Cosmos’s Holiday Season Best Bets for 2012

Shirley writes: Dear Cosmos, from one holiday hound to another, how can my family make the most of this season in Balboa Park?

Cosmos responds: Though Balboa Park December Nights, on December 7 & 8 this year, is a given for any true holiday-loving hound, that still leaves over a month’s worth of open dates to fill with some form of holiday cheer. Thankfully, a Santa’s-bag full of other yuletide treats awaits those who want to end 2012 with a bang!

Poinsettia Display: Like a warm puppy on Christmas morning, local residents know they can count on a spectacular display of hundreds of Poinsettia plants in the Botanical Building each and every year.

Lego Train Exhibit: Another popular tradition for pups of all ages, this elaborate cityscape built with colorful plastic bricks at the Model Railroad Museum will put a smile on any Grinch’s face.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Speaking of the Grinch, the one and only comes to life for a 15th-consecutive year at the Old Globe Theater in this musical extravaganza.

The Nutcracker: Dancing toy soldiers and other tutu-toting critters hit the stage once again in the San Diego Civic Youth Ballet’s annual presentation of this classical ballet.

Puppet Theater: Those with a lot of newly weaned pups in their brood will definitely want to keep an eye on the weekly rotation of holiday-themed shows at the Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater.

As I realize that may only provide you with a week’s worth of activities at best, be sure to bookmark this blogspace for further coverage of the Park’s busy holiday season.