Toni Baker-Tyson describes herself as a social butterfly and writes about the Qcity's grown-folks nightlife. Her entertainment picks are published each Thursday. Opinions expressed are solely her own. Email her at toni@qcitymetro.com.

It's Dec. 1 — Thanksgiving is over and the spirit of giving is wonderful. 

During “turkey weekend,” I always wonder what happens to the homeless and the less fortunate after the holiday. Are they fed? Are they warm? So, instead of feeding those in need on Thanksgiving, I opted instead to drop off blankets and sandwiches over the weekend where I knew they would be needed. I'm sure you did your share of helping others in need as well. I hope many of us continue with our generosity. Pay it forward through the end of year, making the most of this holiday season.

With this being the first weekend of December, there are so many events to attend. Best-selling author and Pulitzer Prize-winner Isabel Wilkerson is appearing this evening at Spirit Square. And the Harvey Gantt Center kicks off the holiday season Friday with the Jazzy Holiday Luncheon at the Westin. This is by far one of my favorite events. If you're not too busy, I hope to see you at both. Tickets are still available for both events.

Check out my weekend picks

FRIDAY
Peace & Love Band: Back in September, I attended an old-school party featuring my favorite band, Peace & Love. Grown folks were talking about the fun we had that evening for quite some time. Well, if you missed it, you are now being forewarned. Get plenty of rest, wear comfortable clothing, and get there early. The band will have you on the dance floor all night long. And although we may not know the moves to the latest dances, we all know how to do the two-step. 

Location: Fanz Sports Grill (3425 David Cox Road). 
Cost: $10
Time: 9 p.m.-1 a.m.
More info: fanzsportsgrill.com or 704-597-74130

SATURDAY
2011 Artist and Angels Against AIDS Benefit: Poet and Founder of the Artist & Angels Against AIDS Zetta Chandler-Roberts is hosting her annual benefit Dec. 1-Dec. 3. The three-day event puts the focus on the AIDS epidemic that is disproportionately affecting the black community. A comedy show is being held on Friday evening, and the Slam AIDS Poetry Slam, hosted by Quentin Talley, takes place on Saturday evening..

Location: Nzinga Creative Arts Center (3218 Bernard Ave. in NoDa) 
Cost: $15
Time: 7 p.m. Saturday evening
More info: www.nzingacac.com or call 704-787-5123

SUNDAY
Black Nativity — presented by Tomorrow's R.O.A.D.: Song play based on The Gospel of St. Luke, combined with the poetry of Langston Hughes. This heartwarming play — based on The Gospel of St. Luke and the poetry of Langston Hughes — arrives just in time for the holidays; it’s been a favorite in theaters since its debut in 1961 on Broadway. Make it your holiday tradition. Tickets are still available for all three performances.

Location: McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square (345 North College St.)
Time: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sunday's performance 4 p.m.
Cost: $10-$17
For info: www.carolinatix.org or call 704-372-1000

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