New York City has an incomparable mix of cultures, people, and traditions. It is a city that never sleeps. If somebody claims that everything happens in New York City, virtually no one will dispute it. Thus, your plans to visit New York City should not just be about touring and hopping from one subway station to another. Your vacation plans should also include seeing some of the most popular New York City Events.

The New York Film Festival

Film fanatics are a dime a dozen but great films are rare. The world’s greatest films are showcased and honored during the New York Film ...continue reading]]> New York City has an incomparable mix of cultures, people, and traditions. It is a city that never sleeps. If somebody claims that everything happens in New York City, virtually no one will dispute it. Thus, your plans to visit New York City should not just be about touring and hopping from one subway station to another. Your vacation plans should also include seeing some of the most popular New York City Events.

The New York Film Festival

Film fanatics are a dime a dozen but great films are rare. The world’s greatest films are showcased and honored during the New York Film Festival in October. It is one of the New York City events that are anticipated by the whole world. To see this event, you must obtain tickets months ahead.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is one of the New York City events that are broadcasted on national television. Reputed to be Broadway’s longest running show, the parade features famous blown up balloons of Disney characters and intricately designed huge floats that carry singers, dancers, and film stars. It is free to see this event but you need to come in early because of the big crowd that this New York City event draws every year.

Cinema Village

If you are looking for New York City events that feature foreign films and films produced by independent filmmakers, the place to go is the Cinema Village. Located at 22 East 12th Street, this building features films that will never be shown anywhere else. So what’s so special about the Cinema Village? You need to attend an event during opening weekends so you will also meet and get to talk to film directors.

The New York Philharmonic Concert

The New York Philharmonic orchestra provides the world’s best musical performances. This is why the concerts are one of the most sought-after New York City events. The orchestra usually performs from September to June at the Avery Fisher Hall located in the Lincoln Center. If your family could not manage to get concert tickets, it is a good idea to visit the Big Apple during summer, when this world-class orchestra plays for free at different parks around New York.

The Nutcracker

No other performing group can produce a more memorable version of The Nutcracker than the New York City Ballet. Considered as one of the most anticipated and most popular New York City events during the holidays, the Nutcracker can be seen at the New York State Theater at 155 West 65th Street. Tickets are often sold out so make plans to buy these several weeks ahead. For actual performance dates, see the official website of the New York City Ballet.

The Carnegie Hall Concerts

Located at 881 Seventh Avenue, the Carnegie Hall hosts the world’s most incredible musical performances. The concerts primarily feature classical music and feature international musicians. A musician who gets invited to play at the Carnegie Hall is recognized as one of the most successful ones. If you wanted to experience classical music at its best, see one of the concerts at the Carnegie Hall.

Fashion Week Tents at Bryant Park

It has been rumored that organizers of New York fashion week are going to announce that next year, Fashion Week will be moving from Bryant Park (where Fashion Week has been held for the last 15 years) to Lincoln Center.

Apparently, park management has been complaining for years about the invitation-only shows had grown too large and were restricting access to the park. Although Fashion Week was welcomed in 1993, when it started, there have been many clashes between Fashion Week organizers and the park’s management company.

The problems escalated in 2006 when the Bryant Park Corporation ...continue reading]]>

Fashion Week Tents at Bryant Park

It has been rumored that organizers of New York fashion week are going to announce that next year, Fashion Week will be moving from Bryant Park (where Fashion Week has been held for the last 15 years) to Lincoln Center.

Apparently, park management has been complaining for years about the invitation-only shows had grown too large and were restricting access to the park. Although Fashion Week was welcomed in 1993, when it started, there have been many clashes between Fashion Week organizers and the park’s management company.

The problems escalated in 2006 when the Bryant Park Corporation announced it would no longer allow the shows to take place in the park because the shows were interfering with plans to operate a skating rink in the winter and public use of the main lawn in the summer. Designers and editors (including Anna Wintour) then begged Mayor Michael Bloomberg to intervene and allow them to hold the shows there, at least temporarily.

Plans for the move to Lincoln Center are not finalized however, as we do not know if they plan to have tents in Lincoln Center as well. One such proposed idea was to put tents on either side of the theatre, with a corridor between them. However, that corridor means that guests might have to walk about a block between each show.

