In between grocery shopping for next week's food-filled holiday and shopping for Christmas presents, make some time for family fun this weekend (Nov. 21-23). The annual holiday lights at Garvan Woodland Gardens will start shining, and CARTI's festival of trees brightens up downtown Little Rock. Or, if you need a break from holiday happenings, check out the newest exhibit at Museum of Discovery -- it's all about dinosaurs!

1. Holiday Lights at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs: It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Garvan Woodland Gardens! The annual holiday display opens this weekend, spreading nearly 4 million brilliant bulbs across approximately 17 acres. As you amble through the winter wonderland, your family can sip complimentary hot chocolate. The Village Big Band will kick off opening night with a free concert of holiday music in the Anthony Chapel (6 p.m. Nov. 22). Mark your calendar for Santa Nights, as well, from Dec. 8-11 and Dec. 15-18. Included with general admission, children can visit with Santa and take photos (photos available for an additional fee). $10; children ages 6-12 $5; children under 6 & members free. 5-9 p.m. daily Nov. 22-Dec. 31; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. For info: (501) 262-9300, GarvanGardens.org.

2. 38th Annual CARTI Auxiliary Festival of Trees at Statehouse Convention Center: Venture into the glittery, shimmering forest of CARTI’s Festival of Trees. Hosted by the CARTI Auxiliary, the event features more than 20 decked out trees and benefits the Patient Assistance Fund, which provides medication, housing transportation, support and a statewide cancer education program. Supporters of the center can also attend one of many other events, including the family-favorite, Sugar Plum Ball (SOLD OUT), a special evening of dancing and desserts for little fairy princesses. Festival of Trees general admission $5, children under 13 $3. Nov. 19-22. For info: CARTI.com.

3. Dinosaurs: The Bare Bones Exhibit Opening at Museum of Discovery: This new and in-depth look at the prehistoric creatures explores crucial background information that is often overshadowed by the sheer majesty of these massive animals. The educational exhibit dispels common misconceptions and engages visitors with hands-on, interactive exhibits like a fossil dig pit, timeline matching game, and much more. Guests can get up-close looks at life-size skulls, arms, feet and everything in between. Tue.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; 1-5 p.m. Sun. Nov. 22-April 26. $10, children 1-12 & seniors $8, members and kids under 1 free. For info: (501) 396-7050, MuseumOfDiscovery.org.

4. "A Fertle Holiday" at The Joint: A Fertle Holiday is an original two-act comedy chronicling the Fertle Family's trouble-ridden reunion in the tiny town of Dumpster, Arkansas, as they attempt to entertain their rich relatives from San Diego. The Main Thing comedy trio brings the quirky family to life by portraying all the relatives and townspeople needed to create the illusion of a big, bustling Christmas get-together. Suitable for all ages. 8 p.m. Fri and Sat. Nov. 21-Jan. 10. $20. For info: (501) 372-0205, TheJointArgenta.com.

5. AAC Children's Theatre Presents: The Velveteen Rabbit at Hillary Rodham Clinton Children's Library & Learning Center: Get a sneak peek of this holiday production before it opens at the Arkansas Arts Center Children's Theatre next week! The Velveteen Rabbit is a classic Christmas tale about a bunny who longs to be real. 10 a.m. Nov. 22. For info: (501) 978-3870, CALS.org. FREE!

6. Nuggets with the Grinch at E.O. Manees House in North Little Rock: Snack on Chick-Fil-A nuggets while hanging out with the Grinch! The workshop is presented by Kids in the Kitchen, the Junior League of North Little Rock's nationally-recognized program that encourages children to make good food choices. Photos with the Grinch, holiday cheer and an art project, too. $15. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 22. For info: (501) 412-7512, JLNLR.org.

7. Talkin’ Turkey at Central Arkansas Nature Center: Everyone loves a little turkey and dressing on Thanksgiving, but have you thought about where those Butterballs came from? Learn about their wild cousin, the eastern wild turkey, and join in on some turkey talk as the group breaks out the calls and see who’s got their gobble on. 11 a.m. Nov. 22. For info: (501) 907-0636, CentralArkansasNatureCenter.com. FREE!

8. Asian Festival at St. Joseph's Parish Hall in Conway: Sponsored by Asian Pacific Resource & Cultural Center, this festival celebrates Asian Pacific heritage with fun, food, entertainment, games and even an egg roll eating contest. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $3; children under 12, military, firemen & seniors free. For info: (501) 358-3868, AsianFestArkansas@yahoo.com.

For more events, browse our full online calendar here.