Get Out: The Holidays Are Here!

The weekend is almost here, and there are lots of fun, family-friendly events around Westlake. Check out our picks for activities you don't want to miss, and feel free to share your weekend plans in the comments!

Where/When: / Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m.

Why Go: Spread some holiday cheer and give back local folks in need on Saturday at Radio Disney's first Festival of Giving.

The station is bringing together several local charities to make it easy for Cleveland area kids and families to give back this holiday season. Bring your donation and enjoy music, games, prizes, entertainment and more. 

The Salvation Army, The Up Side of Downs of Greater Cleveland, Achievement Centers for Children, Purrfect Companions Cat Sanctuary, Berea Children’s Home and Family Services, Toys for Tots, The Hunger Network of Greater Cleveland and Family Promise of Greater Cleveland will all be on site to take donations for those who need some extra help this holiday season.

Where/When: / Friday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Why Go: Take the kids down to the Rec Center to blow off some of that holiday excitement! You can jump in the bounce house, glide down the inflatable slide, get a glitter tattoo or visit the balloon clown. Or, take a dip in one of the four pools to the sounds of DJ Easy, try your hand at a holiday craft, watch a video or play a board game.

Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required by calling 440-808-5700.

This family program is free for all member families. All children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

SANTA STROLL & AVON TREE LIGHTING

Where/When: French Creek District to , 37080 Detroit Rd. / Saturday, 4:30 to 6 p.m.

Follow Santa's horse-drawn sleigh and sing along with the carolers before Kris Kringle lights the Christmas tree. The stroll begins in the , where you can grab a goody bag. At 5 p.m., the stroll to the French Creek Gazebo will start, along with the holiday music! Santa flips the switch at 5:30 p.m.

Santa will head to Avon Isle at 6 p.m., where he'll meet with kids. There will also be a Christmas craft, refreshments, songs from the Skylarks and the Rail Blazers model train exhibit. Best of all, it's free!

BAY VILLAGE EARLY CHILDHOOD PTA SANTA SHOP

Where/When: Bay United Methodist Church / Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Why Go: Kids can get a start on their holiday shopping (without mom and dad around) at the Santa Shop on Saturday. Gifts for women, men, teachers, friends and even babies and pets will all be available. The elf helpers will be on hand to help kids with their shopping, and everything is in the 50-cent to $5 price range.

Parents and guardians can take a break in the Sweet Shop, and maybe even pick up some treats!

SHOPS OF DOWNTOWN RIVER HOLIDAY WALK

Where/When: Downtown Rocky River / Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Why Go: Watch artists create more than 20 ice sculptures, visit with Santa, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride or listen to the strolling carolers. Area stores will have special sales, and there will even be storytelling for the kids!