A look at California's "Christmas Tree Lane"
Every year, the residents of one block in Alameda, California, pull out all the stops when it comes to holiday decorations. Itay Hod shares the story of what's been dubbed "Christmas Tree Lane."
Christmas
Winter weather interrupts some holiday weekend travel
Record holiday travel is expected in the U.S. this year, with the weekend before Christmas projected to be one of the busiest times for transit.
Chicago elf brings joy to children in hospitals
The Chicago group Holiday Heroes seeks to bring joy and light to brave children at 18 different hospitals. Noel Brennan has more.
Holiday shopping and shipping are in full swing
The Christmas rush is on as retailers rejoice over what could be record holiday sales. Elise Preston reports.
Death toll rises in German Christmas market attack
Germany is in shock after the deadly car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg. A 9-year-old child is among at least five people who were killed in the attack. At least 200 more were injured, many critically. As details about the suspect emerged, the community gathered to honor the victims. Anna Noryskiewicz reports.
An owl came down a chimney and perched on a Christmas tree: See the video
A Virginia family had an unexpected visitor come down their chimney this week.
Pope Francis tells Vatican staff to stop gossiping in Christmas speech
Pope Francis has told Vatican bureaucrats to stop speaking ill of one another, calling gossip "an evil that destroys social life."
What we know about suspect in Christmas market attack in Germany
The suspect, identified by local media as 50-year-old Taleb A., was arrested after plowing a black BMW into a Christmas market.
Young dancers take on lead roles in Christmas classic "The Nutcracker"
The New York City Ballet has been performing "The Nutcracker" for decades. Each year, young dancers make their mark on the ballet.
The Dish: Rick Bayless
Chicago-based chef Rick Bayless has spent decades traveling to Mexico, bringing the flavors and traditions back to the United States. He's written nine cookbooks and hosted a PBS cooking show, while his restaurants have earned culinary honors, including Michelin stars. Now, on a special holiday edition of the Dish, Bayless opens up about his annual tradition of spending Christmas in Mexico.
Ben Folds performs "We Could Have This"
Legendary singer-songwriter Ben Folds rose to fame with his band, "Ben Folds Five," before launching a solo career in the early 200s. Since then, he's recorded multiple studio albums and established himself as one of the most ambitious and versatile performers of his generation. This past October, he released his first Christmas collection, "Sleigher," featuring a mix of original songs and reimagined classics. Now from "Sleigher," here is Ben Folds with "We Could Have This."
Ben Folds performs "The Christmas Song"
Legendary singer-songwriter Ben Folds rose to fame with his band, "Ben Folds Five," before launching a solo career in the early 200s. Since then, he's recorded multiple studio albums and established himself as one of the most ambitious and versatile performers of his generation. This past October, he released his first Christmas collection, "Sleigher," featuring a mix of original songs and reimagined classics. Now from "Sleigher," here is Ben Folds with "The Christmas Song."
Ben Folds performs "Me And Maurice"
Legendary singer-songwriter Ben Folds rose to fame with his band, "Ben Folds Five," before launching a solo career in the early 200s. Since then, he's recorded multiple studio albums and established himself as one of the most ambitious and versatile performers of his generation. This past October, he released his first Christmas collection, "Sleigher," featuring a mix of original songs and reimagined classics. Now from "Sleigher," here is Ben Folds with "Me And Maurice."
The Uplift: A weather wonder
A 22-year-old forecasting the weather out of his bedroom is praised for helping people during natural disasters – and gets a big surprise from David Begnaud. And Santa comes early to two U.S. cities to bring Christmas magic to children in need. Plus, more uplifting news.
12/21: Saturday Morning
Government shutdown averted at last minute; How a chef's Christmas tradition informs his cooking year-round.
A unique spin on the classic holiday eggnog
It's the time of year when we indulge in some favorite holiday treats and drinks like eggnog. Chef JJ Johnson, the founder of fast-casual restaurant Field Trip NYC, joins CBS News to showcase several holiday recipes.
