HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2024

Holiday Gift Guide: Editor's Letter

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Good morning! 

I’m writing this in the November drought. There’s no hint of rain (much less snow) for the next week or more, and certainly not the seven or eight inches of precipitation that we’re told we need to get back to normal. 

It’s hard to shake off the feeling that things should be different now, as Thanksgiving approaches and the December holidays wait. Shouldn’t there be snow? Consistent cold?

As if the holidays are only about the weather. 

It’s not true, of course. Whatever you celebrate, however you celebrate, the holidays are a thing of tradition and friends and family and love and giving. 

In this year’s holiday gift guide, Liam Mayo consulted local residents for tips on what to give the elders and the young in your life. What gifts are meaningful when it feels as though the giftee has (or could buy) anything they need or want? 

Not to sound like clickbait, but the answers might surprise you. 

The holidays are about food, of course, and with an assist from River Reporter food columnist Jude Waterston, we looked at traditional eating. In a time when celebration focused on food, what did people eat?

Does family time at the holidays involve films—but the usual heartwarming fare does nothing for you? We canvassed our friends and family members for other things to watch, so everyone can enjoy themselves.

Don’t forget your pets. Barbara Winfield shares tips on appropriate decorations and treats for the animals in your life—as well as how to celebrate in a way that won’t stress out your furry loved ones. 

Looking for something to do? Jennifer Snedeker has put together an exhaustive list of holiday events. It’s fine to have some time playing video games or watching movies or eating—but don’t forget to get outside and enjoy the season.

Even if it’s warm or snowless or otherwise different.

Annemarie Schuetz

Section editor

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