What better way to meet and take photos with Santa or the Grinch than at a special breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. And the suburbs are brimming with them this season. But take note: reservations are going quickly.

Northwest Suburban High School District 214 has ordered an audit of its purchasing card spending practices after a former employee was charged with misusing a district credit card.

Make plans for tree lightings and productions of “The Nutcracker” throughout the area, Naperville Holiday Parade of Lights, Christmas at Cantigny Light Show, the Vienna Boys Choir, “Elf The Musical” on stage and more.

From the beloved “Christmas Carol” to contemporary satire and seasonal tuners to family-friendly fare, when it comes to holiday theater, suburban and city stages offer something for everyone.

A community tree lighting is a great way to kick off the holidays. Here’s where they are happening around the suburbs.

Make plans for Aurora Christkindlmarket, Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic, Chicago Sports Spectacular in Rosemont, Turkey Trots, winter festivals, Santa sightings, Thanksgiving events and more.

Survey data shows public support for a potential $400 million referendum for facility upgrades in Northwest Suburban High School District 214, but some school board members remain skeptical about a tax increase passing at the ballot box.

Make plans for Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Reindeer Run, “Swan Lake” at Waukegan’s Genesee, IllumiBrew at Morton Arboretum, the Grand Kyiv Ballet’s production of “The Nutcracker” at the Athenaeum Theatre in Chicago and more.

Make plans for the Grayslake Antique Bottle and Advertising Show, the Chicago Toy and Game Fair in Rosemont, Veterans Day events throughout the suburbs and more.