Beantown Swing Orchestra, Toy Drive, and More This Weekend in Beverly

It's officially the weekend, Beverly. Not sure how you're going to spend it?

Here's a look at some of the events going on in and around town. Check our calendar for more, and if there's something we missed, be sure to add it.

Beantown Swing Orchestra

• When: Saturday, Dec. 8. Family show runs 4-5 p.m., Night show runs 8-9 p.m.
• Where: Cabot Street Cinema
• What: Join American Idol finalist John Stevens, semifinalist Jen Hirsh, and vocalist Laura Brunner as the 24-piece Beantown Swing Orchestra performs its own arrangements of traditional and original holiday songs. A special one-hour matinee precedes the evening show and is a great opportunity to take the whole family for some fun, kid-friendly songs as well as holiday favorites. Both shows will also feature a special appearance by the Endicott Singers of Endicott College.

Beyond the Gardens: Ellery Sedgwick's Yuletide Reception

• When: Friday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m.
• Where: Long Hill Beverly
• What: The Yuletide Reception will be dedicated to literary readings about the holiday from a variety of traditions. Please join us in the Sedgwick parlor for this special evening filled with holiday cheer, evergreens, good food, fine drink and a warm fire.  Beverages and local cusine will be served.

Beverly Police Christmas Toy Drive

• When: Saturday, Dec. 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Where: North Beverly Shopping Plaza
• What: The Beverly Police Department and the Beverly Police Relief Association will be sponsoring its fifteenth annual “Christmas Toy Drive.” Please drop off a new unopened and unwrapped toy or game for a needy child. All of the toys that are collected will be distributed to needy families in the Beverly area.

Mingo Gallery's First Annual Small Works Show

• When: Saturday, Dec. 8, 5-8 p.m.
• Where: Mingo Gallery
• What: We're loading up our walls with work from over 30 incredible artists so you can smother your loved ones with original art work for the holidays! Cash and carry, get 'em while they're hot, give the gift of original art, or treat yourself!  You will be a local hero for supporting artists and for this special show artists receive 100% of their sales, that's right - we are not taking a commission as a thank you to our lo...vely artists!  Small. Affordable. Awesome. The show will be up the whole month of December.

Retreat from Holiday Stress

• When: Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m.
• Where: The Healing Center
• What: Is the busyness getting to you?  Need a break from parties, shopping, and obligations?  Have you been sick and tired a lot this fall and need some TLC? We can help you relax, rejuvenate and feel like a whole new you. We have packages available on Saturday December 8 and Sunday December 9  at a great price.  One-on-one attention from our talented practitioners to help you unwind and relax for a few hours, all for under $100.