Kids inspired by Secret Santa hand out money
An Arizona elementary teacher uses Steve Hartman's "On the Road" stories to teach kindness and character. One about a Secret Santa that gives out money to random strangers has inspired his students to do the same over the holidays -- and this year was no different.
Dozens injured in Germany Christmas market attack
At least two people are dead and dozens more injured after a vehicle plowed into a crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. Authorities say the driver of the car was arrested and that it appears to be a deliberate attack. Elaine Cobbe has details.
Holiday travel rush underway across U.S.
Many Americans are already on the way to their holiday destinations. A record number of travelers are expected to make their way through Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the busiest airport in the U.S. CBS News correspondent Skyler Henry is there with what to expect.
German Christmas market attack update
At least two people were killed and over 60 were injured after a car crashed into a Christmas market in eastern Germany. Authorities arrested a suspect, saying they believe he acted alone in the deliberate act. CBS News national security contributor Sam Vinograd has more details.
Toddler killed in German market attack, police say
At least two people, including a toddler, were killed, and at least 60 more hurt, after a car crashed into a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, in what authorities said appeared to be a deliberate attack. German police said a Saudi man has been arrested, but a motive has not yet been determined. CBS News reporter Anna Noryskiewicz has more.
Details on suspect in crash at German market
More than 60 people were injured and at least two killed Friday after a driver rammed into a crowded Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany. The driver is in custody and local government officials say they suspect the crash was deliberate. CBS News reporter Haley Ott has the latest details.
Death toll in attack at German Christmas market rises to 5; 200 injured
Police say the driver is under arrest after plowing into the crowd at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, killing at least five people - including a 9-year-old - and injuring 200 others.
Starbucks workers strike before holidays
Some Starbucks workers across the U.S. are striking to demand better wages. The strike comes days before the holidays. CBS News Los Angeles' Kara Finnstrom reports.
Will it snow on Christmas? Maps show holiday weather forecast
Dreaming of a white Christmas? Dream on. Only a few areas of the U.S. are likely to see snow in the weather forecast for Christmas 2024.
Israel's Mossad spent years orchestrating Hezbollah pager plot
Retired Israeli case agents behind Mossad's boobytrapped pagers and walkie-talkies in Lebanon explain how they got Hezbollah to buy the devices and the plots' impact on the Middle East.
Trump tapping several who served in first administration for NSC roles
Brian McCormack, a longtime energy consultant, and Andrew Peek, a seasoned Middle East adviser, will take senior roles on the NSC, according to people familiar with the matter.
Mexico fights to dam "iron river" sending guns from U.S. to cartels
While many in the U.S. have lambasted the flow of migrants and drugs from Mexico, the porous border works both ways. Mexico's government says guns from the U.S. are fueling cartel violence.
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen hospitalized after getting bucked off horse
Pillen's office did not specify what injuries he sustained or how serious they were, but noted he was expected to remain in the hospital for several days.
Winter weather interrupts some holiday weekend travel
Record holiday travel is expected in the U.S. this year, with the weekend before Christmas projected to be one of the busiest times for transit.
Rep. Gonzales says "it feels as if Elon Musk is our prime minister"
Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales of Texas compared Elon Musk to a prime minister after the Tesla CEO got involved in a tumultuous funding fight on Capitol Hill this week.
Rep. Kay Granger confirms she has "unforeseen health challenges"
Rep. Kay Granger has not cast a vote in Congress since July and stepped down from the powerful House Appropriations Committee in March.
Poll: Most Americans think government is hiding information about drones
Over half of Americans see the drones that have been spotted over the East Coast as a threat to the U.S.
Several hurt after driver plows through Texas mall; suspect killed by police
The suspect drove through the doors of a JCPenny in Killeen, Texas, and continued inside for "several hundred yards," an official said.
U.S.
More U.S.
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen hospitalized after getting bucked off horse
Pillen's office did not specify what injuries he sustained or how serious they were, but noted he was expected to remain in the hospital for several days.
Drones collide, fall into crowd at holiday show in Florida, FAA says
A holiday drone show just days before Christmas was interrupted when drones collided, officials said.
