Ever wonder why decorated fir trees were set up in homes during winter? (And no, it’s not because of the birth of baby Jesus.) Or why most religions have sacred holidays during winter? The Seattle Storytellers Guild hosts “Lore, Legends, and Lyrics of the Winter Holidays: Lights in the Darkness,” created and performed by UW Ph.D folklorist Maggie Bennett, tracing the roots and traditions of celebrations around the world between the fall and spring equinoxes. It sounds a lot less depressing than my family traditions: setting up the damned Snow Village on the window sill while my parents argue about the size of the tree, and the dog eats and vomits any low-hanging ornaments. Anyway. To bring her performance to life, Bennett accompanies herself on instruments like the Celtic harp, creating an enchanting (and educational) activity for kids and adults alike. Happy Holidays everyone! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to go string lights in a mini plaster village.

Thu., Dec. 13, 1:30 p.m., 2007