About 63 designers are expected to present their fall 2009 collections in the park starting on Feb. 13, although hundreds of other shows are scheduled at galleries and event spaces around Manhattan. The event generates $466 million in visitor spending each year, according to the New York City Economic Development Corporation.

A model walks wearing Vera Wang

Vera Wang Dark was light and airy at Vera Wang’s runway show as the designer celebrated the midnight hour. The collection was an exploration of black as more than just a color, but rather its inherent texture, volume, composition and sensibility. Wang illustrated a dark romance, roughing up her scalloped organza and wool crepe gown with a slight, disheveled touch. Jet black tulle and feathers felt playful, while long gloves and bold, detailed shoulders were sophisticated and powerful. While glamorous to the end, Wang did tone down the opulence, opting for black twill jackets and ...continue reading]]>

A model walks wearing Vera Wang

Vera Wang
Dark was light and airy at Vera Wang’s runway show as the designer celebrated the midnight hour. The collection was an exploration of black as more than just a color, but rather its inherent texture, volume, composition and sensibility. Wang illustrated a dark romance, roughing up her scalloped organza and wool crepe gown with a slight, disheveled touch. Jet black tulle and feathers felt playful, while long gloves and bold, detailed shoulders were sophisticated and powerful. While glamorous to the end, Wang did tone down the opulence, opting for black twill jackets and baggy trousers. Clean lines, blazers and wool pants never once felt over-masculine, but rather echoed Wang’s signature super feminine style. Rows of pearls messily tossed on grounded the looks, illustrating Wang’s delicate film noir.

Max Azria
Max and Lubov Azria focused on minimalism last season, and they have done it again–this time delivering a subtle, quiet collection characteristic of gentle beauty. The thirty-six looks were darkly sophisticated, and aubergine and beige hues injected movement into the much more simplistic, toned down designs. A taupe wool boucle coat paired with a taupe silk dress was seemingly simple in its structure, but very bold, all at once. Azria described that the goal was to highlight a woman’s strength and sensuality, while taking pains to create garments that are utterly unfussy. Azria noted, “It is a minimalist collection and it’s less formal. In that sense, it’s very architectural and it makes a woman extremely strong, sexy, and ready to go anywhere.”

Rodarte
“We wanted the girls to look like they were walking on the moon,” said Kate Mulleavy after the dramatic, black-lit finale of the brand’s Fall 2010 effort at Gagosian. In the process, they’ve send their captive audience over the moon with a masterful and euphoric display. Like Marc Jacobs this season, the CFDA winning sisters ignored the seasonal palette clichés and instead illustrated their ‘sleepwalking’ theme with sensuous whites, personality-driven florals, and intricate knits. The Fall Rodarte was all about imaginative draping, haunted pearl details, and airy fabrics. But more importantly, this collection served as almost a polar opposite to the duo’s last line and evoked a completely contrasting–but very enticing–set of emotions.

Narciso Rodriguez
Once again Narciso Rodriguez honed in on the importance of detail and clean, soft lines, resulting in a collection that was effortlessly sexy. Black and charcoal gray spherical hats sliced and diced the separates, giving the designs a distinctly geometric feel. Cut-outs and shoulder detailing were delicate, while charcoals, steely grays and pewter hues were the perfect backdrop for shots of gold and emerald. Body-wrapping details and asymmetry provide injected the eveningwear with movement–and promised to flatter the figure. Rodriguez knows just how to reveal, without ever disclosing too much. His successful cocktail of crisp, clean silhouettes, luxurious silk fabrics and surprise detailing hit all the right notes.

Marc by Marc Jacobs
Marc by Marc Jacobs gave his military-themed collection a thrifty and youthful spin for Fall 2010. Combat khaki twill coats and belted army red jackets were made charming and child-like with mid-calf dress socks, patent leather oxfords, striped nubby knits, and over-the-shoulder bags appropriate for platoons and pep squads alike. If you’re looking for something a bit more feminine, hone in on the Bronte lace blouse with high-waisted wool trousers, the balsam gilded numbers, or any of the ultra-girly A-line little black dresses.

Donna Karan
For her 25th anniversary show, Donna Karan emphasized the bare basics (black, that is) and told her quarter-century story through powerful, architecturally-inspired pieces created out of wool organza, tweed, and opulent shearlings. The lack of color was a surprising creative choice for such a significant show, but dramatic gowns with spiral-cut layers and sculpted jackets are certain to satisfy her core costumer’s cravings. It felt like a confident and assured master display, though seldom colorful numbers (like Sasha’s magenta showstopper) had us itching for more.

