Books serve up cookie exchange ideas

The cookie exchange is the party for the way we live — and cook — now. Jam-packed schedules only allow enough time for a batch or two of holiday cookies, so how perfect is it to gather with friends for a few hours and return home with enough cookies to see us through Christmas?

Books explore the tastes and tales of Hanukkah

Holiday season

Merry creche mess: the fictional tale of a holiday gone haywire
Winter movie preview: Hollywood hopes end-of-the-year releases shine
Things to do: Find holiday events
Things to do: Find Santa or a holiday display
Things to do: More
Charities: Give to others

Deal Divas' gift guide

Gift ideas for everyone at every price

The shopping list can get overwhelming. Mom. Dad. Kids. Clergy. Cousins. In-laws in Borneo. We understand the pain of buying holiday presents for a small army. The Deal Divas, tbt*'s team of roving shoppers, and tbt* staff writers teamed up to do the work for you.

Holiday CDs

Christmas music: some naughty, some nice and some not so good

Santa will struggle to haul around this year's mound of Christmas music. A few lucky songs will meld with yuletide tradition, while others should melt on the yule log.

Pop Life: Pop music critic Sean Daly's blog

Christmas cookies

Bountiful supply of Christmas cookie recipes

Christmas cookies and easy cookie recipes are a priority during the holiday season.That’s why favorite cookie recipes from St. Petersburg Times readers have become such a holiday tradition.

Our gift: Ninth annual Christmas cookies issue a team effort

Sounds of the season

Admit it, you've been humming Christmas songs all day. But do you know your joyous strains from candy canes when it comes to the words? Try this interactive quiz.

Let's debate Santa

Maybe I'm not as sensitive as I should be, but it never bothered me like it does some parents to indulge the fantasy of Santa. To me, it's the magic of childhood that you still believe in magic. But there is the issue of lying. Does that bug anyone?

Deal Divas: Santa's little elves

Right after Santa checks his list to see who's been naughty or nice, he checks the Deal Divas blog to find local bargains for gifts. How else could we all afford Christmas this year? You'll also find fashion advice to get you through the holidays in style.

Florida abounds with light shows, holiday festivals