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Want to be among the first to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season? Here’s a roundup of festivities scheduled across Greater Des Moines that are sure to put you in a chestnut-roasting mood.

East Village Holiday Promenade

Friday, Nov. 21, 5 to 9 p.m.,

vicinity of East Fifth and Locust streets.

Stores will be open late for early holiday shoppers, and many will have in-store entertainment, refreshments, guest artists and merchandise specials. Other special events include:

• The State Historical Building, 600 E. Locust St., will host “Chili for Charity” from 5 to 8 p.m. Proceeds from the $5 chili dinner with all the fixings will benefit Embrace Iowa: 2008 Iowa Disaster Fund;

• Weather permitting, Brenton Skating Plaza will open for the season with public skating from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Rock the River from 8 to 11 p.m.;

• Free horse and carriage rides, courtesy of e300 Development, will loop East Locust Street and East Grand Avenue; pickup is on the east side of City Hall at 400 Robert D. Ray Drive.

Free concert

Jordan Creek Town Center, West Des Moines

Friday, Nov. 21, 6:30 p.m.

The Blenders, a nationally renowned a capella group, will kick off the night with a free concert in the amphitheater located on the east side of the lake at Jordan Creek Town Center. Following the concert, Santa will arrive to light the 40-foot blue spruce tree, followed by a fireworks show around the lake. Afterwards, bring the family to the mall to enjoy pictures with Santa and more holiday entertainment. The event is sponsored by MidAmerican Energy Co., The Des Moines Register and Lite 104.1 KLTI.

Holiday Lights Des Moines

Friday, Nov. 28, 4 to 7 p.m.

Brenton Skating Plaza

Come enjoy an evening that begins with a performance from “The Nutcracker” by the Iowa Dance Theatre and a scene from “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” by the Des Moines Playhouse, followed by a tree lighting by Mayor Frank Cownie and a fireworks finale. Brenton Skating Plaza will be open for public skating from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; admission is $3 for adults and$2 for children 12 and under, and skate rental is $2.50.

Festival of Trees and Lights

Polk County Convention Complex

Admission is free on Friday, Nov. 28, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., but goodwill donations will be accepted.