Badgley Mischka
Mark Badgley and James Mischka truly outdid themselves this year by putting on two runway shows in one. First, 15 Badgley Mischka looks culminating in the traditional wedding gown followed by twice that number of looks from contemporary line Mark & James. The gown line delivered exactly what Badgley Mischka is known for—high wattage eveningwear. Several show-stopping pieces were covered top-to-bottom in sparkle with a subtle ombre effect. The contemporary line was not without its own brand of glamour. Fur, metallic fabrics, beading and glittery trim made it clear this was not intended to be your average grocery-shopping attire. But for designers all about outrageously over-the-top glamour, they exercised ample restraint to make the contemporary line wearable yet special enough to treasure.

Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham greeted each guest attending the intimate showings of her new collection personally, discussing the fabric, concept, color, fit and construction of each piece. Inspired by Dick Tracy and the film noir femme fatale, Beckham’s pieces mixed structure with draping, achieving a series of elegant silhouettes for both day and evening. The models sported round sunglasses from the recently-relaunched Victoria Beckham eyewear collection. Red, black, and white platforms produced in collaboration with Brian Atwood were striking as well, mostly for their skyscraper height.

source: http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/the-fix?page=3

Models walk for Haiti

(NEW YORK) As Fashion Week rolls on, so do the efforts to support the people of Haiti. Last night, the tents were buzzing with excitement and anticipation, as it was clear that Naomi Campbell was in the house. The super’s massive charity fashion show, Fashion for Relief, promised to feature a slew of chicsters in designs which will all be auctioned off at Net-A-Porter beginning March 15th. Campbell spearheaded the show, as friends and supporters including fellow models, fashion designers, actors and musicians stomped down the runway in designer looks put together by Rachel Zoe.

Agyness Deyn ...continue reading]]>

Models walk for Haiti

(NEW YORK) As Fashion Week rolls on, so do the efforts to support the people of Haiti. Last night, the tents were buzzing with excitement and anticipation, as it was clear that Naomi Campbell was in the house. The super’s massive charity fashion show, Fashion for Relief, promised to feature a slew of chicsters in designs which will all be auctioned off at Net-A-Porter beginning March 15th. Campbell spearheaded the show, as friends and supporters including fellow models, fashion designers, actors and musicians stomped down the runway in designer looks put together by Rachel Zoe.

Agyness Deyn must have been having a major wardrobe malfunction in the shoe department though—the seasoned model took not one but two spills on the runway. Other famous catwalkers faired a bit better. Donna Karan and Diane Von Furstenberg took to the runway with ease, as well as Karen Elson, Helena Christensen, Tanya Dziahileva, Selita Ebanks, Chris Brown, Alan Cumming, Lorenzo Martone, Kelly Osbourne, and Estelle. Runway tumbles and all, the night was a smashing success. “Naomi did a fantastic job!” raved Georgina Chapman. “We’re all so thrilled to be here and support her and efforts for help in Haiti. It’s really amazing.”

Source: http://www.fashionweekdaily.com/scene/article/heart-for-haiti

You’d think that living in the biggest and most active city in the world would mean we all party our heads off on New Years, but no. Most New Yorkers don’t really do anything for New Years at all, and if they do, it always turns out to be a disappointment. Of course, there are those of us who will be partying and living the dream, but truth be told, most people stay at home or leave the city for this travesty of a holiday, and here are the top 10 reasons why New Years in NYC is overrated:

1) Super Crowded ...continue reading]]> You’d think that living in the biggest and most active city in the world would mean we all party our heads off on New Years, but no. Most New Yorkers don’t really do anything for New Years at all, and if they do, it always turns out to be a disappointment. Of course, there are those of us who will be partying and living the dream, but truth be told, most people stay at home or leave the city for this travesty of a holiday, and here are the top 10 reasons why New Years in NYC is overrated:

1) Super Crowded Everywhere – In an attempt to make every New Years less disappointing than the last, New Yorkers head for their favorite bars, restaurants and hangouts – which means that there are easily 500 people trying to get into any place that looks decent on New Years. Oh, and when that happens, service sucks, and food and alcohol and sometimes run out. Not to mention how expensive all the food suddenly becomes…

2) Impossible to get to the store – So many people are driving here, there, and everywhere that you can’t even manage to drive to a store, a friends house, or anywhere.

