Huffington Post film critic Jackie K. Cooper and harpist Betsy Fitzgerald join us to talk about fun things to do in Middle Georgia over the weekend and beyond.

Betsy's picks for Dec. 12:

The Nutcracker, presented by Nutcracker of Middle Georgia, December 11-15, 2013

Perhaps one of the most notable holiday events in Central Georgia is the annual performance of the classic ballet The Nutcracker, performed in the glorious Grand Opera House in Macon. This year marks the 28th year the magical production comes to life, complete with dancing mice, soldiers, and flowers.

Of course, you will not want to miss the snow falling on stage during my most favorite dance and musical scenes. This is the perfect holiday event to dress up the family and enjoy this timeless holiday classic. Make sure you get your tickets early as each year many, if not all, performances are sold out by the performance day.

The Nutcracker, The Grand Opera House, 651 Mulberry Street, Dec 11: 7:30 p.m.; Dec 12: 7:30 p.m.; Dec 13: 7:30 p.m.; Dec 14: 2:30 pm; Dec 14: 7:30 p.m.; Dec 15: 2:30 p.m,. call 478-301-5470 for tickets.

A Christmas Gala at The Hay House, December 18, 2013

W. Aubrey Newby and his decorating committee outdid themselves this year when they took on the daunting task of decorating the Hay House, one of the grandest architecture pieces in the south. Although the staff welcomes visitors throughout the season for tours, special Christmas luncheons and other events, the Christmas Gala is a perfect event for community members to dress up and enjoy the splendid decorations and beauty of the house. This year’s event features special performances from members of Theatre Macon as guests sip festive drinks and nibble on tasty hors d'oeuvres. It is rumored that you may hear one of your favorite selections from Theatre Macon’s current production of The Sound Of Music.

A Christmas Gala, December 18, 2013, Hay House, 934 Georgia Avenue, Macon, 7:00 p.m., $20 per person, $30 per couple, register online, or call 478-742-8155 for reservations.

--Betsy

Jackie's picks for Dec. 12:

Wellston Winds Concert

Wind ensemble made up of band directors, music teachers, retired Air Force musicians, December 15 at 3 p.m., Houston High School auditorium, admission is free.

Guests are: Barbershop quartet - Macon Harmony; Middle School Tuba all stars - 12 members, lasts about an hour.

And come see me, signing copies of my new memoir “Memory’s Mist” at Barnes and Noble Riverside Plaza, Macon, Georgia - December 12, 6 to 8 PM.

--Jackie

Tags: Adam Ragusea, Betsy Fitzgerald, Jackie K. Cooper, The Grand Opera House, The Nutcracker