There is strength in numbers, the adage goes, and nowhere is that more apparent than at Casa Italia in Stone Park, where more than a dozen organizations will join forces to stage the Casa’s eighth annual Christmas Village. The complimentary open house is slated for Dec. 4.

A Presepio Vivente, or Living Nativity, will be performed by ARPA/San Nicola during the Casa’s noon Mass. Festivities also will feature a strolling zampognaro and Befana, a horse-drawn carriage, Christmas carols by the Casa Italia Choir, a special performance by the students from the Casa’s Italian class, and a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus with photos and gifts for children.