Toni Baker-Tyson describes herself as a social butterfly. Her entertainment picks are published here each Thursday. Opinions expressed are solely her own. Email her at toni@qcitymetro.com or join her Chocolate Social Network.

With holiday travel extremely stressful, I decided to start a new tradition. I traveled home this past week to New Jersey and celebrated the holiday early with my family.

I definitely made sure I stopped by my favorite eateries -- White Castle, Rice Inn and Macks -- for a northern Taylor ham on a kaiser roll sandwich, just to name a few. As I spent quality time with family, we laughed, cried, fed the pigeons and ordered quite a few items from TV shopping channels. Although my visit was short, I'm still smiling as I reflect on my mother's smile and the twinkle in my brother's eyes. Priceless!

With five days until the official holiday, I wish each and everyone one of you safe travels and a Merry Christmas.

For those entertaining friends and family in the Queen City this weekend, check out my weekend picks:

FRIDAY
Grown Folks Stepping ~ Always wished you could dance the night away but were afraid you had two left feet? Come out and take Chicago-style steppin’ lessons, sponsored by Queen City Steppers. Weekly beginner classes at 7 p.m. and intermediate classes at 8 p.m. You can also dance the night away when the dance floor opens at 9 p.m.
Location: Upscale Restaurant and Lounge (3018 E Independence Blvd)
Time: 7 p.m. and 1 a.m.
Cost: $10
More info: email thequeencitysteppers@yahoo.com

SATURDAY
Comedian Jimmy Walker ~ Jimmy Walker kept viewers in stitches on the 1970s sitcom "Good Times." Now he has published his memoir, “Dynomite!: Good Times, Bad Times, Our Times.” See him at the Comedy Zone for nightly shows through Saturday.
Location: Comedy Zone (900 NC Music Factory Blvd)
Time: 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.
Cost: $15 general admission
More info: Visit CharlotteCultureGuide.com

SUNDAY
A Very Gospel Christmas ~ Join the Citylight Worship Team for a Sunday evening gospel extravaganza. The group will be perform Christmas favorites with a unique gospel twist. The show also will include classical and jazz ensembles . Stay after for treats, cheer and fun.
Location: Dilworth Elementary School (405 E. Park Ave)
Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: Free
More info: http://www.wdav.org/_events.cfm

Sign up for our Weekly Email Newsletter Email: For Email Marketing you can trust

Other Ways to Share Twitter Del.icio.us MySpace

Discussions and Submission Agreement