3) Times Square Full Of More Tourists Than Ever – It’s a known fact that New Yorkers hate silly tourists in Times Square, especially the ones who actually stop and hold up street traffic to stare and take pictures. Well, that is all that happens on New Years. Except to the entire city.

4) Impossible to get on public transportation – It will be crowded, everything will be late, and women: there will be at least 20 drunk guys on every bus that WILL make you uncomfertable.

5) Impossible to get a cab or car service – This is the busiest day of the year for them! And with thousands of people to take home, believe me, they will never get to you. And, they overcharge on New Years. A ride that would normally cost $7, suddenly surges to $25, leaving you broke and/or stranded.

6) Ryan Seacrest now hosts ‘Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve’ – ‘Nuff said.

7) Police everywhere – EVERYWHERE. You can’t get away with anything on New Years, especially not in Manhattan. Well, i’m lying, you CAN get away with plenty, but if the cops notice, you’re screwed.

8) Slightly dangerous to be outside – Mostly because so many people are drunk, and out to pick fights.

9) Everyone’s expectations are way too high – New Year’s eve is supposed to be amazing, new, you have to get kissed, and have fun, etc. But it never goes that way. Which leaves most of us kind of sad the next morning — so remember, that most of the time, plans don’t work out so don’t count on them. This will make your evening much better.

10) It is almost always WAY too cold to do anything – New York City doesn’t usually get TOO cold… except on New Years. The last few years, New Years has been absolutely freezing – making most plans un-do-able.

The show was set in New York, and Tyra (well, mostly her helpers) would wander the streets of Manhattan, asking women questions about makeup, their sex lives, and other personal things.

I don’t think too many people are really disappointed that the show is over…. there are only so many “shocking” topics Tyra could come up with, and anyway, her one look is getting old.

This is the fifth season the show is running, and will be wrapping ...continue reading]]> The Tyra Show is finally going out of business, because the former model says she would like to focus on other projects, such as producing films.

The show was set in New York, and Tyra (well, mostly her helpers) would wander the streets of Manhattan, asking women questions about makeup, their sex lives, and other personal things.

I don’t think too many people are really disappointed that the show is over…. there are only so many “shocking” topics Tyra could come up with, and anyway, her one look is getting old.

This is the fifth season the show is running, and will be wrapping up next spring. The show has won 2 Daytime Emmy awards in the past, but has been dropping in ratings recently.

People Magazine is reporting that “Banks will focus on the launch of Bankable Studios, a N.Y.-based film production company currently reviewing possible projects. Sticking to her mission, Banks aims to bring ‘positive images of women to the big screen,’ says an industry insider.”

“My next huge steps will allow me to reach more women and young girls to help us all feel as fierce as we truly are,” Banks adds to this statement.

The insider also said: “Tyra is sad because she’ll be missing so much of the daily connection to her viewers, but excited at the same time to be taking on a new challenge.”

Unfortunately, Tyra’s other show, America’s Next Top Model will be coming back once again for its 14th season.

Tyra’s supposed mentor, Oprah, has also recently announced that her show will be ending soon as well, in 2011.

“There’s a lot cooking right now and a lot of fire burning in my heart,” Banks writes in an open letter on her Web site. “And I salute you my amazing family of viewers; without you there never would have been a Tyra Show. I really love you all.”

A red Kathy Bag.. Perfect holiday present!

It is that stressful holiday season… and picking out presents is the absolute worst. Most lists online are absolutely no help either. They all say the same thing: get something thoughtful, meaningful, etc. Sure, that is important, but it is equally important to a lot of girls that you get the right presents. So I have put together a list of stuff *almost all* girls would want (also, in case my boyfriend is reading: this is a hint!).

1) Kathy Bag – These are all the rage, and not all that expensive either (prices range ...continue reading]]>

A red Kathy Bag.. Perfect holiday present!

It is that stressful holiday season… and picking out presents is the absolute worst. Most lists online are absolutely no help either. They all say the same thing: get something thoughtful, meaningful, etc. Sure, that is important, but it is equally important to a lot of girls that you get the right presents. So I have put together a list of stuff *almost all* girls would want (also, in case my boyfriend is reading: this is a hint!).

