As we creep ever closer to Christmas, the festivities are ramping up, big-time.---

Kevin Hart might not be a household name in Utah quite yet, but he's getting there nationally. The diminutive stand-up comedian has had a couple of successful Comedy Central specials, and this year released a feature film of one of his performances that was one of the surprise box-office hits of 2011. He starts a three-night run at Wiseguys on Thursday. 

Thursday is the beginning of one of Utah's own holiday traditions. That's right, it's Bestor Time! Kurt Bestor has been delivering A Kurt Bestor Christmas for more than two decades, and his performances are a nice combination of schmaltz and sincerity, with genuine musical skill on display. The annual run starts Thursday at Abravanel Hall. 

At the Grand Theatre on the SLCC campus, it's time for the Community Celebration of the Messiah, a jazz and gospel-infused throwdown that is always a treat.

Yamn, Marinade and Four Leaves bring the jammy vibe to The Urban Lounge tonight, just in case you're not quite ready for all this seasonal frivolity.