5 Holiday Things We Love

Fun glasses fill your vision with holiday images

I love Christmas so much that my family often teases me for my starry-eyed ambition in holiday planning. These Holiday Specs ($2.99, Ben Franklin) lets everyone see the world as I see it, turning every tiny point of light on the Christmas tree into a star. There are several versions that split light into Santa faces, gingerbread men or other holiday images, but these are my favorite to wear while staring at the tree in front of Honolulu Hale. The paper frames make you look a bit kooky, but passers-by barely notice in the dark, and the effect is well worth a moment’s embarrassment. Visit www.holidayspecs.com.

— Donica Kaneshiro

Memberships let families fully experience attractions

My favorite present to give is an annual family membership to somewhere tailor-made for kids. I figure it ensures family time for the tykes, plus memberships offer discounts on food, gift shop purchases and classes, and access to party facilities. At the Honolulu Zoo, family membership starts at $55; call 926-3191. Other venues: Waikiki Aquarium, $60 and up, 923-9741; Hawai‘i Nature Center, $50, 955-0100; Bishop Museum, $70 and up, 847-8296; Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center, $100 and up, 524-5437; Honolulu Academy of Arts, $95 and up, 532-8724. All these organizations offer other types of memberships as well.

— Joleen Oshiro

Eggnog flavor adds Christmas cheer to delicious cheesecake

With Christmas around the corner, baker/punk rocker Otto is offering a rich, dense and delicious eggnog cheesecake that’s not really eggnog but is just as flavorful as the seasonal drink, thanks to some holiday spirits. “My recipe has nutmeg and a little over a tablespoon of alcohol, a combination of rum and brandy that’s more for flavor,” said the single-monikered Otto, who has come up with more than 150 varieties during the 20-plus years he’s been turning out cheesecakes in his Chinatown bakeshop.

To order this seasonal favorite, call or text 834-6886 with your name and phone number and what size cake you want — 6-inch ($15), 8-inch ($27) or 10-inch ($35); allow three days before pickup. Ottocake is at 1160 Smith St. near Beretania.

— Gary Chun

Find tasty gingerbread and more at Ward shop

Whimsical decorations and colorful treats are enticing reasons to visit the Honolulu Chocolate Company at Ward Centre. The store sells an array of holiday delectables including pretzels and Oreo cookies dipped in white chocolate and peppermint candy. Those treats may be yummy confections, but it’s this guy with his gumdrop buttons and adorable face that caught my eye. The gingerbread man is $16.95 (a female version is also available). Call 591-2997.

— Nancy Arcayna

Diamond Head Theatre ticket packages perfect for stage lovers

Guys looking to impress with their sensitive side and avoid holiday mall mania can purchase the gift of entertainment from Diamond Head Theatre. The “Tinsel ’n Tickets” package ($105) is a great deal, providing a pair of tickets to three of DHT’s four remaining shows, “The Butler Did It,” “Titanic the Musical,”“Xanadu” and “Singin’ in the Rain.” Visit the box office at 520 Makapuu Ave. or call 733-0274 weekdays. The tickets can be mailed directly to the recipient. For details and show schedules, check www.diamondheadtheatre.com.

— Christie Wilson