Keep your live Christmas tree lush and safe this holiday season with a few simple steps.

Start by trimming about half an inch off the trunk before placing it in the stand.

Fill the tree stand with water immediately, and top it off every day—a fresh tree can easily drink up to a gallon daily.

Only use fresh tap water—skip any additives or homemade mixes.

For best results, place the tree away from heat sources such as radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight, and opt for LED lights to minimize drying.

If your home air is dry, a humidifier nearby can help keep the needles intact.

With regular care, your tree will stay greener, emit a wonderful scent, and shine brightly throughout the season.

Hanukkah, the eight-day Festival of Lights, honors the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem over two thousand years ago.

In the 2nd century BCE, the Jewish Maccabees bravely resisted Seleucid Greek oppression, reclaiming their temple and faith.

With only one day’s oil left for the menorah, a miracle allowed the flame to burn for eight nights, inspiring the holiday’s duration.

Hanukkah shines as a testament to religious freedom and cultural resilience.

Families kindle menorahs, share stories, and savor fried favorites like latkes and sufganiyot, celebrating the miracle of light.

Communities unite for menorah lightings and joyous festivities, including public events in Washington, D.C. and San Diego from December 14 to 22, 2025.

Hanukkah’s enduring message reminds all to cherish hope, stand firm in faith, and embrace tradition in the face of adversity.

🎄 Holiday Light Shows and Drive-Through Experiences (Dec 19–25, 2025)

Holiday Light Shows & Drive-Through Experiences

Magic of Lights at Jones Beach (through Dec. 30)

Jones BeachState Park, Ocean Parkway

Sun-Thu: 5-10pm, Fri-Sat: 5-11pm

Starting at $20/car online, $30 at gate

Girl Scouts' Holiday Light Show & Enchanted Forest (through Dec. 30)

Smith Point County Park in Shirley features both a drive-through display and a walk-through Enchanted Forest option on weekends and December 26-30

Mon-Thu: 5-9pm, Fri-Sun: 5-10pm, Dec. 16-23 & 26-30: 5-10pm

Tickets start at $22

Riverhead Holiday Light Show & Santa's Village (through Dec. 31, select dates)

Splish Splash Drive, Calverton

Opens at 5pm, closing times vary

$25/vehicle

Bayville Winter Wonderland (weekends in Dec. plus Dec. 26-Jan. 1)

• Bayville Adventure Park features a Christmas village with various festive family attractions
• 8 Bayville Avenue, Bayville
• $22-26

The festive season is a time for joy and reconnection with loved ones.

But certain sensitive topics can quickly disrupt harmony at the table.

To keep gatherings positive, avoid conversations about personal finances, relationship status, or heated political views.

Steer clear of comments on appearance, unsolicited parenting advice, or probing into health and career updates.

Family planning questions, religious debates, and reminders of past mistakes can also be deeply uncomfortable.

Instead of comparisons or judgment, celebrate each person’s individuality and achievements.

Should a conversation veer into sensitive territory, gently guide it toward shared interests, lighthearted stories, or upcoming family plans.

By focusing on what unites rather than divides, you help create a warm, memorable holiday atmosphere for everyone.