BALLS! A Holiday Spectacular: This year will mark the 7th and final year for “Balls!”, a variety show with sock puppets, local musicians, actors, and audience participation. This year the event will benefit The Gathering Place, the only daytime drop-in center for women, children, and transgender individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty in Colorado. Monday, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Lannie’s Clocktower Cabaret, 1601 Arapahoe St.; Tickets can be purchased online or by phone: 303-996-9040; $25 at the door

Denver Center for the Performing Arts: Whether you are a fan of Charles Dickens or can’t imagine the holidays without Ralph and his pink bunny pajamas, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts has the show for you. Purchase tickets to A Christmas Carol (runs until Dec. 27) or A Christmas Story, The Musical (Dec. 16 to 27) using code “SANTA,” and the DCPA will donate a portion of each ticket purchased to the Denver Santa Claus Shop—a local, volunteer-run nonprofit that aims to bring “A Toy for Every Girl and Boy.” Tickets can be purchased online.

GIVE Denver’s Holiday Gift Drive: Now through December 19, GIVE Denver is accepting donations for all ages, specifically older youth, teens, and adults, in need of sporting goods, clothing items, hygiene products, and other necessities. Drop off: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Richard T. Castro Building, 1200 Federal Blvd.

5th Annual Christmas Carol Classic: Participate in the 5th annual Dickens-inspired Christmas Carol Classic featuring a 5k, 10k, and a “Tiny Tim” 1k. This year’s event benefits the Denver Children’s Home—a nonprofit restoring hope and health to children and families who have dealt with trauma. Denver Children’s Home will also be collecting gifts for their “Giving Tree”. Saturday, 9 a.m.; Pavilion at Denver’s City Park 1700 N. York St.; Registration online, fees vary

Ugly Sweater Run: Ready. Set. Go put on your ugliest holiday duds, and join in the fun at this merry 5k. Awards will be given for the best ugly sweater (of course), best kids sweater, best pet attire (service dogs only!), and best real/fake facial hair. Pre-register an additional $5 to help Charity Partner, Save the Children, or simply donate to the nonprofit on December 18th in celebration of National Ugly Sweater Day. Saturday, 11 a.m.; Dick Sporting Goods Park 6000 Victory Way, Commerce City

To submit your event or organization for inclusion in 5280‘s weekly “Get Involved” column, email getinvolved@5280.com.