Weekend Planner: 5 Holiday Happenings Around Town

Nothing's more magical than the holiday season, so take some time off from the hectic grind and find moments to make memories.

Here's a list of five fun things for you and your family to do around Riverhead this weekend that will make the holiday season sparkle.

1) Go to a bonfire: The 13th Annual Bonfire and Holiday Celebration takes place on the Peconic Riverfront from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday.

According to Riverhead Town Councilman Jim Wooten, the event, which takes place behind the old Sears building, features candy canes, cookies, a gingerbread house, holiday photos, music -- and Santa's arrival by boat at 5 pm.

2) See some model trains: The Railroad Museum of Long Island hosts a holiday open house, Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 a.m. till 3 p.m. Free; the event features refreshments and a visit from Santa at noon, as well as presents for good boys and girls and the chance to win a Lionel Polar Express, "O" gauge toy train set.

3) Cheer for the kids: The Riverhead High School Blue Masques present "A Christmas Carol," Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. in the Riverhead High School Auditorium. Ticket cost $8 advance/$10.00 the door, senior citizens, $5.

And McGann-Mercy High School presents "You Can't Take It With You," Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets are $8 per person and will be sold at the door. For more information, contact 631.727.5900, ext. 10.

4) Have breakfast with Santa: The North Shore Christian Church on Kroemer Avenue presents a free breakfast with Santa. Enjoy pancakes and bring your Christmas lists and cameras for a chance to pose with St. Nick. 9 a.m. till noon.

5) Head to a holiday craft fair: A holiday mini craft fair fundraiser will be held at Riverhead High School on Saturday from 11 a.m. till 3 p.m. Small handmade crafts will be sold, including chocolate lollipops, chocolate-covered pretzel rods, poinsetta pens, picture frames, keepsake boxes and dishes, and holiday ornaments. Also on tap will be a face painting table. The high school photo club will be selling framed photos and offering $8 digital photos with Santa.