A much-abbreviated listing, this week. But only the best:

Seattle Center’s ice is nice

This weekend, welcome way-cool kid stuff at Winterfest. Saturday looks particularly family friendly. You can watch ice sculptors (1-5 p.m.) or fast-stepping Mexican dancers (3:45-4:15 p.m.) or sit around a bonfire and listen to stories and songs (5-7 p.m.).

Saturday, November 29, Seattle Center at 305 Harrison St. Free.

Santa parks his sled at Pike Place

Say "hi" to Santa at Pike Place Market’s "Magic in the Market," starting at noon. Do a few crafts, donate canned food and listen to carolers. A brass quintet starts playing holiday music at 4 p.m., and the tree lighting takes place at 5 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 29, noon-5 p.m., at Pike Place Market, 1501 Pike Place.

A wooden boy among the buoys

On Sunday at the Museum of History and Industry, StoryBook Theater will show one of my kids’ favorite stories -- Pinocchio. It’s recommended for ages 3 and up, and I would recommend reading the original with your kids first, before heading out for the show. And afterwards, stay and play among MOHAI’s interactive activities that focus on Seattle’s history, marine-related and otherwise.

Sunday, Nov. 30, 1 and 3 p.m., at the Museum of History and Industry, 2700 24th Ave. E. Tickets are $9.

We’re off to see the wizard…

And finally, can I once again plug "The Wizard of Oz?" I recommend SCT's sweet interpretation; it’s particularly wonderful for kids 6 and up who’ve seen the movie once or twice already.

Through Jan. 17 at Seattle Children's Theater, Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St. Tickets $15-$40.

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