In the weeks before Christmas, many arts organizations and historical societies are getting into the holiday spirit. And they’re inviting the public to join them at a variety of events around the county.

Concerts, train gardens and even the art of Japanese fish painting are among the offerings in Baltimore County this week.

Historic House Open House: The Ballestone-Stanbury House will hold an open house from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on three Sundays in December, the 15th, 22nd and 29th, to show off its holiday trees and decor. The historic home is at 1935 Back River Neck Road in Essex. Admission is free.

Gift Shopping: Todd’s Inheritance, a historic home that is the site of the British landing and assault on Baltimore in 1814, is opening to the public for shopping from noon to 2 p.m., Sunday. Come to this Sparrows Point museum at 9000 North Point Road to find something truly unique for the War of 1812 history buff in your family.

Train Garden: The Fire Museum of Maryland in Lutherville has one of the best train gardens around. This one’s a favorite of children and adults alike, and it’s open from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Arrive early; it is popular. Buy tickets — $15 for adults, $13 for seniors and firefighters, $7 for kids, free for 2 and under — at the door.

Bookstore: Towson definitely has been missing its bookstores; several have opened and closed in recent years. So it’s an extra treat this holiday season that The Ivy Bookshop has set up shop in The Shops at Kenilworth until the week after Christmas. In typical Ivy fashion, this pop-up includes thoughtfully curated gifts such as puzzles and also showcases local authors. 800 Kenilworth Drive, Towson.

Ugly Sweater Party: This could get ugly, warns the Greater Baltimore Chamber of Commerce. The organization is hosting its annual Ugly Sweater Party from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Dec. 18, at the Doubletree hotel in Pikesville. The $50 price for members and $45 for non-members includes heavy appetizers, one complimentary drink and a chance to prove you’ve got the ugliest threads. Plus, there’s a raffle and other prizes. DoubleTree by Hilton North Baltimore-Pikesville, 1726 Reisterstown Road.

Christmas Jazz: Manor Mill, an arts and performance venue tucked into a beautiful setting in Monkton, is hosting Christmas Jazz with the Monkton Trio from 3 to 5 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15. Tickets are $27.50. Concert is in the loft; be sure you give yourself extra time to look at the art exhibits and the gift shop in this repurposed space.

Japanese Fishprinting Workshop: Are you worried about getting your loved one something they already have? Guaranteed they won’t have one of these — an original Gyotaku. These are prints that Japanese fishermen created while at sea to document their catch in the days before cameras. You can make your own with artist Sue Fierston at the Natural History Society of Maryland from 1 to 2: 30 p.m., Saturday. Tickets are $40 for members, $50 for non-members, and each includes admission for an adult and a child 8 and up. Warning: The workshop uses real fish, so be prepared for smells. Wear clothes conducive to making art with fish. 6908 Belair Road, Baltimore.