For most people, the holiday season is a festive time filled with family, friends, food, fun, and of course gifts!  Sadly, some children have never felt the warmth and joy this special season brings.  Children’s Home Society of Florida serves children who have suffered from abuse and neglect, and we want to ensure these children experience a happy holiday season that they will hold in their hearts forever. Together we can make this a reality.

Donations can be delivered to the CHS Buckner office at 3027 San Diego Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207 between 8AM-4:30PM from November 24th through December 12th.  If you would like to schedule a donation drop-off outside of normal business hours, contact Sarah N. Smith at 904-493-7797.  Please donate all gifts unwrapped or in gift bags.

Dec. 3 – 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Old St. Andrews, 317 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd. across the street from Veterans Memorial Arena

The Jacksonville Historical Society’s annual Gingerbread Extravaganza showcases gingerbread and confection creations from traditional houses to animals and fairy tale themes. Adults $5, children 3-16 $3 suggested donations. Special Gingerbread Extravaganza activities and fieldtrips are also available to schools, seniors and other groups.  For more information, (904) 665-0064 or [email protected]

A show themed “Boxwoods and Bow-ties” will feature vintage and postmodern art and antiques, along with lectures and workshops, all to benefit the Women’s board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital. An opening night party will be held Dec. 5. (904) 202-2886

Experience the timeless tale of Chris Van Allsburg’s The Polar Express as the Jacksonville Symphony brings the book to life with an orchestra, chorus and vocalist. www.Jaxsympony.org

Dr. Timothy Snyder conducts the choirs of Jacksonville University in a glorious tapestry of favorite holiday motets, solos and Christmas Carols from around the world sung by the choir with a special audience sing-along as well. Reception follows in the Parish Hall. Free and open to public. Visit www.allsaintsjax.org for more information or call (904) 737-8488.

Zany holiday event to benefit Unity Plaza park as well as several children’s charities. Includes Celebrity Ugly Holiday Sweater Fashion Show, casino, bands and more. Register at www.jaxholidaybash.com

Meet Chef Jamie Geller, author of Joy of Kosher, at a cooking demo, tasting and book signing event. For details, www.winndixie.com/chanukah

CenterState Bank will host a movie night, showing The Polar Express, serving popcorn, hot chocolate and cookies. Santa Claus will be available for photos ($15 for a 5×7)

Fri., Dec. 12, 8 p.m. and Sat., Dec. 13, 2 p.m. & 8 p.m., The Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth St.

This holiday tradition sponsored by Walgreens benefits Dreams Come True. For tickets call (904) 355-2787; visit www.jaxnutcracker.org

Sat., Dec. 13, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Prime Osborn Convention Center, 1000 Water Street

Largest one-day toy giveaway in the area; up to 8,000 children to receive a new toy. Open to children in need age 12 or younger, first-come, first-served. Event begins with a ribbon cutting by Santa Claus. For details, call (904) 350-1616.