life-size painting of the racehorse Whistlejacket, perhaps Stubbs' most widely admired work, is part of the exhibition. Curated by the Kimbell's Malcolm Warner, "Stubbs and the Horse" was organized by the Kimbell Art Museum in association with the Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, and the National Gallery, London. A catalogue, written by Warner and independent scholar Robin Blake, is available in paperback for $29.95 or hardcover for $50, in the Museum Shop. Gen. Ad. $8, seniors 60+/students with ID $6, children 6-11, $4, children under 6 free. Half-price Tuesdays. Hrs. Tues.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri. noon-8 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. Closed on major holidays. 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817-332-1034, www.kimbellart.org.

Through Feb. 6 Western art by women artists from throughout the southwest are featured at the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame's exhibit. Featured artists include Cowgirl Hall of Fame honoree Glenna Goodacre. Goodacre presents an 8-foot Sacajawea statue as part of the exhibit. Gen. Ad. $6, seniors $5, children 6-18 $4, children 5 and under free. Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. noon-5 p.m. 1720 Gendy St., 817-336-4475, www.cowgirl.net.

Through March 3 The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History's Omni Theater is showing SOLARMAX. Every 11 years the sun's poles reverse with unimaginable violence. The peak of the storm is called a solarmax. SOLARMAX takes viewers on a journey through space and time, telling the story of man's burning curiosity about the sun throughout history including today's advances in solar science. Witness a total eclipse and the beauty and magnificence of the Aurora Borealis, viewed from both Earth and space. The film uses computer data generated by the Solar and Heliospheric Observer, which gives you the sense of actually being there. Director John Weiley and his crew received access and cooperation from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the European Space Agency while they were making this film. They traveled to every continent to build this story of the sun. Gen. Ad. $7, seniors 60+ and children 3-12, $5. For show times call 888-255-9300 or go to www.fortworthmuseum.org. 1501 Montgomery St.

Through April 24 The Amon Carter Museum presents "First Sight: Artist-Explorers of the American West." Approximately thirty watercolors, drawings, prints and illustrated books depicting instances of "first sight"-whether it is a place, a people, a thing or a "way of seeing"-are on view. Artists include Karl Bodmer, Alfred Jacob Miller, John Mix Stanley and Carl Wimar. Free. Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Thurs. 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m. Closed Mon. 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd., 817-738-1933, www.cartermuseum.org.

Through May 15 The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and Scholastic Entertainment, have teamed up to bring a new traveling exhibit entitled, Joshua's Journey: A Black Cowboy Rides the Chisholm Trail, based on the Scholastic Dear America/My Name is America book. Focusing on a small slice of American history known as the trail drive era, the exhibit introduces guests to life on the Chisholm Trail through the eyes of Joshua Loper, a 16-year-old black cowboy. Like the book, the Joshua's Journey exhibit begins with young Joshua leaving his home in South Texas to help drive a herd of cattle up the Chisholm Trail. On the way, Joshua writes about his travels in a journal, thus providing a glimpse into little-known role that black cowboys played during the late 19th century. The exhibit features a life-sized mannequin of Joshua dressed in period clothing. In the Ranch Life area, young visitors can try on Western hats, boots, chaps and bandanas. On the Trail offers a better understanding of the grueling days of a trail hand's work. Ad. adults $7, Seniors 60+, and children (3-12) $6. Exhibit hours are Mon-Thurs. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Fri & Sat 9:00 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sun. 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 1501 Montgomery St., 817-255-9300, www.fortworthmuseum.org.

1 The 2004-2005 Cliburn Concerts series brings seven of today's foremost classical artists to Fort Worth's Bass Performance Hall. This month features the world-renowned piano-cello duo Emanuel Ax and Yo-Yo Ma. Ax and Ma met as teenagers and have been making music together for more than twenty-five years–a partnership that has yielded three Grammy Awards. Although in high demand as soloists, both artists continue to make time for duo recitals. Tickets $20-$90. 8 p.m. Corner of 4th and Calhoun Sts., 817-335-9000, www.basshall.com.

