Top 5 Things to Do This Week in The Woodlands December 17

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- It's Winter Solstice week! Winter officially begins Friday Dec. 21, the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight, as the sun rises at 7:13 a.m. CST and sets at 5:27 p.m. Makes a person want to hibernate, but there's no time for that with all of these fun things to do This Week in The Woodlands.

Kenzie Phillips is no stranger to the stage at Dosey Doe , having performed there more than a few times since she was 13. Now, the teenage singer/songwriter is ready to release her first CD at the Big Barn, 6:30 p.m. Monday Dec. 17. Phillips, a member of The Woodlands Church where she sings in the Student Ministry, has had a few of her original songs nominated to the Grammy long-ballot. Tickets to the release party are $5 or $10. Dosey Doe's kitchen will be open for service, so come hungry. Get your tickets here

No proud Texan should be without this as part of their holiday décor – an original "Merry Christmas Y'all" painting created by none other than yourself. Make it happen 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday Dec. 19 at Painting With a Twist. Those 21 and older can bring along a favorite bottle of wine or beverage and paint a picture along with a local art instructor who will guide you each step of the way. They provide the paint, brushes, canvas, aprons and wine cups. Register here.

The Woodlands Township is back with its annul Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt. This tradition includes hot cocoa, cookies and a hunt for sweet treats via flashlight, 5:30 p.m. Thursday Dec. 20 at Terramont Park. Fee is $10 for residents, $15 for nonresidents, with a $5 sibling discount. Pre-register by calling 281-516-7348 or 281-210-3950. Don't worry if you can't make it to this one -- they'll be doing it again Saturday Dec. 22 at Rob Fleming Park.

Holiday traditions are nice, but sometimes it's good to shake things up by doing something different and unique. Find it at Glade Arts Foundation where "The Enchanted Forest" awaits you. This is a multi-sensory light, dance and theatre installation set in an indoor and outdoor environment. Walk your way through the interactive magical forest at 5 p.m. Friday Dec. 21. The experience is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible. For tickets and additional show dates, click here.

Add some South American heat to your holiday fun 7 p.m. Saturday Dec. 22 at Avenida Brazil Winter Wonderland Holiday Celebration. You'll enjoy a Brazilian steakhouse dinner and music by Yelba. To add to the ambience, guests are encouraged to dress in all white. Tickets available online only. If you have any questions, call 281-651-5369 ext. 1.