You’ve probably noticed a lot of witch-themed merchandise in stores recently and not in the aftermath of Halloween.

The world is gearing up for the long-anticipated second part of “Wicked,” a Broadway musical turned movie starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, which has overtaken media since last year.

The second movie, “Wicked: For Good,” is simply the second act of the original Broadway musical, but even larger than life. Why two movies? That’s Hollywood for you — milk something for as long as possible by whatever means necessary. I’m surprised they didn’t split “Wicked” into three parts.

Don’t get me wrong, the first movie was phenomenal from technical, musical and directional standpoints. However, I’ve never been a “Wicked” fan. The market is oversaturated with prequels, and I’m never a fan of prequels that make me sympathize with the villain of an original franchise. This practice ruins the originals, as people are unable to separate the two once they’re created. Call me crazy, but I don’t think we were EVER supposed to sympathize with Darth Vader or the Joker because evil isn’t supposed to make sense.

“Wicked” is different in the sense that it suggests there’s some injustice lurking underneath the surface of Oz, and this makes her rebellion more relatable. While many hate the musical’s second act, I have a feeling they will be pleasantly surprised by “Wicked: For Good” due to its talent and message.

If you will not be one of the thousands of people at the movie theater this weekend, take a look at what else is going on in Butler County.

The Christmas in Chicora Vendor sale is a two-day event that starts at 9 a.m. Friday and Saturday at Quality Life Services, 160 Medical Center Road. Get a head start on that shopping! See the event Facebook page for more information.

Santa’s First Stop is at the Cranberry Township Municipal building, 2525 Rochester Road, at 6 p.m. Friday. This free event features a “Polar Express Experience,” live reindeer and a chance to meet the big man himself. For more information, visit cranberrytownship.org.

The Candy Cane Cruise at Alameda Park, 184 Alameda Park Road, allows children and their families to experience the twinkle of holiday lights at 6 p.m. Friday. Cost is $10 per child and registration is required at bcpr.recdesk.com. This ensures every child receives a gift from Santa! Visit the website for more information.

The craft show hosted by Mars middle and high schools is the largest around, with over 100 vendors at each school on Route 228 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. A shuttle will even transport patrons between the buildings. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for students. Get a jump start on your Christmas shopping. Call Maureen Orchard 724-625-3472 with any questions.

Prepare to deck the halls with your buys from the Vintage Ornament Sale at Bottlebrush Gallery in Harmony, 539 Main St. The sale lasts from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and will continue at noon Sunday if they don’t sell out. Visit the event Facebook page for more information.

Cranberry Men’s Chorus has their first “Christmas Memories” concert at noon Saturday in Quality Gardens, 409 Route 228 in Adams Township. The a cappella group will be singing your favorite carols. A complete concert schedule and more information can be found by visiting cranberrymenschorus.com.

Chicora’s Christmas Wonderland Parade begins at 3 p.m. Saturday along the borough’s Main Street. It will be followed by the hometown Hallmark Christmas event. Expect to see spectacular floats, ride in horse-drawn carriages, eat delicious food, hear carolers and more. For more information, visit the event Facebook page.

Slippery Rock borough’s light up night never disappoints: shop vendors, play games, hear live music and watch the tree come to life with your neighbors starting at 4 p.m. Saturday on Main Street. For more information, visit Slippery Rock Development’s Facebook page.

Support Slippery Rock Community Library at a spaghetti dinner Saturday in the Slippery Rock Township building, 155 Branchton Road. Stop in between 4 and 7 p.m. for a chance at basket raffles and the 50/50. Admission is $13 for adults and $8 for children ages 5 to 11. Takeout is available and tickets are on sale at the library. See the Facebook event for more information.

Spend a Night at the Races and support the Junior Women's Club of Butler at 5 p.m. Saturday in Highfield Hall, 229 Highfield Road, Butler Township. Pay $45 general presale admission or $60 at the door to access dinner, race viewing and a complimentary drink. Horses cost $10 apiece. Visit butlerjrwomens.com/races for tickets and information

Boot scoot to Saxonburg Fireman’s Club, 155 Pittsburgh St., at 7 p.m. Saturday for line dance night. There is a $5 cover charge and only those 21 and older can attend. See the event Facebook page for information.

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.