Weekend Roundup

Find the best San Diego things to do this weekend

DANCE
The Nutcracker

Dec. 21-23. From the beginning live overture by the San Diego Symphony to the warm and happy finale, delight in this classic holiday story performed by premier dancers from the California Ballet. Meet the case and indulge in some sweet holiday treats at a post-performance Sugar Plum Party, which will be held after matinee performances. San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Avenue, San Diego. 619.570.1100. www.sandiegotheatres.org

SPORTS
Poinsettia Bowl 

Dec. 21. Following their 44-0 victory over the New Mexico State Aggies to clinch a Western Athletic Conference Championship, Louisiana Tech will face off against the TCU Horned Frogs in the 2011 Poinsettia Bowl. The Poinsettia Bowl generates tourism and economic benefit for San Diego and has an annual economic impact of over $11 million on the community. The game kicks off at 5 p.m. Qualcomm Stadium, 9449 Friars Road. 619.283.5808. www.poinsettiabowl.com 

MUSIC
A Cash’d Out Christmas
Dec. 23. A Cash’d Out Christmas is the ultimate Johnny Cash tribute, Christmas style! Cash’d Out is the only tribute band endorsed by and linked to the official Johnny Cash website. Cash’d Out live shows respectfully and lovingly reference the late, great Man in Black’s early era combined with the energy of the classic multi platinum selling live recordings from Folsom Prison and San Quentin. The Palominos and DJ Gonzo perform as opening acts. Doors at 8:30 p.m. Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave, Solana Beach. 858.481.8140. www.bellyup.com

Dave Koz
Dec. 23. Dave Koz and friends Rick Braun, Jonathan Butlerand and Candy Dulfer perform their contemporary hits plus jazzy holiday tunes. Playing together and in solo pieces, these world-class musicians are not to be missed. Balboa Theatre 868 Fourth Ave. 619.570.1100. www.sandiegotheatres.org

EVENTS
Holiday Snow Days at Legoland
Through Dec. 31. Visit the world’s largest lego Christmas tree and a life-sized lego Santa perfect for a last minute holiday photo. Fun Town is brimming with holiday cheer and festive entertainment from the Brickettes. Children of all ages will enjoy Legoland’s 60 rides and attractions while frolicking in real snow in Southern California. The park has everything that’s merry, including twinkling lights and bright decorations to foster your holiday spirit. Legoland, 1 Legoland Drive, Carlsbad. 760.918.5346. www.legoland.com

THEATRE
An American Christmas 

Through Dec. 24. One of the most unique theater experience in the nation, An American Christmas transports you back 100 years for a Christmas celebration unlike any you’ve ever experienced. The evening is led by the Marshall family, played by a full cast of versatile performers who never miss a beat. They welcome each guest and fill the evening with music, dance, song, and laughter. Enjoy the performance with a delicious five-course Christmas meal in a sumptuous setting you’ll never forget. Lambs Players Theatre at Hotel Del Coronado, 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado. 619.437.6000. www.lambsplayers.org

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! 

Through Dec. 31. Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is a wonderful, whimsical musical based upon the classic Dr. Seuss book of the same name. Back for its 14th year, the family favorite features the songs “This Time of Year,” “Santa for a Day” and the delightful carol “Fah Who Doraze,” Celebrate the holidays as the Old Globe Theatre is once again transformed into the snow-covered Whoville, right down to the last can of Who-hash. Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.23.GLOBE. www.oldglobe.org

Some Lovers 

Through Dec. 31. Tony Award winner Steven Sater, of Spring Awakening fame, joins forces with music legend Burt Bacharach for a world premiere musical inspired by the classic O. Henry tale “The Gift of the Magi.” On Christmas Eve, estranged lovers Molly and Ben are haunted by visions from long ago. Over the course of one unforgettable night, past and present collide, and the ghosts of their former selves help them find forgiveness and fall in love again. This modern love story contains strong language.  White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, 619.23.GLOBE. www.oldglobe.org

SPECIAL EVENTS
Garden of Lights
Through Dec. 23. The San Diego Botanic Garden is transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland with over 100,000 sparkling lights to create a magical holiday experience. Leave the hustle and bustle of the malls behind and enjoy a relaxing evening strolling through the lighted grounds and see the Poinsettia Garden, a special December treat. Live music fills the air nightly from 6-8 p.m. Open nightly from 5-9 p.m. 230 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas. 760.436.3036. www.sdbgarden.org/lights.htm