It’s that magical season in New York City. In spite of the even more crowded streets and sidewalks, you’ll find yourself caught up the season with holiday windows, tree lightings and chestnuts roasting. And let’s not forget the Festival of Lights and the lighting of the largest Menorahs at the start of Hanukkah.  We have some fun holiday suggestions. And woof, woof, the Dog Film Festival returns!

Dec. 10. The Dog Film Festival

Dog lovers, hurry to the SVA Theatre tomorrow to see a medley of films celebrating the love between dogs and their people.  To have the full Dog Film Festival experience you’ll want to see both programs – which are appropriate for everyone in the family. Screenings are at 2:45 and 4:45.  SVA Theatre – 333 West 23rd Street, NYC.  Tickets are $15.

The NY Dog Film Festival™ is a philanthropic celebration of the love between dogs and their people, offering dog lovers a shared audience experience of canine-themed films from around the world that inspire, educate and entertain about the human-canine bond. With a New York City premiere every fall, the Festival then travels around the country, supporting local animal welfare groups which bring people and pets together, along with our national partner and beneficiary, Dogs Playing for Life.

Watch the trailer.

Dec. 10. Latkepalooza!

Head to the Museum of Jewish Heritage with the little ones for a fun celebration of the Festival of Lights. Latkepalooza! is a family-oriented, interactive event featuring food, music, and hands-on activities. $10, (Free for Children and Grandchildren of members.) Tickets available in advance (recommended) or sold at the door.

Dec. 12-19. World’s Largest Menorahs.

If you’re in Manhattan, head to the Plaza Hotel where across the street you gather round the 32-foot-high, gold-colored, 4,000-pound steel Menorah. The first lighting is at 5:30 Tuesday. Competing for largest Menorah is the one at Brooklyn Grand Army Plaza in Prospect Park. Lightings at 6PM most evenings, and on Dec. 12^th, there will be a concert and potato latkes too. Get more details.

Dec. 13 to 17.  Big Band Holidays at Lincoln Center

Continuing a beloved New York tradition, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis warms up the House of Swing with soulful renditions of holiday classics. With fresh arrangements, playful improvisation, and entertaining storytelling, they bring out the magic in such classics as Count Basie’s “Jingle Bells,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and Billie Holiday’s “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm.” Get the details.