Twisted Nutcracker: Backstage Academy of Dance will present “Twisted Nutcracker” with shows at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 20 and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Dec. 21 at the Turlock Community Theatre. All shows are followed by a Sugar Plum Party, where guests can mingle and take pictures with the cast while eating a few delicious treats. For tickets, call 209-667-8511.

Family Friday: The Carnegie Arts Center will host a holiday pajama party themed Family Friday event from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 20. Families can enjoy warm cocoa and sing Christmas carols along with the Turlock Sunshine Strummers, as they decorate their own graham cracker houses. This is a free event. The Carnegie is located at 250 N. Broadway in Turlock.

Christmas Market: Market Turlock is bringing a unique Christmas experience to downtown over the next two weekends, with more than 75 vendors, musicians, ballet dancers, and Jolly Ol’ St. Nick set to get in on the fun. The Christmas on Main Street market will be held 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 21 and 22 on Main Street in Turlock, between Broadway and First Street. Kids of all ages can have their photo taken with Santa Claus from  10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Dec. 22.

All is Calm: The Gallo Center Repertory Company will bring back a holiday favorite, “All is Calm,” based on a historic event that brought peace in the midst of war. An a cappella chorale, “All Is Calm” is the remarkable true story in the words and songs of the men who lived it. The musical is written by Peter Rothstein, with vocal arrangements by Erick Lichte and Timothy C. Takach. “All is Calm” will be at the Gallo at 7:30p.m. Dec. 20 and 3 p.m. Dec. 21 and 22.

Christmas at the State: The State Theatre in downtown Modesto is showing a host of holiday favorite movies Dec. 20-22. Shows include “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” and “Elf.” For showtimes, visit thestate.org or call 209-527-4697.