Do This!

The "Holiday Garden Railway Display," presented by Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, offers twinkling lights and holiday decor. The quarter-mile track features seven loops and tunnels with 15 rail lines and two cable cars, nine bridges (including a trestle bridge overpass), and model trains decorated for the holidays. Family photos also are available at Morris Arboretum, 100 Northwestern Ave. Admission: $14, $12 for seniors, $7 for children. Information: 215-247-5777, morrisarboretum.org

It's almost time for the big parade, but you can get started early with the MummersFest Experience. This is a "behind the scenes" look at preparations. Tours will be available, and visitors can make and take crafts, try on costumes, watch rehearsals, and more. This event is at the Convention Center, 1101 Arch St. Admission is $4. Information: 215-418-4700,

» READ MORE: www.fancybrigade.com

The winter pastimes of former residents of the Hagley Museum and Library will be celebrated at special Saturday and Sunday brunches through Jan. 2 in Wilmington. The museum is open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with buses to the exhibit "Christmas at Hagley." This event is closed Christmas. Admission: $11, $9 for seniors and students, $4 for ages 6 to 14, and free for ages 5 and younger. Prices vary for the brunch at the Belin House Organiz Cafe of Hagley, Route 141, Wilmington. Information: 302-658-2400,

» READ MORE: www.hagley.org

This year's production of

George Balanchine's The Nutcracker,

presented by the Pennsylvania Ballet at the Academy of Music, will be performed Friday and Sunday. This enduring tradition is in its 42d year, but the work is complemented this season by the Philadelphia Boys Choir. Follow the adventures of Marie and her Prince as they battle the evil Mouse King and travel to the magnificent Land of the Sweets, where the graceful Sugarplum Fairy reigns. The show is at 240 S. Broad St. Tickets: $30-139. Information: 215-893-1999.

Sand, stone, "cool" movies, and more are promised by Fairmount Water Works. The Interpretative Center's Sunday movie matinee is

Arctic Tale

. This family-friendly documentary narrates the life cycles of a mother walrus and her calf and a polar bear and her cubs as they fight to survive their harsh surroundings. Enjoy this 90-minute documentary for free at 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. at 1 Boathouse Row. Information: 215-236-9000,

» READ MORE: www.fairmountwaterworks.org