Trump tapping several who served in first administration for NSC roles
Brian McCormack, a longtime energy consultant, and Andrew Peek, a seasoned Middle East adviser, will take senior roles on the NSC, according to people familiar with the matter.
OpenAI whistleblower Suchir Balaji dead at age 26
Suchir Balaji, a former researcher at OpenAI who openly questioned the legality of its data-gathering practices, died by suicide, authorities said.
Mayorkas says "irresponsible politics" killed a "terrific solution" on the border
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said "a really terrific solution was killed by irresponsible politics" when the bipartisan border deal fell apart earlier this year.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Party City files for bankruptcy, a day after announcing mass layoffs
Party City informed employees in an email on Friday that it was conducting an immediate "mass layoff" at its headquarters.
Senate approves bill to expand Social Security to millions of Americans
Senators approve a bill to expand Social Security benefits to millions of Americans, with President Biden expected to sign it into law.
How much more will it cost to heat your home this winter?
Here's what's driving up home heating costs, and how much families are expected to spend this winter.
IRS sending up to $1,400 to 1 million people. Here's who qualifies.
The IRS said it's sending out checks worth up to $1,400 to 1 million people. Here's what to know about the "special payments."
Feds sue Zelle, alleging nation's biggest banks failed to stop fraud
Government watchdog claims Americans lost hundreds of millions to fraud related to the bank-operated mobile payments network.
Politics
More Politics
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen hospitalized after getting bucked off horse
Pillen's office did not specify what injuries he sustained or how serious they were, but noted he was expected to remain in the hospital for several days.
Trump tapping several who served in first administration for NSC roles
Brian McCormack, a longtime energy consultant, and Andrew Peek, a seasoned Middle East adviser, will take senior roles on the NSC, according to people familiar with the matter.
Rep. Kay Granger confirms she has "unforeseen health challenges"
Rep. Kay Granger has not cast a vote in Congress since July and stepped down from the powerful House Appropriations Committee in March.
Mayorkas says "irresponsible politics" killed a "terrific solution" on the border
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said "a really terrific solution was killed by irresponsible politics" when the bipartisan border deal fell apart earlier this year.
Sen. Joe Manchin on his time in the Senate and what the future holds
Sen. Joe Manchin sat down for an exit interview of sorts with "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan."
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
HealthWatch
CDC releases concerning new flu numbers
Thirteen states reported "high" or "very high" levels of flu-like illness last week, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That's double the number of states from the week before. Ali Bauman reports.
A teen's misdiagnosis led to medication, but surgery led to a cure
Isaac Klapper was 10 years old when he started having episodes of what doctors initially thought was a movement disorder.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Stuffing stockings with skincare? Here's what kids should and shouldn't be using
Skin care is all the rage for teens and tweens these days, but be careful not to give products that could cause more harm than good.
He went in for a colonoscopy. The hospital charged $19,000 for two.
A Chicago man was stuck with a big medical bill after undergoing a colonoscopy that found no evidence of cancer. Here's why.
World
More World
Israeli settlements, and the expanding divide of settlers and Palestinians
Today, upwards of 700,000 Israelis live in settlements which the U.N. calls illegal. "Sunday Morning" talks with two settlers and with Palestinians in the West Bank living on opposite sides of an Israeli security barrier.
German authorities had received tipoffs about Christmas market attack suspect
Police in Magdeburg, Germany, said Sunday that those who died were four women aged 45, 52, 67 and 75, as well as a 9-year-old boy.
U.S. Navy crew ejects safely when jet shot down by likely "friendly fire"
An F/A-18 fighter jet was "mistakenly fired on" by the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, authorities said.
Pope Francis tells Vatican staff to stop gossiping in Christmas speech
Pope Francis has told Vatican bureaucrats to stop speaking ill of one another, calling gossip "an evil that destroys social life."
At least 38 dead after crash between a passenger bus and a truck in Brazil
In 2024, more than 10,000 people died in traffic accidents in Brazil, according to the Ministry of Transportation.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
"Christmas Dance" by Darren Criss
In this web exclusive, Darren Criss and the Young People's Chorus of New York City help "Sunday Morning" celebrate the holiday in a performance of Criss' "Christmas Dance."
