The holidays begin with festive and fun plans, but all too often end in a mess of frantic errands, gifts that desperately need to be returned and a house turned up-side-down by family and friends. Take one to-do off that list and pass on the cooking, turning to one of the area’s gourmet caterers instead. From finger-friendly apps to full-blown, multi-course feasts, these best bets can have our guests as stuffed as Jolly Saint Nick himself.

Franklin Square was, in recent memory, also known as Philadelphia forgotten square. One of the five original in the city designed by William Penn, it was simply a fading patch of green by the Vine Street Expressway and Ben Franklin Bridge. But thank goodness someone realized the potential, and Franklin Square is now perhaps one of the most popular, drawing families to its Philly-themed carousel, miniature golf course and interactive storytelling by the actors of Historic Philadelphia.

Okay, so perhaps not with Joan Rivers herself. But the wise women behind The Career Wardrobe are holding a costume and cocktail event this Thursday, December 2, at The Wardrobe Boutique, and who better to “host” an eventing of fun, fashion and a few frills than the outspoken chief diva herself?

Saturday errand lists can be epic: pick up the dry cleaning, drop off the dog at the groomers, buy the groceries, sell that Ikea mistake on Craigslist.com. Add in a sleigh-load of holiday shopping that needs to be done and it can be downright exhausting. That’s why we think that as the afternoon rolls around you should stop, take a breather and restore your sanity with a sweet bite or two at the new Sucre.

Philadelphia sees its fair share of famous faces, be it during movie productions or when local-boys-gone-big come back to visit the fam. Small town Media in Delaware County just happens to currently be getting a bit of both, with a twist. The New Adventures of Old Christine star and Emmy Award-winner Wanda Sykes, who happens to live in the area when not filming, is back and spending her holiday taking the stage at The Media Theatre for the Performing Arts.

Today is Thanksgiving, the one day among many when we should stop, look around and realize all that we are so lucky to have. It should also be a time for us to help those around us who may not be so fortunate. As the turkey gives way to shopping, why not give the gift of hope by donating to one of these, or any other, area charities? No one needs another coffee mug, anyway.

Whether you grew up with the blue box or dug into Grandmom’s classic baked version, mac and cheese is a dish that everyone can agree on. Warm, creamy, gooey and delicious, this comfort food is even more inviting when you don’t have to dirty a dish to get it. Head to one of these area establishments and enjoy all of the magic with none of the mess.

Santa’s at the mall and B101.1 is blasting the carols 24/7 — it’s officially the holidays here in Philadelphia. Which means it’s also officially holiday shopping season. And just in time for all of us who have a sports fan on their list (and who among us doesn’t?), Mitchell & Ness has opened a new flagship store.

Once the jewel of the Fairmount Park system, the Horticulture Center was erected in 1976 for the Bicentennial and served as a stunning greenhouse and exhibition hall. Popular for private events, such as weddings and charity events, the center sadly fell into disrepair as the costs of maintaining the unique structure took its toll. But the community wouldn’t allow the loss, rehab began and on Tuesday, October 26, the center reopened as an event destination.