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Christmas

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house not a creature was stirring....

Ah, the beauty of Christmas. For all the stress and expense it really is a special time of year. Office parties, family gatherings, and all kinds of fun mark up our calendars; our wallets may lighten and our waistlines might bulge a little, but we love it. Coordinating meals, presents , and visitors from out of town can be a huge stress and, as with everything, planning ahead will make all of the difference this year.  So get your snow boots  in gear and get ready for some holiday cheer!

Decorating

One of the first things most people do is get their Christmas decorations in order.  in some neighborhoods, decorations become a huge competition with yearly prizes and lots of fun activities!  Obviously, a tree  is the ultimate sign of this special day--you can use the ornaments  and a tree topper  to personalize it for your tastes.  Whether are looking to spruce up the inside  of your house with a colorful milk and cookie plate  or add some tinsel  or candy cane decorations  to your lawn , there are tons of options available--even some non-traditional ones. Check out these guides on how to deck all the halls!

Christmas Trees

You will surely find the tree that you are looking for in this guide.  Choose from artificial  or live trees to fit in any home or apartment.

Tree Ornaments and Lights

One of the best parts of the holidays is trimming the tree with family members. Tear drops, glass balls, and novelties all have a place on a well-trimmed tree.

Indoor Decorations

Your house isn't going to decorate itself, is it? Here you can fulfill your wreath ,garland , and gingerbread house needs.

Outdoor Lights

Brighten up the block with some outdoor Christmas lights! Who knows, you could with the neighborhood decorating contest.

Outdoor Decorations

Here you can find all of the figurines, inflatables, statues, lights, plants, and greenery that you will need for this year's Christmas.

Entertaining

Christmas parties, whether you are hosting the party yourself or attending one elsewhere, are the main event for this holiday, but that's not the only thing you might have to plan for. You  might be traveling out of town for Christmas, in which case you'll want to make sure you have everything ahead of time--and ship the majority of your presents to your destination!  Airport security is sure to be heightened this season, so save the hassle and pack light. The guides below offer some advice and insight into all of your needs--and you might even learn something new!

Hosting a Christmas Party

Have you ever wanted to host your own Christmas party?  Here you will find everything you need to have a successful celebration.

Christmas Etiquette

Avoid those awkward moments and be the gracious guest.  Learn when gifting is and isn't appropriate, whom to tip, and just who belongs on the card  mailing list.

Traditions Around the World

Learn about international Christmas traditions.  This is very interesting and helpful if you are traveling or receiving foreign guests.

Holiday Travel Tips

Just because Santa travels easy doesn't mean you will. Find all of the tips and info you will need to enjoy your journeys this holiday season. 

Holiday Safety

Without the proper precautions, some decorations are a fire hazard. A burned down home will dampen anyone's spirit, so make sure to follow these guidelines. 

Christmas Dinner

Though it often takes second place when compared to the Thanksgiving table, a good Christmas meal is nothing to scoff at. You can find most, if not all, of the food you'll need to satisfy your family during the holidays while browsing online. Since every ethic group that has immigrated to the United States has brought its own traditions with it, it's hard to say what the "All-American" Christmas looks like; the most basic rule is to keep the dishes coming! These guides will try to cover many of the more common conventions.

Gift Giving

Gift giving is a huge part of the winter holidays. For children, around whom the holiday gift-giving extravaganza revolves, it starts with the much awaited visit to see Santa Claus and culminates with the dashing to see what is under the tree and in the stockings  on Christmas morning. Adults enjoy giving (and receiving) gifts as much as the children do, though wrapping is no one's favorite holiday activity. To make this season an enjoyable one for all, use the Christmas-specific guides below to get the perfect present for everyone on your list. (Remember you can also check out the general gift guides for other options!)

Gifts for All Budgets

Tight on cash this holiday?  Find something they will love without spending a lot of dough.

Stocking Stuffers

Everyone loves a stocking filled with candy, fruit, small electronics, and interesting knickknacks. Don't forget the holder!

Secret Santa Exchanges

Buying Secret Santa treats can be difficult.  This guide will show you how to give appropriately.

Hot Holiday Gifts

Be the first to know what's hot this season and stock up before everyone else does.

Baby's First Christmas

Babies can get in on the Christmas action too.  Booties, onesies, and baby mobiles galore!

Gifts for Women

Keep the women in your life happy this holiday season with a variety of goodies, from purses to diamond earrings.

Gifts for Men

Lets face it, men love cigars, alcohol, and electronics.  Find all of that here.

Gifts for Children

Explore this year's toys and games for the little people in your life.

Gifts for Boyfriends

This guide will show you the perfect present for each stage of your relationship.

Gifts for Girlfriends

Buy something that shows you were paying attention. It's the thought that counts, after all.

Holiday Toy Guide

This complete holiday toy guide will keep you up-to-date on what the kids want.

Christmas Gifts for Gamers

Tons of people love video games, and it's a good bet even casual players would love some of the stuff listed here.

Electronic Gifts for the Holidays

As electronics become more advanced, they have almost become a necessity in today's world.

Christmas Gift Presentation

Unleash your inner Martha Stewart! This is especially helpful for the guys who failed arts and crafts.

Gifts for Pets

Don't leave Fido or Whiskers out this Christmas. Animals know it's a special time of the year.

Dressing Up

With Christmas right around the corner, it's never too soon to start shopping for holiday attire...or Santa costumes! Whether you plan to celebrate the season with family or friends, looking your best is always in style, especially if you want to avoid a cheesy-looking family Christmas card. Check out the following guides for stylish tips on what to wear when chestnuts are roasting and Jack Frost is nipping at your nose.

Holiday Entertainment

If the stress of the season has you down, it's time for a breather. Whether you want to veg out in front of the television with a movie you know by heart, or need a soundtrack to your holiday soiree, these guides have got you covered.

Christmas Movies

 You could watch the commercial-packed versions of the classics on TV, but watching your own copy is more fun.

Top Christmas Movies for Kids

These G-rated movies can be enjoyed by the whole family, especially the overstimulated little ones.

Top Christmas Books

Start a new tradition by taking some time to read the cream of the holiday literature crop.

Christmas Music

Whether you like Bing Crosby or Mariah Carey, there's a Christmas song for everyone--even the Grinch.

Related Guides

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
DE: Weihnachten