Today

A CHRISTMAS STORY: Or to be more precise, Christmas stories, told by Santa himself (and his elf entourage) at the World Financial Center’s Winter Garden. After giving St. Nick an idea of what to leave under the tree, kids can hear everything from “Olive, the Other Reindeer” to “Fancy Nancy: Splendiferous Christmas” and more, plus pose for classic take-home pics. (Word to the wise: Santa breaks for lunch between 1 and 2 p.m.) Today, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; tomorrow, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; free (photo packages start at $15). 200 Vesey St., at West Street; 212-945-0505, artsworldfinancialcenter.com

SWEET DREAMS: Visions of sugarplums (whatever they are) will surely be dancing in your head at the New York Botanical Garden’s annual Gingerbread Adventures display. Don’t miss the 20th anniversary of the NYBG Holiday Train Show while you’re there (reservations are recommended). 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., free with admission ($20 for adults, $10 for kids). Bronx River Parkway and Fordham Road; 718-817-8700, nybg.org

TOMORROW

LIGHTS FANTASTIC: You can’t top the 92nd Street Y’s annual Hanukkah Festival for traditional, kid-friendly fun, including dreidel-decorating, menorah-making and, this year, a live performance from the Shababa Mamas. 10:30 a.m., $15. 1395 Lexington Ave., between 92nd and 91st streets; 212-415-5500, 92y.org

MONKEY AROUND: Who says Santa skips the zoo? One he definitely doesn’t miss is Prospect Park Zoo, where kids can watch baboons, meerkats and other wild things receive Presents to the Animals. (Hint: They’re all edible.) 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., $8 for adults, $5 for kids. 450 Flatbush Ave., at Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn; 718-399-7339, prospectparkzoo.org

JINGLE BELL ROCK: If the usual carols are too calm for your taste, the Suzi Shelton Band’s Third Annual Rockin’ Holiday Party at the Bell House in Brooklyn might be more your speed. Shelton’s happy, peppy tunes have made her a kids’ music superstar around these parts. Snacks from Dizzy’s Diner! 11:30 a.m., $12. 149 Seventh St., between Second and Third avenues; 718-643-6510, thebellhouseny.com