Priority list includes a family New Year welcoming, winter solstice celebration, more

The Blue Side

At the 2012 Indy Jazz Fest, Gordon Bonham and Tad Robinson led a band featuring some of Indy’s strongest musicians for a show called “The Blue Side.” Missed it? Well, you’re in luck. That show is getting an encore at the Jazz Kitchen and, in addition to Bonham and Robinson, the talent includes Kenny Phelps on drums, Rob Dixon on saxophone, Kevin Anker on organ, and Reggie Bishop on keyboards. Dec. 27  The Jazz Kitchen Details

Family New Year’s Eve

The night ends early with an 8 p.m. balloon drop for this family-focused early evening including arts and crafts projects, face-painting, stilt walkers, games, and more. Dec. 31  Indiana State Museum  Details

Winter Solstice

Ice sculpturing, treats by the fire (including offerings from the General American Donut Co.), and a visit to dressed-up Lily House are part of this indoor/outdoor event. Visitors are encouraged to bring a new toy or non-perishable food items to donate to Mid-North Food Pantry. Dec. 22 Indianapolis Museum of Art Details

Also

Straight No Chaser brings its 20^th anniversary tour to the Murat Dec. 21-23.

The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra performs Handel’s “Messiah” at the Palladium Dec. 22.

Speakeasy: A Storytelling Show” is a monthly series at the White Rabbit Cabaret. The theme for the Dec. 21 show: “Christmas Time is Here”

The Indy Fringe Building hosts Julie Lyn Barber and Dave Ruark in “Christmas Through the Ages” Dec. 23 as well as a  free Christmas Eve gathering with carols and cookies Dec. 24.