Get your fuzzy socks and hot cocoa ready, Madison. From holiday performances to festive parties, winter is when Madison thrives.

Gather the family and friends and celebrate what makes the holiday season special with this guide featuring upcoming winter events.

Holiday parties

Family-friendly

Ride, Rudolph, ride. | Photo via Wisconsin Bike Fed

Holiday performances

A Very Darren Crissmas | Dec. 12 | 8 p.m. | Barrymore Theatre, 2090 Atwood Ave., Madison | $45-$175 | The "Glee" star will perform songs ranging from big band Christmas classics to novelty tunes to modern-day folk-pop ballads.

New Year celebrations

Shop 'til you drop

Winter Night Market | Saturday, Dec. 9 | 4-8 p.m. | Archer and Eye, 2042 S. Stoughton Rd., Madison | There will be art, baked goods, kitchenware, and home goods in the store's new gallery space.

Shop stocking stuffers at Archer and Eye. | Photo by Archer and Eye

Hippie Holiday Market | Sunday, Dec. 10 | Delta Beer Lab, 167 E. Badger Rd., Madison | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Bring cash to join the raffle fundraiser and support Outreach Madison.

The Big Gay Holiday Market | Saturday, Dec. 16 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Wisconsin Rugby Club, 4064 Vilas Rd., Cottage Grove | Shop dozens of queer vendors at this heated indoor/outdoor market with a beer and wine bar, food carts, and hot drinks.

Holiday Black Bazaar | Saturday, Dec. 16 | 1-5 p.m. | DOXA Event Center, 2700 Novation Pky., Madison | This festive celebration of culture, community, and creativity includes a photo op with Santa.