1) Kathy Bag – These are all the rage, and not all that expensive either (prices range from $80-$100), though you will have to call her best friend and find out which one she wants, this is definitely a worthwhile investment.

2) Burberry Scarf & Glove Set – This is for those who have a bigger budget (buying from department stores can run you about $150), though if you have the time and resources check around outlet malls, you might be able to get a set for $60-$100. The simple elegance of Burberry draws nearly every girl in.

3) Take her shopping at Frederick’s of Hollywood – this is the gift that keeps on giving. Go with your girlfriend, pick out something that both of you like and enjoy your evening ;-) (p.s. They have amazing holiday sales)

4) Flannel Pajamas – These are super comfy, warm, and something you two can enjoy together. Put on your new pajamas and spend the night snuggling on the couch. This is a really sweet present, thoughtful and romantic.

5) MacBook Sleeve – Well, really any laptop sleeves. This present is thoughtful and practical… after all, women love their gadgets too, especially when they can decorate and “protect” them in pretty ways!

6) Swarovski Anything – This isn’t a real diamond, not nearly as expensive, though absolutely gorgeous. Women love Swarovski! Their website has a variety of choices, so you can personalize your present depending on your girlfriend. You can get her a Christmas tree set, jewelry, accessories (flash drives, headphones, wallets), or adorable little figurines. Any type of girl would go for this.

7) Herb Garden – For the girlfriend who is a chef or nature lover, something like this would be appreciated. Also, this is on the cheaper side, so you’ll love it too.

8) Pop art camera – For the artistic girlfriend. It’s cheap, thoughtful and practical… you can’t go wrong!

9) Merchandise based on her favorite book – For the bookworm. This will definitely be appreciated! Just ask her what her favorite book is, google it, and get her a t-shirt, box, or toy. This is sweet and thoughtful.

10) Broadway Tickets – Take her out on a date! There are many websites that give out discounts, so find one and go!

Tips -

AVOID gift certificates, they are impersonal. Unless you know for sure she likes a certain item of clothing, avoid getting that. If she wants clothing, take her shopping! Ask her friends what she would like if you want to make sure to get her something practical. Also, try to stay away from perfumes and bath sets.. girls do like them, but they are such generic Christmas gifts. Most girls get at least 2-3 a year. Make your present different.

Don’t forget to buy a BLANK card, and write something sweet inside. Girls love cards… we always keep them and look at them, so make it good! Also, instead of flowers this year, try edible arrangements! Fruit and chocolate and pretty? We’re all over it!

The Classic New York City Condoms

The famous (though low-quality) New York City condoms are currently being given out everywhere… in schools, clinics, and even at train stations. Next fall the city has planned to release a limited-edition condom package and is holding a contest to pick the new look.

They are looking for a design that would reflect NYC’s “distinctive culture and style while also promoting safer sex.”

The website says: “Maybe you’ve admired the NYC Condom’s sleek package design. Maybe you even own one or two of the 41 million the Health Department gave away last year. We’re not about to ...continue reading]]>

The Classic New York City Condoms

The famous (though low-quality) New York City condoms are currently being given out everywhere… in schools, clinics, and even at train stations. Next fall the city has planned to release a limited-edition condom package and is holding a contest to pick the new look.

They are looking for a design that would reflect NYC’s “distinctive culture and style while also promoting safer sex.”

The website says: “Maybe you’ve admired the NYC Condom’s sleek package design. Maybe you even own one or two of the 41 million the Health Department gave away last year. We’re not about to abandon the now-iconic package, but we want to keep things interesting. So we’re planning a special limited edition of NYC’s favorite prophylactic – and we want you to design it. Whether you’re a famous artist or just a doodler, this is your chance to promote safer sex in New York City. We’re looking for designs that reflect the city’s diverse, distinctive culture while conveying the message that safer sex is better sex.”

“Any New York City resident, 17 or older, can submit one entry. The artwork must be original, must not be raunchy, and can’t include copyrighted or trademarked images (no Empire State Building motifs). With those exceptions, anything goes. But think fast – entries are due by midnight on January 22, 2010. For details on how to submit an entry, see the Rules and the FAQ (PDF).”

There is no cash prize for winning this contest…. But if your design makes it onto New York City condoms, you’re pretty much going to be the most famous NYC artist.

The Largest Menorah, Located at the Grand Army Plaza

When people think of the holidays in New York City, they always think about Christmas, Christmas trees and Christmas lights! It almost seems like Hanukkah is always on the back burner.