1-15 Fort Worth's Hulen Mall hosts this year's annual performance of "The Singing Christmas Tree" presented by the Southcliff Baptist Church choir and orchestra. The Singing Christmas Tree features a 30 foot tree that holds over 100 choir members. Music is synchronized with more than 4,000 computer-operated lights throughout the tree. This year's performance features holiday and spiritual music along with live performances by the church's orchestra. Performances are free. Wed., Dec. 1st, 7 & 7:45 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 5th, 5:30 & 6:15 p.m.; Wed., Dec. 8th, 7 & 7:45 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 12th, 5:30 & 6:15 p.m.; Wed., Dec. 15th, 7 & 7:45 p.m. 4800 Hulen St., www.southcliff.com.

2 The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth presents "A Conversation with Bob Schieffer," hosted by Phil Record. Schieffer will discuss his new book, Face the Nation: My Favorite Stories from the First 50 Years of the Award-winning News Broadcast. A cocktail reception and book signing in Café Modern will follow. Bob Schieffer–Chief Washington correspondent for CBS News, the anchor and moderator of "Face the Nation" since 1991, and the New York Times bestselling author of the memoir This Just In – offers a rare glimpse into the newsrooms and boardrooms where decisions shaping the venerable broadcast have been made. Proceeds from this event benefit the educational programs at the Modern. Schieffer's book is available in The Modern Shop for $26.95. 6 p.m., $75. For reservations, please call 817-840-2115. 3200 Darnell St., www.themodern.org.

2 Grapevine, TX- Start your holiday season at the largest nighttime Christmas parade in North Texas-Grapevine's Parade of Lights. The parade begins at 7 p.m. at Main and Vine and heads north up Main Street to Wall Street. 817-410-3185, www.grapevinetexasusa.com.

2-30 Arlington, TX-The Spaghetti Warehouse presents a holiday Murder Mystery–CSI: North Pole. Global warming has urbanized The North Pole. Retirement homes, shopping malls, Starbucks and crime are everywhere. Now murder has landed on Santa's rooftop. Santa's Elfin team of forensic experts must work their magic to solve the murder before the media descends and ruins the holidays for everyone. Rated-PG. May not be suitable for children under 12. Tickets are $35 and includes dinner and the show. Reservations required. Every Thurs. in Dec. at 7 p.m. 1255 West I-20 Arlington, 817-557-0321, www.crimescenecompany.com.

2-19 Arlington, TX-Join Theatre Arlington for a revival of the holiday classic Miracle on 34th Street, where Kris Kringle creates waves of good will over Macy's customers and the commercial world of New York City. You too will believe in the joy of Christmas, the generosity of spirit, and, yes, Santa Claus. Gen. Ad. & seniors $15, children 11 and younger, $10. Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. 8 p.m. , Sat. 2 p.m. & 8 p.m. & Sun. 2 p.m. & 5:30 p.m. 305 West Main St., 817-275-7661, www.theatrearlington.org.

3 Billy Bob's Texas-Bleu Edmondson & Stoney Larue, 10:30 p.m., $8 & $11. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

3 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Oklahoma City Blazers, TCU Appreciation Night. Ticket discounts available for all TCU students, alumni and Frog Club members. TCU students and athletes will be recognized at the game, and the Brahmas will be wearing commemorative TCU themed jerseys that will be auctioned off immediately following the game. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10-$25. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

3-5 The Magnolia at the Modern screens A Letter to True, Bruce Weber's heartfelt tribute to his dogs, his friends and his friends' dogs. The film is fashioned as an open letter to his beloved golden retriever, True. Not rated. 78 minutes. Fri. 6 & 8 p.m., Sat. 5 p.m. & Sun. 6 & 8 p.m. $7.50. 3200 Darnell St., 817-738-9215, www.themodern.org.

3,4,10,11 Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District-Cowtown Coliseum hosts the Stockyards Championship Rodeo. 8 p.m. Reserved box seats $12.50, VIP $10.50, Gen. Ad. $9, Seniors 60+ $7.50 & children 3-12, $5.50. 121 E. Exchange Ave., 817-625-1025, www.cowtowncoliseum.com.

3-12 Circle Theater's cast performs Ed Graczyk's Come Back to the 5 & Dime Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean. In the midst of an oppressive drought, the James Dean fan club reunites in McCarthy, Texas's dime store for the twentieth anniversary of their idol's death. When a mysterious stranger arrives to stir up dusty memories, tempers and temperatures soar as everyone tries to hold fast to weathered ideals. Tickets $10. Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m. & Sun. 2 p.m. In Sundance Sq., 230 W. 4th St., 817-877-3040, www.circletheatre.com.

