Dec. 17: Omid-Yalda Celebration

A traditional event in Iran, Yalda, marks the longest night of the year. Presented by the Iranian Culture Foundation-Houston, Omid Soltani performs at the Stafford Centre. 7 p.m. (doors), 8 p.m. (concert). $35-$125 (depending on seat). Stafford Centre, 10505 Cash Road, Stafford. 832-767-1636. www.icfhouston.org  

Dec. 17: Science Sort In

This interactive, hands-on program, children have an opportunity to learn what it is like to be a paleontologist. Students begin by learning how to identify fossils and then embark on a mini-fossil dig of their own. Reservations are encouraged. 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Free. Sugar Land Branch Library, 550 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land. 281-238-2140. www.fortbend.lib.tx.us/branches/sl.html  

Dec. 18: Cirque Musica

The Cirque Musica Holiday Spectacular is a family-friendly holiday event featuring the cast of Cirque Musica together with holiday songs performed by the Fort Bend Symphony Orchestra. Cirque Musica is a concert and visual experience with acrobats and aerialists. 6 p.m. $25-$85 (depending on seat). Smart Financial Center at Sugar Land, 18111 Lexington Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-207-6278. www.smartfinancialcentre.com/event/cirque-musica