Yes, I know. We’re barely into the first week in November, but it’s looking like the holiday season is already in full swing. Department stores began decking the halls weeks ago, the slice-and-bake reindeer cookies have hit the shelves at the local Piggly Wiggly, and a few of the ‘Nutcracker’ ballets are gearing up for performances as early as Nov. 17. On a side note — check back here next week for Junior’s ‘Nutcracker’ Superlist.

No doubt about it. This time of the year has got us all thinking the same thing. . . What happened to Thanksgiving?!! But beside Turkey day getting left in the dust, family time can also take a hit this time of the year. The frenetic pace of the season can definitely affect the quantity and quality of that much-talked-about family time that we’re all suppose to be having (and enjoying).

Here a few events to help you savor what’s left of the autumnal season with your nearest and dearest.

Try out pie baking skills this weekend. Photo: Good Local Markets

Nothing says fall like a homemade pie. Good Local Markets is embracing the season with their 8th annual Fall Pie Contest this Saturday morning at Lakeside Baptist Church. In addition to the tradition contest, the nice folks at Good Local Markets have added a kids  contest this year for bakers 12 and under. Winners will be selected in the categories of Fruit, Nut, Chocolate, Cream/Custard and Best Overall. The entry fee is $10 per pie and (lucky you) all the pies are available for tasting for $5.

Opera can be fun for kids, too. Photo: shutterstock.com

Curious to see if the little kiddles have the stamina for the season’s upcoming concerts? An excellent litmus test would be Verdi & Company at the Winspear Opera House. Presented by The Dallas Opera, this short concert (about an hour) is the perfect primer to opera’s greatest hits, and the five dollar price tag makes it all the sweeter. This Saturday’s concert will feature selections performed by thrilling young artists and The Dallas Opera Orchestra. Come early for fun in the lobby and crafts.

Batter up! Photo: Farmers Branch Base Ball Club

Did the World Series leave you wanting more baseball? Grab your little sluggers and head to Farmers Branch Historical Park this Saturday for a Triple Header featuring vintage base ball club, the Farmers Branch Mustangs. You’ll learn all about how the game was first invented waaay back in the 1860s and see real teams play according to historic rules from the Civil War Era. That means no gloves! Spectators and ballists in period dress will be on hand to answer questions and take photos. The games are free and goes from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with different teams playing throughout the day.

Cuddle up and watch an outdoor movie with your favorite snowbabies. photo: Disney.com

The weather is finally at what most people would call seasonal. Take advantage of the pleasant weather with an outdoor movie this Saturday night. Downtown Dallas, Inc. is partnering with Alamo Drafthouse to present Movies in Main Street Garden, a family-friendly film series in the heart of Downtown Dallas. Moviegoers are welcome to bring picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and of course, their favorite furry friends. Concessions and beverages, including beer and wine, will be available for purchase. Festivities start at 6 p.m. and the film rolls at sundown. They’ll be showing “Frozen,” the perfect flick to get you in the holiday mood.

Explore your artistic side this Saturday at the Kimbell. Photo: Kimbell Museum of Art

If weather turns out to be less than perfect, one of the area museums is always a good choice. But even if your plans aren’t rained out you and the kid-lettes should definitely stop by the Kimbell Museum’s Renzo Piano Pavilion this Saturday for their Kids Drop-In event. You and your budding artist can learn about fun ways to enjoy art and then create a studio art project together. The event is free, but is limited to 20 children so be sure to sign up before you head out to the event.