BIFF Shorts, December 15

Relive five of the 2016 Boulder International Film Festival’s most creative and thought-provoking short films. Viewers will revisit fan favorites such as Ave Maria, the 15-minute tale of Jewish settlers who encounter five Palestinian nuns in a West Bank convent; and How I Didn’t Become A Piano Player, the 17-minute story of an aggrieved piano teacher trying to get through to a raucous child. Don’t miss the happy hour before the screenings, with hors d’oeuvre from Quinn Snacks and beer and wine available for purchase. Thu 7 p.m., eTown Hall, 1535 Spruce St., Boulder, 303-443-8696, $5.

Holiday Brass, December 16

Nothing captures the harmonious energy of the holiday season quite like an orchestra’s brass and percussion sections. Join the Colorado Symphony, led by guest conductor Brian Buerkle, for an evening brimming with holiday spirit. Enjoy renditions of traditional carols, classical favorites, jazz transcriptions, and music from holiday movies and TV specials that will make your season merry and bright. Sat 7:30 p.m.; Sun 5 p.m., Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church, 1980 Dahlia St., 303-623-7876, $10-30.

Holiday Weekend, Dec 17-18

At this weekend-long event, nosh on tasty treats, wrap up your holiday shopping, and support local artisans—all in one place. Attendees can enjoy a barbecue lunch from Acorn, a pop-up from art gallery and design boutique Svper Ordinary, and a photo booth with a hipster Santa. A full-fledged holiday market will round out the festivities with handmade ceramics from Two Hands Full, botanical perfume from Rootfoot, gift baskets from Colorado Crafted, letterpress cards from Brylo Studio, and chocolates from Cokolada Mama. Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,The Source 3350 Brighton Blvd., 720-443-1135, Free.

Dear Mayor Hancock, What Are You Going To Do?, December 17-23

With approximately 10,000 homeless individuals in Denver—60 percent of whom have no home to return to—homelessness in the city is at an all-time high. Artist and writer Sarah Gerard relies on multimedia resources in this exhibit to portray the true stories of Denver’s homeless. Tackling the subject with the help of students from the Mi Casa Neighborhood Center at North High School, the show incorporates audio and video portraits, zines for sale, and an installation filled with artifacts from the streets. Sat noon-6 p.m.; Tue-Fri 12-3 p.m., PlatteForum 2400 Curtis St., Suite 100, 303-893-0791, Free.

Snowflake Shoot, December 18

Get outside this weekend to learn an essential survival skill of our forefathers: archery. The rangers at Barr Lake State Park will put you through your paces to get first-timers comfortable behind the bow, while novice and intermediate archers can refine their technique. Kids ages six and up can channel their inner Katniss Everdeen as they aim for the bullseye. Tip: Make sure you register online beforehand. Sun 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Barr Lake State Park, 13401 Picadilly Rd., Brighton, 303-695-1495, Ticket prices vary.