I have a reputation as a “good reader.” Not only do I keep up with local and national news, but I also am on track to read a book a week in 2025. This reputation also allowed me the privilege to serve as a playreader for Butler Little Theatre.

Much goes into consideration when selecting a theatrical season. At such a time as this, when people are especially conscious of politics (2026 is the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, and the 25th anniversary of 9/11), current events and cultural movements, finding entertaining and relatable subject matter becomes a jigsaw puzzle.

What’s important for me to remember as I read is that audiences respond to emotional movement. Whether what is happening onstage makes them laugh, cry or think, it is important plays (and all forms of art) start conversations and build understanding among groups of people.

This weekend, art is abounding in all of its forms, and most of it is trying to incite emotion. We have events supporting veterans and active servicepeople; we have fundraisers for those in need; and we have heartwarming Christmas activities. If you need a smile or a giggle this weekend, you’re sure to find it in Butler County.

And if none of these suit, the Butler Area Public Library has plenty of plays you can read to help me out.

Laugh it up at Hobnob Theatre’s First Fridays Improv at 7:30 p.m. in the studio, 134 S. Main St., Butler. Tickets are $5, and they go fast! Visit hobnobtheatre.com for more information.

Plains Presbyterian Church is hosting a holiday craft fair from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday on the campus, 326 Plain Church Road, Cranberry Township. There will be vendors, raffles and refreshments. For more information, call 724-538-8785.

Grace Church of Harmony is hosting a holiday market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday on the campus, 538 Main St. This is an excellent way to start your Christmas shopping! For more information, visit experiencebutler.com.

Historic Harmony’s Weihnachtsmarkt will get you in the Christmas spirit at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday in Harmony. Shop vendors, take a carriage ride, participate in children’s activities and more. Admission is $8 for adults, and $6 for seniors and students. Children under 12 years old get in for free. For more information, visit harmonymuseum.org.

Shop the latest trends at the Emlenton Civic Club’s Fashion Show at 1 p.m. Saturday in Crawford Center Auditorium, 511 Hill St. Tickets cost $15, cash or check only. There will be light refreshments and raffles. For more information, visit the club’s Facebook page.

Support Wreaths Across America at an improv show in Hobnob Studio, 134 S. Main St., Butler, at 7 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are pay what you can at hobnobtheatre.com.

Line dance night at Saxonburg Fireman’s Club, 155 Pittsburgh St., starts at 7 p.m. Saturday. You must be 21 or over to enter and nonmembers pay a $5 cover. See the event Facebook page for more information.

Help Jackson “Jax” Ramirez receive a blood stem cell transplant when you attend a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday at Matthew Hall on the Glade Run Lutheran Services campus, 50 Glade Run Drive in Zelienople.

Adults eat for $10 and children ages 4 to 12 eat for $5. Children 3 and younger eat for free. For more information, visit zelienoplerotary.org.

Veterans and active military are invited to have lunch and fellowship with other servicepeople at a gathering hosted by Gospel Life Church, 242 S. Washington St., Evans City, from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday. There is a service at 11 a.m., with yard games and food to follow. Register at gospellifechurch.net.

If you are interested in your event being featured in Miller Minutes, please email information to news@butlereagle.com.

Molly Miller is an Eagle correspondent.