CANTON
Vampire 5K
When the December winds begin to wail, and the temperature drops into the freezing zone, who wants to go for a run in the dark? You may share the sentiments of the folks organizing the Vampire 5K in Canton: Running in winter isn’t fun. But they’ve embraced the idea and are, well, running with it. In this event, racers choose to be either a victim or a vampire, and make-up artists will be on hand to enhance both looks. The course winds through the woods and a corn field and ends at an after-party where both biters and the bitten can enjoy red drinks, dancing and music. Registration is required before race day.
5:30 p.m. Dec. 6. $60, includes T-shirt and bite-mark tattoo. Cagle Farms, 355 Stringer Road, Canton. 770-345-5591, vampire5k.com.
KENNESAW
A Polar Express Adventure
Following the city’s Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony, the Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History will give families the chance to wrap up the evening with a Polar Express-themed outing. Visitors can create their own holiday crafts, watch elves make toys in the machine works exhibit and check out the seasonal model train display. Hot chocolate and other refreshments will be served, and appointments to visit with Santa can be scheduled throughout the evening.
5-9 p.m. Dec. 6. $5 for 13 and older; $3 children 4-12. Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History, 2829 Cherokee St., Kennesaw. 770-427-2117, southernmuseum.org.
NORCROSS
Holiday Tour of Homes
Five historic homes and seven new townhouses throw open their doors for a holiday tour Dec. 6. Each house will be decked out in seasonal finery to get guests into a merry spirit — and perhaps provide some decorating tips to take home. Along the way, attendees can stop at Santa’s workshop, browse the marketplace in the Rectory and the Cotton Gin, and enjoy a variety of musical performances. Tours are offered during the day and by candlelight after dark. Tickets can be exchanged for a map and program at the starting point, One Heart Church.
9 a.m.-5 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Dec. 6. $20 in advance, $25 the day of the tour. One Heart Church, 706 N. Peachtree Street, Norcross. 678-421-2049, historicnorcrossholidaytourofhomes.com.
