Nation Dec 22 A therapist’s advice for dealing with the pain of family estrangement during the holidays By John Yang, Claire Mufson, Andrew Chambers
Nation Dec 05 Thinking about holiday volunteering? Here’s how to make it go the distance Experts explain how your winter holiday volunteering - and donations - can make the greatest impact. By Hannah Grabenstein
Nation Dec 01 Watch 6:12 Tips for navigating political divisions to find common ground at holiday gatherings The presidential election laid bare political fault lines across the country, stark divisions that can be even more intense when they involve loved ones. William Brangham speaks with Jamil Zaki, a professor of psychology at Stanford University and author of… By William Brangham, Andrew Corkery, Claire Mufson, Kaisha Young
Nation Nov 28 Watch 6:00 Love it or hate it, pumpkin spice is everywhere this time of year. How did it take over? While this season’s politics and headlines may lead to heated exchanges over the Thanksgiving table, economics correspondent Paul Solman looks at the history of a different controversy that is ubiquitous during the holidays: pumpkin spice. By Paul Solman, Maea Lenei Buhre
Economy Nov 28 Why retailers still see Black Friday as the high point of the holiday shopping season In the U.S., analysts envision a solid holiday shopping season, though perhaps not as robust as last year’s, with many shoppers under financial pressure and cautious with their discretionary spending despite the easing of inflation. By Anne D'Innocenzio
Dec 23 Analysis: How decorative glitter contributes to microplastic pollution By Kamran Mahroof, The Conversation Five reasons experts advise avoiding glitter, even on holiday cards or baubles. Continue reading
Dec 22 Few airport delays as busiest holiday travel season in years is off to a smooth start By Alexandra Olson, Associated Press U.S. airlines are predicting a blockbuster holiday season and have projected confidence they can handle the crowds after hiring thousands of pilots, flight attendants and other workers, seeking to avoid the delays and suspensions that marred travel last year. Continue reading
Dec 16 How these ‘warm’ spices from the tropics became staples of winter cooking By Serina DeSalvio, The Conversation Cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger feature in many dishes and drinks and are an unmistakable part of the scent profile we associate with the holiday season. Continue reading
Dec 23 The food science behind what makes leftovers tasty (or not) By Bella Isaacs-Thomas Here’s some science you can keep in mind when you’re finishing off the leftovers in your fridge, plus a few tips for safer cooking and eating. Continue reading
Dec 22 Inflation is a factor behind an increase in holiday procrastinators this year By Anne D'Innocenzio, Associated Press Inflation is driving many consumers to put off their holiday shopping until the last minute. Continue reading