December 7: Alex Prud’homme at O&CO.
Join Alex Prud’homme, Julia Child's grandnephew, as he recounts stories about Julia and reads from her memoir, My Life in France, which he co-authored. He will also be available to sign books, which might make a great present for someone on your holiday shopping list. O&CO. store, Grand Central Terminal, Graybar Passage--Lexington Ave & 42nd St. (212-973-1472), 6:00 pm, Free.

December 8 - 17: Gingerbread Homes for Animals
Pastry chefs from Brasserie 8 1/2, Cake Man Raven, Dona, Peanut Butter & Co., and others will be displaying animal inspired gingerbread houses at this exhibit hosted by Rational Animal, a non-profit organization committed to increasing public awareness about NYC’s at-risk animals, and the ASPCA. 10am - 7pm daily, in the famous Chelsea Market located at 75 9th Avenue, between 15th and 16th streets. Free.

December 12: The Art of the Latke
Tis the season for latkes, and Neil Kleinberg of Clinton St. Baking Co. (who knows a thing or two about pancakes) will be flipping pancakes of the potato persuasion at a free cooking demonstration. He'll be handing out recipes and samples of his handiwork as part of the Brooklyn Public Library’s series on holiday foods. Central Library, 1 Grand Army Plaza at Eastern Pkwy, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. 7pm. For more information, call 718-230-2100.

December 13: Danny Meyer at Bottlerocket
Danny Meyer reads from his new book, Setting The Table: The Transforming Power Of Hospitality In Business, which outlines the origins of his entrepreneurial spirit, love of food, dedication to customer service and his philanthropic interests. 6-8 p.m. Discussion, wine tasting, book signing, Bottlerocket Wine & Spirit, 5 West 19th Street at 5th Ave. 212-929-2323. Free, No reservations required.

December 13: Unwind with Wine: Affordable Holiday Sparklers
Share some bubbles with Eric Asimov of the New York Times at this three course tasting dinner. Eric will guide you through his selection of six affordable sparklers, ranging from $20 to $30 a bottle, and dinner will be prepared by Chef Pnina Peled of Ristorante Cinque Terre. Purchase tickets in advance online or by calling 212-721-2090. Ristorante Cinque Terre, Jolly Hotel Madison Towers, 22 E 38th St at Madison Ave. 6:30–8:30pm. $85.