So I did some research and found a list of festive Hanukkah activities to broaden everyone’s holiday horizons!

Lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah

Location: Grand Army Plaza in Manhattan, 5th Avenue at 59th Street

When: Grand lighting ceremony is Friday, December 11th, at 4 p.m., but the celebration happens every night for 8 days

Admission: Free

New Yorkers love big don’t they? Well, this Menorah ...continue reading]]>

The Largest Menorah, Located at the Grand Army Plaza

When people think of the holidays in New York City, they always think about Christmas, Christmas trees and Christmas lights! It almost seems like Hanukkah is always on the back burner.

So I did some research and found a list of festive Hanukkah activities to broaden everyone’s holiday horizons!

Lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah

Location: Grand Army Plaza in Manhattan, 5^th Avenue at 59^th Street

When: Grand lighting ceremony is Friday, December 11^th, at 4 p.m., but the celebration happens every night for 8 days

Admission: Free

New Yorkers love big don’t they? Well, this Menorah beats out the Rockefeller Christmas tree… this menorah is 32-feet-tall, and weighs two tons. It is lit by a cherry picker. They light the candles every night of Hanukkah. The celebrations are accompanied by folk music and dancing and sufganiyot (holiday jelly donuts).

Sephardic Music Festival

Location: Various Locations/Venues

When: December 12-19

Admission: Varies

This music festival comes once a year. Artists include Yai Dalai, Electr0 Morocca, Levi Mordecai, Michal Cohen, Diwon, Pharaoh’s Daughter, and others.

Family Celebration at the Jewish Museum

Location: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Avenue at 92^nd Street

When: Hanukkah tours are at 2:15 on December 15, 17, 22, 24, and 29.

Admission: Tours are free with museum admission. Adults: $12, $7.50 for students, and free for kids under 12.

This museum has special tours for Hanukkah, teaching children and adults alike about the different Hanukkah traditions.

MatzoBall

Location: Capitale, 130 Bowery, 212-334-5500

When: Thursday, December 24, 2009.

Admission: $25

This is a Jewish singles extravaganza, brought to you by the Society of Young Jewish Professionals. This is one of the most popular Jewish events in the city.

Heebonism

Location: Fontana’s, 105 Eldridge Street between Broome and Grand, 212-334-6740

When: December 24

Admission: $20

Party with Heeb magazine, and enjoy some time with free vodka, karaoke, live music and strip dreidel.

Klezmer for Kids

Location: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge Street between Canal and Division

When: Friday, December 25, 2009

Admission: Adults $12, Kids and seniors $8

This is an interactive song and dance performance; kids explore Hanukkah through Eastern European Jewish music and receive heritage lessons from Yiddish and Hasidic traditions. Here you can sing, dance, and learn some Yiddish.

It’s that time of year again. And although many do not celebrate the holidays anymore because they are over-commercialized, there are plenty who can benefit from this season of over-spending. So if you plan to overspend this year, spend it in the right places.

NYC Cares – Winter Wishes Program

This program is trying to fulfill the wishes of 32,000 underprivileged New York Children. Yours could be the only presents they receive all year. Click the link above to see how you can participate.

Marble Church

This is a year-round charity that has all sorts of volunteer opportunities. This time of year, their volunteers wrap ...continue reading]]> It’s that time of year again. And although many do not celebrate the holidays anymore because they are over-commercialized, there are plenty who can benefit from this season of over-spending. So if you plan to overspend this year, spend it in the right places.

NYC Cares – Winter Wishes Program

This program is trying to fulfill the wishes of 32,000 underprivileged New York Children. Yours could be the only presents they receive all year. Click the link above to see how you can participate.

Marble Church

This is a year-round charity that has all sorts of volunteer opportunities. This time of year, their volunteers wrap presents, serves food to the homeless on Christmas morning, and has volunteers visit the elderly.

Operation Santa Claus

This is the post-office program answers the letters of over 50,000 children who wrote letters to Santa Claus. The letters the children write can be beautiful, and this can be a wonderful experience for a family to share together.

City Harvest

This is another wonderful opportunity for families to get together and collect food that would feed the hungry. Kids can get their schools and friends involved by running a food drive.

Also check out local schools and collages who often have many different charity programs this time of year, such as food and toy drives.