Events happening around Central Massachusetts in December 2016.

1. The Nutcracker

Treat yourself to a magical experience that summons joy and raises your holiday spirit. Whether continuing a cherished tradition or discovering the wonder of this holiday classic for the first time, Dance Prism’s The Nutcracker is sure to leave you with a sense of enchantment and treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

1 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11; Mechanics Hall, 321 Main St., Worcester; $20-$26; mechanicshall.org.

2. Kinky Boots

Cindy Lauper’s Kinky Boots celebrates the friendships we discover and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. Inspired by a true story, Kinky Boots tells the story of a Charlie Price, the owner of a men’s shoe factory; a drag queen named Lola; and some high-heeled boots that take Charlie from Northampton, England, to the catwalks of Milan.

Various times, Nov. 30-Dec. 4; Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts, 2 Southbridge St., Worcester; $49-$79; thehanovertheatre.org.

3. Winter Reimagined

Experience the wonder that is Winter Reimagined at Tower Hill Botanic Gardens. The annual fundraiser ups its game every year, so if you’ve seen it before, you still haven’t seen it. Enjoy the glimmering light displays, gaze at the decorated trees, stop by the fire pits, or perhaps listen to live music while your child goes on a scavenger hunt.

Nov. 25-Jan 8; Tower Hill Botanic Garden, 11 French Drive, Boylston; $7-$12, free for members and children 5 and younger; towerhillbg.org.

4. Toys for Tots

Bring some joy to others this holiday seasons by participating in the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots Program. There are many ways to provide hope and happiness to children in need – donate a new, unwrapped toy; become a drop location; make a monetary donation; host an event to benefit the organization; or even volunteer.

Last day for donations is Dec. 16; for drop sites or ways to get involved, visit worcester-ma.toysfortots.org.