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]

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.

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

Sat., Dec. 6, 13, and 20, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun., Dec. 21, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., 1996 San Marco Blvd. in front of San Marco Theatre.

Donations for wrapping will provide veterinary care through St. Francis Animal Hospital for pets in need. For information, visit www.SaintFrancisAnimalHospital.org

Sat., Dec. 13, 1-3 p.m., Main Terminal, Jacksonville International Airport

Students from the piano department of Douglas Anderson School of the Performing Arts will perform Christmas music and classical pieces at the airport.

This fast-paced, fun-filled show is a high-energy celebration of the holiday season. With such classics as “Sleigh Ride,” and “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” Jingle Bell Rock features a live band, talented singers, lots of holiday fun and of course, everyone’s favorite, Santa Claus! This talented cast guides us through the holiday season with rousing energy that keeps the house a-rockin’! Be prepared to have a very merry Christmas with this family holiday event and its contemporary spin on a classic yuletide review.

Bring pets and entire family for a photo with Santa. $10 donation for digital image; $15 includes a print. Donations provide veterinary care for family pets in need. For information, visit www.StFrancisAnimalHospital.org