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It's showtime There's something about holiday plays and concerts that keep people coming back year after year - as much for the camaraderie as for the performances. Gerry Puopolo of Wakefield is part of a group of five couples who have been getting together monthly for 35 years. For the past 15, they've made a ritual out of going to Christmas at the Pops. "We make it a special day with our first stop at the Ritz-Carlton for hors d'oeuvres and their world-famous martinis," writes Puopolo. Then it's off to a fine restaurant and then the concert. "We hope we can continue this ... for many years to come." Linda Cardell says her family has made a tradition out of singing Handel's "Messiah." The Masterworks Chorale provides scores, a full orchestra, soloists, and a conductor. "The sound of 800 voices ... is quite amazing," writes Cardell. This year the sings are Dec. 18-19 at 8 p.m. in Cary Hall, 1605 Mass. Ave., Lexington. Anyone can participate, and it's free. Call 978-685-2058. With its eight nights, Hanukkah provides all sorts of opportunity for traditions. Halee Burg of Framingham writes that her family has given each night a theme, like Book Night, Food and Fire Night, Charity Night. "The kids' favorite is Ticket Night, when we surprise the children with tickets" to events like the Pops, an ice show, or the "Blue Man Group."

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