Good morning, Syracuse.

After stolen SNAP benefits drained grocery funds, generous locals helped Syracuse families by purchasing Price Chopper gift cards and arranging catered dinners.

Neighbors stepped in after a syracuse.com report to ensure families could still enjoy a cherished holiday tradition.

AAA of Western and Central New York forecasts record holiday travel next two weeks with 122 million people expected to travel 50+ miles.

The agency advises early route planning and reserving airport parking, warning that gas is $3.05/gal (peak traffic from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.).

Community advocate Mary Nelson is hosting her annual Christmas giveaway at Nottingham High School today from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. for nearly 4,000 children; donations of baby dolls and toy cars are accepted at her youth center at 2849 South Salina Street (registration ends at 5 p.m.)

This weekend brings many holiday events across Central New York.

The Rosamond Gifford Zoo hosts animal enrichment on Sunday, Prison City Brewing features a festive market Saturday from 3–8 p.m., and local concerts, markets, and a solstice walk are set at venues including Crouse Hinds Theater and Baldwinsville sites (plus more events statewide).

Vacant storefronts on South Salina Street are getting a makeover from student artwork by over 15 local Pre-K classes, organized by the Downtown Committee.

The festive displays featuring holiday themes are on view through the end of January.

John Palmer was honored with the Maxwell School’s Cramer Horizon Award during an early fall ceremony at Eggers Hall attended by faculty and staff + students and alumni.

Palmer, who served as dean and professor since 1988, was recognized for his lifelong contributions that have shaped the school’s mission.

Thirty-six New Yorkers officially became U.S. citizens when the halted naturalization ceremony resumed after a brief federal pause.

New citizens must update records with Social Security, register to vote, and sponsor family members.

The Syracuse Men's Basketball Team visited pediatric patients at Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital Friday, Dec.

19, where kids played video games + made slime with their favorite players.

In Ostrom Avenue Podcast episode 252, hosts AJ Myers and Griffin Bloomstein discussed Syracuse men’s basketball struggles, women's basketball wins, and the upcoming transfer portal for football.

WAER alum Cooper Boardman shared his insights on Syracuse athletics on the show.

Syracuse Speed Dating Event for Singles Aged 36-49

2-4 p.m. — P.F. Chang's — Ticket required — Meet up to 12 potential matches in a fun and efficient speed dating format.

World Ballet Company - The Nutcracker

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Crouse Hinds Concert Theater — Tickets from $86 — Experience the magic of holiday ballet with the World Ballet Company's enchanting performance of The Nutcracker.

Disney On Ice - Mickey's Search Party

4:00-5:30 p.m. — Upstate Medical Arena at The Oncenter War Memorial — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical journey with Mickey and friends in this enchanting ice show.

Open Mic Night with ATTAMIZK & Friends

8:30-11 p.m. — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $7.17 — Enjoy a night of live Americana music at Syracuse's vibrant open mic event.

Disney On Ice: Mickey's Search Party

4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Oncenter Civic Center Theaters — Ticket prices vary — Experience an enchanting ice show featuring Mickey and friends on a thrilling adventure.

New Year’s Eve Party with Sophistafunk and Special Guests

8:30 PM - 1:00 AM — Funk 'n Waffles — Tickets starting at $29.30 — Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a night of funk, hip hop, and special guests including sax legend Sam Kininger.

Scars N’ Stripes Holiday Hangover

8 PM - 12 AM — Middle Ages Brewing Company — Check event page for ticket pricing — Rock out with Scars N’ Stripes as they bring high energy to chase away the holiday blues.

Stanford Cardinal at Syracuse Orange Women's Basketball

2-4 p.m. — JMA Wireless Dome — Ticket prices vary — Witness the exciting women's basketball rivalry between Stanford and Syracuse.