Big band jazz music is fitting for any time of year, but there’s just something perfect about it as a soundtrack to a nostalgic, feel-good, seasonal party. And Sunset Center hosts a community party, open to all, to join in the festivities—Santa sleds into the lobby for photo ops from 3-4:30pm before he has to head back to the North Pole to get ready for his busiest day of the year—and a livestream of Jazz at Lincoln Center, featuring vocalists Ekep Nkwelle and Robbie Lee, at 4pm. In between, experience live jazz music by Monterey Jazz Festival All-Star Band members, complimentary holiday cookies and beverages available for purchase. Pay what you can, and bring a new, unwrapped toy for a toy drive if you can. It’s the season for giving. [SR]

3-6pm Wednesday, Dec. 18. Sunset Center, San Carlos at 9th Avenue, Carmel. Pay what you can. 620-2048, sunsetcenter.org.