It’s the final weekend before Christmas rolls around and across the Suncoast local theaters are spreading the spirit. Venice Theatre, The Players, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and the Van Wezel all have seasonal programming on stage, full of wintry backdrops and festive cheer, so with family in town and friends off work, it’s prime time to take advantage.

A Christmas Story: The Musical has been on The Players’ stage since Dec. 3 and closes this Sunday, Dec. 21. Based on the classic film and given the Broadway treatment, Judah Woomert stars as Ralphie Parker, leading the cast through this humorous and wholesome tale about family, holiday stress and a special Red Rider BB gun. “In a town where there are very few changes in ‘seasons,’ offering an escape to a ‘winter wonderland’ is more vital than ever,” said Players Theatre Artistic Director Jeffrey Kin. “By transporting people to a happier time or place (or season), the arts just prove how invaluable they are.”

Venice Theatre continues a 15-year tradition, bringing the classic A Christmas Carol to the stage for one weekend only, ending Dec. 21. “A number of residents have relatives visiting and are looking to enjoy holiday entertainment,” said Murray Chase, executive/artistic director for Venice Theatre. “[Charles] Dickens’ message was one of charity and goodwill. People can enjoy and relate to the story even if they do not celebrate the Christian holiday.”

Nate Jacobs, artistic director for Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, is currently directing Black Nativity, Langston Hughes’ Nativity reimagining, also ending its run this Sunday. “We wanted to present something that would add joy and inspiration to the holiday season while staying true to our mission of promoting and celebrating the African American experience,” said Jacobs. Incorporating gospel classics, spirituals, blues and even some Christmas carols, WBTT calls Black Nativity the “African-American Christmas card to the nation.”

And for one night only, the Nebraska Theatre Caravan will be in town, bringing its original adaptation of A Christmas Carol to the stage at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall at 7pm on Dec. 21.