Arts and Entertainment

What's happening this week: Veterans Day, Ski Swap and Witches Ball

Parade for Veterans Day

On the 11th day, 11th hour and 11th month in 1918, the armistice went into effect and Veterans Day (Nov. 11 this year) was born. Veterans' organizations have come together to bring a parade to Anchorage to honor those who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Delaney Park Strip, G Street and West 10th Avenue. Free. (907-244-1762, anchorageveteransdayparade.com)

Big Band Bash

Show off your best jitterbug, swing and Lindy hop while a 17-piece orchestra plays vintage jazzy hits. This annual fundraiser for the Alaska Aviation Museum will feature a hosted bar, food, live and silent auctions, costume contests and World War II flight combat simulators. Tickets: $50 or $60 at the door; 15 percent off for members. 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday, Egan Center, 555 W. Fifth Ave. (907-248-5325, bigbandbash.net)

Ski swap

It's that time of year — the ski swap is back. This year there will be live entertainment, an auction, adult beverages and an activities expo, 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday at Kincaid Chalet. Hear about local recreational opportunities while you buy and sell new and used wintertime gear. The program concludes with a potluck (please bring a salad or side dish) and door prizes. Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage provides beverages, brats and dessert. Bring cash and ID for beverages. See the website for gear drop-off schedule. Free. (907-276-7609, anchoragenordicski.com/events/nsaa-ski-swap)

The Second City

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Renowned comedy troupe The Second City returns to Alaska with "The Second City Hits Home." The group will perform sketches, songs and improvisation poking fun at Anchorage — our history, events, hot-button issues and headlines. 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, Atwood Concert Hall, 621 W. Sixth Ave. $32.50-$66. (907-263-2787, alaskapac.centertix.net)

Movember improv extravaganza

Anchorage has two year-round improv troupes — and this week you'll have a chance to check out both of them. Hard Rock Cafe is teaming up with Scared Scriptless, Urban Yeti Improv and La Bodega for "Movember: What's In Your Sack," a fundraiser for the Alaska Cancer Care Alliance. There will be blind beer tastings while the comedians do their thing. Door proceeds will go directly to the Alaska Cancer Care Alliance. 7-10 p.m. Saturday, Hard Rock Cafe, 415 E St. $20. (907-538-2711, brownpapertickets.com; search for Movember)

Want even more local comedy? John Norris will host a show featuring Katelynn Sortino, Matt Burgoon, Rudy Ascott and Matt Collins at Tap Root Public House at 9 p.m. Thursday. Tickets $3; 21 and over. (3300 Spenard Road)

Witches Ball

Not ready for Halloween to be over? Hang out with the Wiccans of Alaska and see how real witches party at their annual semi-formal costume ball this weekend. This year's a bayou theme, and there will be hors d'oeuvres, a costume contest, raffle drawings and live music from local blues band T. Harvey Combo. 21 and older. Cash bar. No tickets at the door. 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Saturday, American Legion Post 28, 7001 Brayton Drive. $45. (907-231-0870, meetup.com/Wiccans-of-Alaska)

Bats of Alaska

Discover which bats are found in Alaska and other facts about these often misunderstood creatures. Alaska Fish and Game biologist Marian Snively will also discuss current research and white-nose syndrome. Free; $5 parking for nonmembers. 2 p.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Eagle River Nature Center, 32750 Eagle River Road. Free. (907-694-2108, ernc.org)

 
 
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