3-19 Bass Performance Hall presents the Texas Ballet Theater & the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra as they perform Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker. Follow young Clara into a magical world where Christmas tress grow to 40 ft., house mice battle toy soldiers and snowflakes really dance. Choreographed by artistic director, Ben Stevenson. Tickets $16-$69. Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m., Sat. & Sun. 2 p.m. with special performances Thurs. the 16th and Sun. the 19th at 7 p.m. Corner of 4th & Calhoun Sts., 1-877-212-4280, www.texasballettheater.org.

4 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees, ESPN 103.3 FM Backpack Night. The first 2,000 kids through the gates will receive a Brahmas backpack courtesy of ESPN 103.3 FM. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10-$25. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

4 Billy Bob's Texas-Darryl Worley, 10:30 p.m., $8.75 & $14.75. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

4 The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District hosts its 5th annual "Christmas in the Stockyards." This is a fun-filled day centered on western heritage activities that will entertain and educate the entire family. Activities include the Fort Worth Herd's "Cow Kid Round-up" and "Cattle Drive Classroom," armadillo races, cowboy poetry, live music, line dancing, equestrian riding demonstrations, a petting zoo, gunfight shows, fabulous vendors and even chicken roping for the little ones. The Fort Worth Zoo will introduce some unique animals on stage at 2 p.m., and the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History will conduct hands-on science experiments for children throughout the day. The Stockyards Christmas Parade follows the 4 p.m. herd drive. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 130 E. Exchange Ave., 817-625-9715, www.stockyardsstation.com.

4-5, 11-12 Waxahachie, TX-The annual Candlelight Christmas Home Tour features four homes each weekend decorated in their holiday finery. 2 a.m.-8 p.m. Tickets $15 per weekend and can be purchased at the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce, Ellis County Museum and at the homes on tour on the day of the event. Downtown Waxahachie, 972-937-2390, www.waxahachiechamber.com.

4,5,11,12,18,19 Grapevine, TX-The Grapevine Vintage Railroad will be become "The Polar Express." Chris Van Allsburg's story will be read on the hour-long trip to children in their PJs. Carol singing and Santa will also be part of the ride. On-line tickets are sold out, but a limited number of tickets will be available beginning at 9 a.m. on each Saturday and Sunday morning for the trips scheduled for that particular day. 707 S. Main St. Call 817-410-3123 or visit www.gvrr.com for more information.

5 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees, Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 3 p.m., $10-$25, 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

6 & 7 The Fort Worth Symphony along with Southwestern Seminary's Oratorio Chorus performs Handel's Messiah (1741) at Bass Performance Hall. The holiday season would not be complete without performances of this musical composition of Jesus' birth, life, suffering, crucifixion and resurrection. Tickets $13-$52. 7:30 p.m. Corner of 4th & Calhoun Sts., 817-665-6000, www.fwsymphony.org.

8-April 3 "Of Birds and Texas," the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History's collection of bird paintings by Scott and Stuart Gentling, returns to the Museum. The 40 original watercolor paintings of Texas birds that inhabit the state for all or part of the year marks the first time all the paintings have been displayed together since 1992. The works are the result of an unusual collaboration by the Gentlings, Fort Worth artists and twin brothers, who spent more than eight years creating the paintings for their book, Of Birds and Texas. Gen. Ad.$7, seniors 60+ & children 3-12, $6. Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sun. 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 1501 Montgomery St., 817-255-9300, www.fortworthmuseum.org.

10 Billy Bob's Texas-Roger Creager & Eleven Hundred Springs, 10:30 p.m., $8 & $11. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

11 Billy Bob's Texas-Josh Gracin, 10:30 p.m., $8.75 & $14.75. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

11 Grapevine, TX-Do your holiday shopping in historic downtown Grapevine on Red Ribbon Day. Members of Grapevine's Historic Downtown Association will donate a percentage of their day's sales to the AIDS Outreach Center in Fort Worth to support programs for children and youth infected or affected by AIDS. Shoppers can identify participating merchants by the red ribbons that are displayed in their store windows. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Downtown Grapevine, 800-457-6338, www.grapevinetexasusa.com.

