On the surface, it seems like our Thanksgiving celebration is the epitome of our tradition-light holiday style. Thanksgiving is practically synonymous with family; it’s a day to be around those who you value and love. Some people who aren’t close with their extended families spend the holiday together, even if that means more bickering and politically incorrect comments than anyone should have to endure. My family is an exception to that rule.

Saturday, Nov. 17 If you like to collect rare and vintage books that are nowhere to be found in modern book stores and malls, the 36th Annual Boston International Antiquarian Book Fair is a must-see. The fair will mostly exhibit antiquarian books, which are highly valued as ‘unique’ physical objects. The value may come from the edition, the quality of the printing, binding or illustrations. Some of the featured items in the fair include an autographed letter signed, “John Hancock” from Oct. 5, 1780, and “Cunning Cookery” from 1938 by Geoffrey M. Boumphrey. Throughout the day, there will also be events and programs featuring guest speakers discussing rare books, the American antiquarian society’s first two centuries and also the process and pleasure of collecting in areas of antique clocks and restoration. Hynes Convention Center, 900 Boylston St. Boston; 12 p.m.; $8; www.bostonbookfair.com

Lan Kim, a 25-year-old sophomore graphic design major, has made most large decisions in his life based on whims. Acting on an impulse drove him to attend Northeastern, to take up photography, and, in what may be the most significant decision made thus far in his life, to join the Army.

Giving local student musicians the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and show off their most recent work, the Boston Students Art Network (BSAN) will host its first Student Showcase on Sunday, Nov. 11. Students from Boston area schools will come together to demonstrate their talents and hard work to the community.

In 12 days, I will turn 21. And while I’m not anywhere near 40, it still sits there on the horizon awaiting me. I’m not afraid to admit that I’m scared to turn 21. It means I’m that much closer to having to be a grown up.

FEATURE: Thursday, Nov. 8 Ranked as one of the best poets of his generation, Ted Hughes is known for his poems and children’s books. His play, “Tales from Ovid” is being presented onstage by Boston’s Whistler in the Dark company. “Tales from Ovid” stems from myths that have been the basis for contemporary stories. It is made up of 24 passages from “Metamorphosis.” This play tells the story of transformation and passion, of gods and mortals in combat until that “entanglement combusts in a new state of being.” The myths will be explored outward in this adaptation. Whistler in the Dark is a company that usually goes into dramatic texts to encourage young people to go to theatre. This is one not to miss. The Jackie Liebergott Black Box Theatre at the Paramount Center, 559 Washington St. Boston; 7 p.m.; $25 - $49; www.artsemerson.org.

In honor of the election year, the Boston Public Library is featuring political maps as part of its “America Votes: Mapping the Political Landscape” exhibit, which began in late March and will run through Nov. 10.

The John Coltrane Memorial Concert is on Saturday, Nov. 3, in Blackman Auditorium. It is in its 35th year.

Now that I’ve safely escaped New Hampshire’s clutches, I stand by most of those sentiments — and yet, strangely, I feel something I never used to feel for my home state: love.

The News ambushed four students to hear who they think are SNL’s politician parody standouts.

Entry of the Week: ’Tis the season to be jolly! Even though it's only the first week of November, it's never too early to start buying presents. The Boston Christmas Festival, on Sunday, Nov. 4, will feature 300 shops from America’s Finest Craft Artists. From bargain hunters to expensive buyers, shoppers will find a plethora and an endless array of beautiful accessories, designer fashions, handcrafted jewelry and holiday decor. This festival will also get you into the spirit of preparing for the holidays. The festival will be selling tapestry Christmas stockings, wall hangings and garland wreaths, musical angel figurines, holiday elves, ornaments as well as collectible Santas. Tempting gourmet foods are also available throughout the festival. There will also be a gingerbread house competition. Participants create their masterpieces to be judged by a panel. Proceeds will go to a non profit organization, Housing Families dedicated to ending family homelessness. Seaport World Trade Center, Boston; 12 p.m.; $9 - $10; www.bostonchristmasfestival.com.

With elements varying from a rock concert to a rave to a comedy show, the Blue Man Group pleases crowds internationally with its unusual form of entertainment. The News chatted with one of the Boston Blue Men.