Dec. 18 weekly planner: Top 10 LI events

1. Winter Wonderland

It's a little piece of the North Pole in Bayville. The seasonal amusement park is open with holiday twists that include a Santa's Workshop-themed fun house, an animated holiday light show, rides on a scaled- down train, visits with Santa and ice skating. While you're there, toast marshmallows over a fire outdoors or warm up indoors with a la carte diversions ranging from arcade games to rock climbing.

2. Bah humbug

Spend Christmas Eve in Port Jefferson with the most famous miser Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Jeffrey Sanzel, as he travels on a reluctant journey with the ghosts of his past, present and future, eventually learning the true meaning of Christmas. Reservations recommended.

3. Bill O'Reilly

Political commentator Bill O'Reilly makes a stop in Carle Place to sign copies of his bestselling book, "Killing Lincoln: The Shocking Assassination That Changed America Forever," which focuses on the fateful event that took place days after the Civil War ended in 1865.

4. Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Rock meets classical instruments and a high-energy light show when the Trans-Siberian Orchestra makes a stop at Nassau Coliseum Wednesday. It's led by founding band member and Long Island native Paul O'Neill.

5. Hanukkah

The first night of Hanukkah is Tuesday -- local communities are hosting a range of menorah lightings to celebrate the occasion. Among them: The Bach Jewish Center in Long Beach will light an outdoor menorah at 5:30 p.m. along with live music, Israeli hora dancing, and snacks such as homemade potato latkes and jelly doughnuts.

6. Gavin DeGraw

The singer and musician headlines a concert at the Paramount in Huntington Monday night. He'll perform with special guests, including soul artist Mutlu, singer-songwriters Jared Lee and Rachel Platten.

7. Christmas Day -- at the movies

It's a different sort of holiday tradition -- heading out to the movies on Dec. 25. Among the films opening nationwide: "War Horse," director Steven Spielberg's story about a boy and his horse set against the backdrop of Europe during World War I; "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," starring Tom Hanks and Sandra Bullock, and sci-fi thriller "The Darkest Hour," about five young people in Moscow attempting to survive an alien attack.

8. Kenny Rogers in Westbury

The Grammy-winning crooner is celebrating the 30th anniversary of his "Christmas and Hits Tour." He returns to Westbury Friday for what's become an annual show of classic hits and holiday favorites -- some with onstage accompaniment from Long Island choir groups.

9. Hill Top

Make an escape from the holiday frenzy: Experienced hikers are invited to join a fast, hilly 4.3-mile trek along the Greenbelt Trail in Cold Spring Harbor. The route travels through the woods and includes scenic views of the harbor.

10. Candlelight tour

It's the last chance to take a candlelit tour of the 19th century buildings at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, which are aglow and decorated for the holidays. While there, you'll encounter costumed re-enactors, a holiday brass quartet and old-time fiddler, plus a craft show with handmade items and holiday decorations.