On the first Thursday of each month, an assortment of venues hold art openings, theatrical and special cultural events in a seemingly successful effort to lure people Downtown.

On December 2nd, the Wadsworth Atheneum will open its Festival of Trees and Traditions exhibit for its 37th season. Trees, gingerbread houses, wreaths, and menorahs — decorated or created by artists and others from the community — will be on display through December 12th.

During the opening — from 5-9pm on December 2nd — Judith Ivie, author of Drowning in Christmas, will be at the museum to sign copies of her book. The film for the evening will be Love Actually, a romantic comedy set during the holiday season.

Among other festivities, the museum will be screening The Polar Express at 3pm on December 5th and The Miracle on 34th Street, also at 3pm, on December 12th .