Holiday plans? Map shows real-time COVID-19 risk for gatherings, by county

A real-time map shows the risk of encountering someone infected with COVID-19 at an upcoming holiday gathering, based on the number in attendance and the county in which the event is held.

Biden coronavirus adviser warns US facing ‘darkest’ days of entire pandemic

President-elect Joe Biden’s coronavirus task force member Dr. Michael Osterholm warned on Tuesday that the “virus is really dangerous” and the holiday season will be the worst "period of the entire pandemic."

Coronavirus Christmas: Area malls offering contactless, virtual visits with Santa

This year, Santa and his elves are working extra hard at a number of area malls to make guests feel comfortable, offering a number of contactless experiences.

Google Trends reveals most popular Thanksgiving side dish by state

“We examined over 20 Thanksgiving classics. Some controversial decisions were made, including counting gravy as a side,” Zippia wrote.

NY police investigate after razor blade found in child's Halloween candy

Police in upstate New York are investigating after a parent found a razor blade embedded in a piece of their child's Halloween candy.

Trick-or-treaters celebrate Halloween 2020 style, amid coronavirus protocols

Halloween 2020 will be remembered as a Halloween like no one has ever seen before. People tried to enjoy the holiday as best they could, masks, social distancing and all.

Washing Halloween candy wrappers will reduce COVID-19 risk, researchers find

According to researchers at the University of California, the risk of contracting COVID-19 from Halloween candy could be reduced to near zero if candy givers wash their hands and wash the candy packaging with dish soap, a new study found.

COVID-19 pandemic reinvents holiday hiring needs for retailers

The push to hire temporary workers has begun in earnest this holiday season, in some cases weeks earlier than last year. But the pandemic has reshaped the kinds of jobs retailers are recruiting for.

Levine: Avoid holiday gatherings to slow spread of virus

Dr. Rachel Levine cited small gatherings as a driver of the recent spike in COVID-19 both in the state and nationally.

Pope Francis ends public audiences, eyes Christmas as virus surges

Ambassadors to the Vatican were informed recently that Christmas would be essentially a virtual affair for the diplomatic corps this year.

7-year-old celebrates Halloween with ‘Lion King’ VHS costume

Max, 7, used hot glue, foam board, duct tape, posters and a Styrofoam cooler to dress up as a VHS copy of the Disney classic “The Lion King.”