12 Billy Bob's Texas-The Wolf's 12 Man Jam, 10:30 p.m., call for ticket prices. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

12-Feb. 6 One of the most popular works in the Modern's collection, Ruckus Rodeo, by New York artist Red Grooms, will be installed in the Museum's new building for the first time, coinciding with the 2005 Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show Show and Rodeo. Ruckus Rodeo is an immense work made up of painted two-dimensional surfaces and sculptural three-dimensional figures that re-create the Fort Worth rodeo. Grooms has referred to this work as a "sculpto-pictorama." Sculpture wire, canvas, burlap, acrylic paint, and a fiberglass compound called celastic were used to construct Ruckus Rodeo's larger-than-life, three-dimensional caricatures, which include the rodeo queen and her steed, a bucking bronc, playful rodeo clowns, and a giant yellow bull named Butter. Tues., Wed., Thurs., Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Fri. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. & Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Mon. and major holidays. Gen. Ad. $6, seniors (60+) & students with ID, $4, children 12 and under, free. Free Wednesdays and first Sunday of every month. 3200 Darnell St., 817-738-9215, www.themodern.org.

14 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs. Join the FWISD fourth graders when the Brahmas host their 2nd annual "Cool School Game." Join the FWISD fourth graders as the Brahmas battle the Mudbugs. 10:30 a.m. Tickets $10-$25. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

17 Billy Bob's Texas-Lost Trailers / Phil Pritchett, 10:30 p.m., $8 & $11. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

17 & 18 Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District-Cowtown Coliseum hosts the SCRA Buckle Series Rodeo Finals. 8 p.m. Reserved box seats $12.50, VIP $10.50, Gen. Ad. $9, Seniors 60+ $7.50 & children 3-12, $5.50. 121 E. Exchange Ave. 817-625-1025, www.cowtowncoliseum.com.

18 Irving, TX-Irving Arts Center's Carpenter Performance Hall hosts "The Serenity of the Season" performed by the Las Colinas Symphony Orchestra. 8 p.m. 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd. 972-252.7558 or www.irvingartscenter.com.

18 Billy Bob's Texas-Chris Cagle, 10:30 p.m., $8.75 & $16.75. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

19 Kimbell Art Museum's film series screens George Stubbs: The Most Original and Searching of All Animal Painters (1984, 26 min.), and Sense and Sensation: English Culture in the Eighteenth Century (2002, 51 min.) In conjunction with the Stubbs exhibition. 2 p.m. in the Museum auditorium, free admission.

20 Rose Marine Theater presents The Jazz Monsters of the Metroplex, "Jazzy Christmas Music," performed by the 20 piece Jazz Monster Big Band. Celebrate the holidays to a resounding jazz beat. 7:30 p.m. Gen. Ad. $10, youths under 18, $5. 1440 N. Main St., 817-624-8333, www.jazzmonsters.com.

21 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Austin Ice Bats. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10-$25. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

21-26 Casa Mañana presents A Tuna Christmas at Bass Performance Hall. A Tuna Christmas is the hilarious sequel to the hit comedy, Greater Tuna, starring Tony Award-nominated Joe Sears and Jaston Williams. Sears and Williams perform multiple roles in the Tuna plays. This time, it's 24 hours before Christmas and the delightfully eccentric characters are attempting to cope with seasonal traumas such as a disaster prone cast's production of A Christmas Carol, and a yard-decorating contest that's being sabotaged by a mysterious Christmas phantom. This show is suitable for most audiences. $20-$59, Tue., Wed., Thurs., 8 p.m. & Sun. 2 & 7 p.m. Corner of 4th & Calhoun Sts., 817-212-4280, www.basshall.com.

23 Billy Bob's Texas-Pat Green, 10:30 p.m., call for ticket prices. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

23 The 2nd Annual PlainsCapital Fort Worth Bowl comes to the 44,008 seat Amon Carter Stadium. The teams will be announced after the Big 12 Football Championship and will feature teams from the Big 12 and Conference USA. ESPN will televise the game. Tickets $25-$60. 5:30 p.m. Exit University Dr. off of I-30 and take a right onto W. Cantey Rd. 817-810-0012, www.fwbowl.com.

