Fruitcake beer, holiday PJ party lead our weekend best bets

RALEIGH, N.C. — This is the weekend before Christmas, so when you aren't out finishing up that shopping you might want to take time to check out some of these events in and around the Triangle. 

One of the most anticipated movies of the year, Anchorman 2, is in theaters this weekend! Also in theaters this weekend is American Hustle starring Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence. 

Aerialists and acrobats perform stunning feats to classical and seasonal music during the North Carolina Symphony’s Holiday Magic: Cirque de la Symphonie this weekend. Shows are Friday and Saturday at the Duke Energy Center for Performing Arts.

The only fruitcake we are really interested in this year comes in a glass. Fullsteam in Durham is hosting a release party for their Fruitcake beer on Saturday at 6 p.m. It is made with grilled local figs and roasted chestnuts and then aged in a bourbon barrel for a month or so. Buy a bottle or a glass at the bar and get a free slice of actual fruitcake. 

Grab your best holiday pajamas and head to the West 94th Street Pub in Durham on Friday night. The Pub Holiday Pajama Party with Santa kicks off at 8 p.m. and ends around midnight. There will a best pajama contest and karaoke.

The Cary Arts Center is the site of this weekend’s “A Very Cary Christmas.” The event features two dance shows – the classic “Nutcracker” ballet and “All Wrapped Up,” a holiday fantasy featuring Santa and his reindeer. Shows are Thursday through Saturday. Tickets start at $12 and can be purchased at the Cary Arts Center Box Office or online through etix.com. 

A true Raleigh tradition is happening this weekend. “A Christmas Carol” featuring Raleigh’s Ira David Wood III will play the Durham Performing Arts Center Thursday through Sunday. Tickets start at $40.