Weekend Planner: Book Discussions, Holiday Basketball Tournament, Christmas Play

Discussion by Author Brenda K. Stewart

When: Saturday, Dec. 15, 11 a.m.-12 p.m

Where: Redan-Trotti Library, 1569 Wellborn Rd., Lithonia

Who's this for: Those interested in an author discussion.

Why go: Hear Stewart speak about "The Gift," her book of poems and prayers inspired by scripture. She'll also answer questions about the publishing process.

How much: free

Book Discussion: "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks"

When: Saturday, Dec. 15, 2-3 p.m.

Where: Hairston Crossing Library, 4911 Redan Rd., Stone Mountain

Who's this for: Readers of the book and those who want to talk about it.

Why go: Talk with others about this fascinating story.

How much: free

"Christmas Wishes" Play

When: Through December 23 (check matinee, evening and morning show times).

Where: ART Station, 5384 Manor Dr, Stone Mountain

Who's this for: Those who love the theater and a good Christmas story.

Why go: Support the local arts, enjoy original songs and this story line (from ART Station's website): Five strangers are stranded in a small-town diner on a blustery Christmas Eve. While waiting for miracles, they discover they have more in common that they could ever have imagined.

DeKalb County School District Holiday Basketball Tournament

When: Saturday, December 15 (for the complete first round schedule, click here)

Where: Arabia Mountain High School in Lithonia and Clarkston High School (hosts)

Who's this for: Everyone, especially high school basketball fans or alums.

Why go: See your favorite high school teams in action.

How much: $5 for adults and children; senior adults $3.

Davidson-Arabia Nature Preserve Hikes with Ranger Robby

When: Sunday, Dec.16, 8-10 a.m.

Where: Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, 3787 Klondike Road, Lithonia, 30038.

Who's this for: Those who can take the 3-6 mile hike.

Why go: A fresh morning hike seems like a great way to start off the week -- and it's free! On this 3-6 mile hike, you'll learn about natural and cultural history, geology, forestry and much more.

Note:Wear long pants, close-toed shoes, bring water, and meet at the Nature Center on Klondike Road at 8 a.m.

Phone: 770-848-3060; Email: mailto:rlastrove@dekalbcountyga.gov

Find out the details and contact information about Ranger Robby hikes at Davidson-Arabia Nature Preserve.

Bagpiper at Sundown

When: Saturday, Dec.15

Where: Stone Mountain Village Gazebo, next to the train depot, center of town

Who's this for: Everyone

Why go: Come for the free performance of this new tradition in the City of Stone Mountain on Saturday "and remember someone who 'shall not be forgotten' or just pause for a little quiet reflection to the beautiful and haunting sounds of a lone bag-piper," organizers say. The piper will play for 30 minutes and end his performance with "Amazing Grace".

Want to commemorate someone specific? Give a donation of $25 or more, and you can. The person's name will be announced by the piper before the performance.

Stone Mountain Park Christmas

When: Through January 1 (select dates)

Where: Stone Mountain Park

Who's this for: Everyone

Why go: If you're looking to usher in the holiday season, this is a dazzling way.

How much: You must buy a Christmas Adventure Pass, Snow Mountain & Christmas Combo Pass, or Mountain Membership for the Stone Mountain Park Christmas activities (Learn about Stone Mountain Park pass pricing here).

Snow Mountain & Christmas Combo Family Value Pass is $199 for a family of four, plus tax, and includes meal tickets, hot chocolate and more.

Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park

When: Through Feb. 18

Where: Stone Mountain Park

Who's this for: Everyone

Why go: Dash through the snow!

How much: A Snow Mountain Pass is $27 (plus tax) for adults and children.

See above for Snow Mountain & Christmas Combo Family pass pricing.

See also: Photos & Video of Snow Mountain and Stone Mountain Park Christmas