25 Billy Bob's Texas-Jack Ingram, 10:30 p.m., $8.75 & $12.75. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

25 Grapevine, TX-Christmas Champagne Day brunch begins a new tradition at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Families will be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the holidays in the magnificent Texas Ballroom. A scrumptious brunch featuring ten different food stations allow guests to enjoy such items such as an Array of Fabulous Salads; Veal Filled with Rosemary, Pine nuts, and Sun Dried Cherries Herb Crusted Prime Rib of Beef, Eggs Benedict with Toasted English muffin, Canadian bacon, Creamy Hollandaise Sauce; Raspberry Orange Glazed Pork Loin, Braised Leek, Wild Mushroom Ragout and distinctive signature holiday sweets. A children's food table will also be offered. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with seating every half hour. Gen. Ad. $63, seniors $47.50 & children 7-12, $25. Children under 6 eat free. Included are self parking and a 21% service charge and 7.2% sales tax. All charges to be prepaid by credit card at time of reservation. Located in the Texas Ballroom. Make reservations by calling 817-778-2000. 1501 Grapevine Trail, www.gaylordhotels.com.

25 & Jan. 1 Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District-Cowtown Coliseum hosts the Christmas Day and New Year's Day Stockyards Championship Rodeo. 8 p.m. Reserved box seats $12.50, VIP $10.50, Gen. Ad. $9, Seniors 60+ $7.50 & children 3-12, $5.50. 121 E. Exchange Ave. 817-625-1025, www.cowtowncoliseum.com.

27-28 The Bass Performance Hall hosts the classic, A Christmas Carol, to Fort Worth. Originally subtitled A Ghost Story of Christmas," Charles Dickens' beloved fable springs to vibrant, swirling life in this stage version from the Nebraska Theatre Caravan. With a colorful Old London atmosphere and unforgettable characters such as Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, Ebenezer Scrooge and some ghostly night visitors, this music-filled production will delight the entire family. $19.50-$34.50, 7:30 p.m. with a matinee at 2 p.m. on the 28th. Corner of 4th & Calhoun Sts., 817-212-4280, www.basshall.com.

28 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Oklahoma City Blazers. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10-$25. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

30 Fort Worth Brahmas Hockey vs. Wichita Thunder. 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10-$25. Fort Worth Convention Center, 1111 Houston St., 817-336-4423 or www.Brahmas.com.

31 Billy Bob's Texas-Tracy Lawrence, 10:30 p.m., $12 & $26. 2520 Rodeo Plaza, 817-624-7117, www.billybobstexas.com.

31 Grapevine, TX-New Year's Eve will be brought to a new level of food, excitement and dancing at the Gaylord Texan Resort. The party begins with a masterful buffet, "Basix" a high energy dance band from Las Vegas, champagne toast at midnight and party favors. Babysitting services will be available for children 3-13 years of age. 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Cost: $150 per person includes entertainment, buffet dining, self parking, party favors, Champagne toast, 4 drinks, taxes and service charge. Located in the Texas Ballroom. Make reservations by calling 817-778-2000. 1501 Grapevine Trail, www.gaylordhotels.com.

31 Bass Performance Hall helps ring in the New Year with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra's "New York New Year's Eve." Gershwin pianist Kevin Cole is featured this year. Enjoy timeless classics for piano and orchestra including "Rhapsody in Blue" plus music that celebrates New York led by longtime Boston Symphony Pops conductor James Orent. After the concert hop on stage and dance the night away with a swing orchestra! Party tickets are sold separately and include hors d'oeuvres, dancing, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight! 8 p.m. Concert tickets $29-80. Party tickets are sold separately and include dancing on stage, hors d'oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight-$100 each. Corner of 4th & Calhoun Sts., 817-665-6000, www.fwsymphony.org.

Jan. 1 Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District-Cowtown Coliseum hosts Pawnee Bill's Wild West Show. Family friendly entertainment. 2:30 & 4:30 p.m. Box seats $10.50, Gen. Ad. $8, Seniors 60+ $6.50 & children 3-12, $4.50. 121 E. Exchange Ave. 817-625-1025, www.cowtowncoliseum.com.

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