Heathen holidays

If you’re not Christian—or don’t believe in a biblical god of any sort—then you probably already know there’s not much to do around Christmastime. Nevertheless, atheists, pagans and Pastafarians can all take comfort in the fact that there are at least some like-minded people holding events in the Sacramento area. There’s not really too much going on outside of Christmas, though—aside from the occasional HumanLight or Kwanzaa party. Here are some of the best non-Christmas events happening in the upcoming weeks.

Sacramento Freethinkers, Atheists & Nonbelievers and a few other groups will be throwing an annual HumanLight/Winter Solstice party on Sunday, December 23. The event gives atheists and other freethinkers a chance to get together and celebrate their beliefs. There will also be a raffle, a food drive for both humans and pets (through the River City Food Bank and The Sacramento Pet Food Bank, respectively), a potluck, and a performance by the Mockingbirds. The free party is held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Curtis Hall at the Sierra 2 Center for the Arts and Community (2791 24th Street).

The Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento (2425 Sierra Boulevard) will be holding its own celebration of the winter solstice. The religion, which is about seeking spiritual growth in general, draws on a number of beliefs rather than a single religion. This free celebration, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, December 21, features a labyrinth walk, potluck and ceremony with guest speaker the Rev. Julie Interrante, who will tell stories, lead prayer, and play the Native American flute.

Several Kwanzaa celebrations happen in Sacramento between December 26 and January 1, the week the holiday is observed. One is the Black United Fund of Sacramento Valley’s free celebration at The Brickhouse Gallery & Arts Complex (2837 36th Street). Happening on Wednesday, December 26, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., the event features drumming, singing, food and the collection of clothing to be distributed to homeless shelters.

The Crocker Art Museum (216 O Street) celebrates Kwanzaa on Friday, December 28, with its artist-in-residence Deborah Pittman. At 2 p.m., she’ll be performing a multimedia piece inspired by Norman Rockwell’s painting, “The Problem We All Live With.” The event costs $3 for college students or $5 for general admission, and advance registration is required.