Enjoy a variety of December programs at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh. In addition to holiday events, come hear about the new book Holy Smoke: The Big Book of North Carolina Barbecue. Another program will focus on legendary ax murderer Frankie Silver, who killed her husband in 1831. This year marks the 175th anniversary of her hanging.

Holiday events will bring the sights and sounds of the season. See downtown all aglow during the Capitol Tree-Lighting ceremony, or join a shape-note sing. Youngsters will love the children's celebration during First Night Raleigh activities at the museum. All programs are free except First Night Raleigh. Parking is free on weekends. Programs are listed below.

History à la Carte: They Won't Hang a Woman
Wednesday, Dec. 10

12:10 p.m.

Bring your lunch; beverages provided.

Maxine McCall, Historian and Author
Convicted of the ax murder of her husband, Frankie Silver was executed in Burke County in 1833. What provoked her? McCall will present historic evidence about this legendary crime.

Capitol Tree Lighting
Wednesday, Dec. 10

5-7:30 p.m. (museum open)

6 p.m. (tree-lighting ceremony on the Capitol grounds)

Watch the annual lighting of the Capitol tree, listen to seasonal music, and come to the museum for hands-on fun!

Writer's Block: Holy Smoke: The Big Book of North Carolina Barbecue
Saturday, Dec. 13

3 p.m.

John Shelton Reed and Dale Volberg Reed, Authors
Enjoy an exploration of the lore, recipes, traditions and people that have helped shape North Carolina's signature dish. A tasting and book signing follow the program.

Music of the Carolinas: Shape-Note Sing
Sunday, Dec. 14

3 p.m.

Shape notes have been used in congregational singing in the South for over two centuries. Take a quick lesson and join in as seasonal sounds fill the museum. PineCone co-sponsors the performance.

First Night Raleigh 2009

Wednesday, Dec. 31

2-6 p.m. (children's celebration)

7-11 p.m. (nighttime events)

First Night button required for entry.

For more information, call 919-807-7900 or access ncmuseumofhistory.org.

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The N.C. Museum of History's hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is part of the Division of State History Museums, Office of Archives and History, an agency of the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources. The department's Web site is www.ncculture.com.