The holidays don't only have to be about stress and shrinking wallets. How about making gifts that mean something? Donating time and money to worthy organizations? Attending events that embrace your playful (or wrathful) antagonism against this consumerist season? Check out the Guardian's ultimate guide to these options, as well as green gifts, efficient neighborhood shopping, and more.

Happy challah-days

Take what you like, leave the rest

'Tis the season for getting even

Create a celebration that makes your family as uncomfortable as theirs makes you

In the spirit

The Guardian's guide to holiday giving

She's crafty

DIY mini altars

Buy by Hand

Places to make and buy homemade gifts

Good things, small packages

Nifer Fahrion's step-by-step guide to making your own tiny hat

Shopping for slackers

Neighborhood shortcuts for an efficient gift search

All I want for Christmas...

Locals talk about gifts that keep on giving and the ones they wish they could've given back

Fuck the holidays

Celebrating, ignoring, or just plain flipping the bird at Christmas

I'm dreaming of a green Christmas

A guide to ecofriendly gifts

Gluhwein by any other name

A miniguide to mulled wine

Nog on the noggin

Jon Beckhardt explores local producers of the holiday treat