December 2004 calendar of events.

ANCHORAGE

1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 Traditional Irish Music Sessions

Kick up your heels at this weekly Celtic dance with local musicians. Snow City Care, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. For information, phone 272-2489.

2 Kids Fest

Music, magic, theatre, storytelling and more, located at 5th Avenue Mall from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Anchorage Downtown Partnership at 279-5650.

2-12 Anchorage International Film Festival

A provocative showcase of some of the best independent film and video from around the world. Venues include Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, Alaska Experience Theater, Snow Goose Theater Pub and more. For more information, phone 338-3690 or visit www.anchoragefilmfestival.com.

3-5 Top Girls

This performance cuts through the centuries of stereotyping and oppression of women and celebrates the strength, intelligence and tenacity of the modern woman. Friday and Saturday, 8 p.m., Sunday, 3 p.m., at the Mainstage Theatre, UAA. For more information, phone 786-4849 or visit www.uaa.alaska.edu/theatre.

4 5th Annual Alaska Native Holiday Bazaar

More than 50 Alaska Native Silver Hand artists from across the state will be offering unique arts and crafts for purchase. Located at Alaska Native Heritage Center. Admission is free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, phone 330-8000 or visit www.alaskanative.net.

11 Scared Scriptless Comedy Improv

Features improvised scenes based on audience suggestions. For mature audiences only. Cost is $5 at the door. Showtime is 10 p.m. at Cyrano's Off Center Playhouse. Call 274-6732 or visit www.scaredscriptless.com.

11 A Holiday Collectibles Silent Auction

The holiday collectibles are collector pieces, some rare, from complete village scenes to individual accessories. Located at ConocoPhillips Atrium, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, phone 297-7719.

15-19 The Graduate

This hilarious coming-of-age story has been called a sensational triumph, rich, full and funny. Performances held at Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. For ticket prices and show times, visit www.anchorageconcerts.org or phone 272-1471.

31 2004 New Year's Eve Ball with the Anchorage Opera

Enjoy a gourmet dinner and fine wines, music and entertainment, as well as an auction of intriguing and luxurious items at the Hotel Captain Cook starting at 7 p.m. For more information, visit www.anchorageopera.org or phone 279-2557.

31 Just Desserts

Russian Jack Springs Chalet, starting at 11:15 p.m. Race up to 3 miles...