1. Blood drive. The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive today at the West Newton YMCA. The drive runs from 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. If you are interested in donating, contact Philip Wong at (617) 244-6050 x3014.

2. Community menorah lighting. Hanukkah begins tonight at sundown, so let the community events begin! Join friends and neighbors at the Newton Centre Green this evening to light the community menorah. The event, which is sponsored by Chabad of Newton Centre, will feature donuts, dreidels, gelt and gifts for the kids. The lighting event starts at 5:30 p.m. at the Green, which is located at the corner of Langley Road and Centre Street.

3. Mayor's party. The Newton Democratic City Committee recently announced in an email that Mayor Setti Warren will host his second annual holiday party tonight at the West Street Tavern in Nonantum. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and interested attendees can RSVP online. 

4. Menorah lighting at the mall. The Mall at Chestnut Hill and Chabad at Chestnut Hill will host the annual Hanukkah menorah lighting at the mall tonight at 5:30. The event will feature family entertainment, live music and holiday treats. 

5. Gingerbread cookie decorating. The Newton Free Library will hold a gingerbread decorating event today for kids ages 3-6. Stop by at 2 p.m. and join the fun in the Druker Auditorium.