What's happening around Lancaster this week?

On Monday, Nov. 3, Theology on Tap discussion offers “Politics and Faith: Is it possible?” by Dr. Lee Barrett. The series is sponsored by St. James Episcopal Church to “share a setting where challenging and complex current cultural and religious faith issues are presented, shared and discussed.” The group meets at Annie Baileys, 28 E. King St., the first Monday of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. For details, contact Randy Harris at 717-808-2941, or the church office 717-397-4858.

Tuesday, Nov. 4. is Election Day. The polls open at 7:00 a.m. and will remain open until at least 8:00 p.m. You can find your polling here. Once the polls have closed, the County Elections Bureau will begin to post the local results of the election here. We encourage you to let us know how your voting experience went by sending us an e-mail at info@newslanc.com.

Starting November 6, the Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster presents A Christmas Carol. "Journey back to Victorian London, 1843 for a classic tale that shows it's never too late to change. Join Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and many other lovable characters as they enchant hearts and souls for the evening. Times and prices vary; see website for details." Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre is located at 510 Centerville Rd.

On Thursday, Nov. 6, Millersville University is showing the free film, Rain In A Dry land, as part of its Humanities Film Series. "‘Rain in a Dry Land’ provides eye-opening answers as it chronicles the fortunes of two Somali Bantu families transported by relief agencies from years of civil war and refugee life to Atlanta, Georgia, and Springfield, Massachusetts." Starts at 7:00 p.m. in Myers Audtorium in McComsey Hall (off of West Frederick St.) in Millersville.

Friday, Nov. 7 is the premiere of The Newsteam Trio at the Pennsylvania Academy of Music. "World premier performance of a composition by American composer Seymour Barab by The Newstead Trio (Michael T. Jamanis, violin, Sara Male, cello, Xun Pan, piano)." Tickets are $25. Visit http://www.paacademymusic.com/concerts.php for tickets and information.

This Friday, Nov. 7 is a "First Friday" in downtown Lancaster. "Over 90 art venues and shops extend their hours to 9 p.m. - some even later! For a complete listing of monthly First Friday activities, visit LancasterArts.com." A lot of people come downtown for First Friday. The atmosphere is very festive.

On First Friday from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m., you can "Experience the uplifting energy of Kirtan, a form of group chanting from ancient India. Afterwards enjoy a sampling of delicious Ayurvedic vegetarian foods, flavored with exotic and healing Indian spices - presented by Spice of Life, Lancaster" at The Yoga Path, 428 North Duke St. The price is $10.

Also on First Friday, Mulberry Art Studios is hosting the Lancaster Veterans Art Project. "This is a display presented by veterans doing their own artwork to honor other veterans. We will be having a reception on First Friday, Nov. 7th from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m." There is no charge for admission. Mulberry Art Studios is located at 21 North Mulberry St.

Also on First Friday, the Lancaster Museum of Art's exhibit and sale, "Trees Galore 08" opens with a reception. "The Museum’s annual holiday exhibition featuring art work for sale and silent auction by regional artists and friends of the Museum." 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The Lancaster Museum of Art is located at 135 North Lime St.

Starting on First Friday, the Demuth Museum presents "David Brumbach Unbound: Pages from His Book." "For the first time, this exhibit brings together the notebook that David Brumbach created while at Lancaster General undergoing treatment for diabetes. In addition, the exhibit will feature a retrospective overview of David's incredibly facile and unique artworks celebrating what would have been his sixtieth birthday." The exhibit will debut on First Friday starting at 5:00 p.m. and run until Jan. 4. The museum's normal hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Pennsylvania Railroad Museum in Strasburg is holding a "Taking the Swing Train 1940s Dance" on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. "Swing to the popular Sound of Roses live band among the trains in the Rolling Stock Hall. Come in uniform or 1940s clothing, if you wish, to jump, jive and swing the evening away." Tickets are required and start at $15. The Pennsylvani Railroad Museum is located at 300 Gap Rd. in Strasburg.

Also in Strasburg on November 8, the Strasburg Railroad is running a Wine & Cheese Train at 6:00 p.m. "While enjoying the sights, taste rich cheeses and flavorful wines, getting full authentic experience of the Wine & Cheese Train. Passengers must be 21 years or older, and a photo ID is required to board the car." $30 tickets required. Visit http://www.strasburgrailroad.com/wine-and-cheese.php for advance tickets and further information.