Holiday music with Darren Criss: "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"
Darren Criss, the beloved star of television's "Glee," and the Broadway musical "Maybe Happy Ending," helps "Sunday Morning" celebrate Christmas with a performance of the Hugh Martin-Ralph Blane standard, "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas."
Music with Darren Criss: "Happy Holidays/The Holiday Season"
Darren Criss (the beloved star of television's "Glee," and the Broadway musical "Maybe Happy Ending") and the Young People's Chorus of New York City help "Sunday Morning" celebrate Christmas with a performance of "Happy Holidays/The Holiday Season."
Darren Criss on counting his lucky stars
Darren Criss became a fan favorite on the hit TV series "Glee," and won an Emmy for "American Crime Story." Now he's starring in the acclaimed musical "Maybe Happy Ending." He talks about his road to Broadway, and his credo that "Life is a cabaret."
Darren Criss on "Maybe Happy Ending"
Darren Criss became a fan favorite on the hit TV series "Glee," and won an Emmy for "American Crime Story." Now he's starring in the acclaimed musical "Maybe Happy Ending." He talks with correspondent Kelefa Sanneh about his road to Broadway, his blessings and losses, and his credo that "Life is a cabaret."
Technology
More Technology
Why drone hysteria has taken off
Alleged drone sightings have been multiplying exponentially, with more than 5,000 reported in the past few weeks. But experts say the majority of reports about unusual lights in the sky are probably anything but drones.
Why drone hysteria has taken off
By most accounts, alleged drone sightings have been multiplying exponentially, with more than 5,000 reported in just the past few weeks. But experts say the majority of reports about unusual lights in the sky are probably anything but drones. Correspondent Tom Hanson reports.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Supreme Court agrees to hear case about TikTok ban
The Supreme Court said Wednesday it will hear an appeal from TikTok over a federal law that would ban the social media giant if it is not sold by its Chinese parent company. Jan Crawford has more.
Teen victim of deepfake porn urges Congress to pass "Take It Down Act"
Elliston Berry's life was turned upside down after a photo she posted on Instagram was digitally altered online to be pornographic.
Science
More Science
What to know about the winter solstice, 2024's shortest day
The 2024 winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, happens on Saturday, Dec. 21, and is marked with traditions and celebrations around the world.
Class-action lawsuit over plastic recycling
This week a group of plaintiffs in Missouri, Kansas, California and Florida filed a class-action lawsuit against dozens of companies and organizations, claiming they've falsely promoted how easy it is to recycle plastics. CBS News Los Angeles climatologist Marina Jurica has the details.
Why fish, birds and other animals yawn too, according to an expert
Humans aren't alone when it comes to yawning — all vertebrates do it. But why? An expert explains the likely reason behind this "evolutionarily ancient" act.
Americans coexisted with 4-ton sloths for millennia, research shows
Early Americans may have spent millennia sharing prehistoric savannas and wetlands with enormous beasts, research shows.
EPA tackling pollution in at-risk communities
The Environmental Protection Agency under President Biden created a new Office of Environmental Justice that seeks to address pollution levels in disadvantaged and marginalized communities. However, there is concern that the incoming Trump administration could do away with the new department. David Schechter reports.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Woman killed after being set on fire on NYC subway
A suspect is in custody after a woman was killed after being set on fire inside a New York City subway car on Sunday. Tammy Mutasa has the latest.
Woman set on fire while sleeping on NYC subway, NYPD says
A person of interest was taken into custody after a woman died after being lit on fire while she was asleep on an F train in Brooklyn, police say.
Who killed JonBenét Ramsey? Her dad believes DNA could reveal killer
A look back at how "48 Hours" covered the 1996 Christmastime murder of JonBenét Ramsey in 2002, and what her father John Ramsey says about the unsolved Colorado case nearly 28 years later.
Will convicted wife killer Scott Peterson get a new trial?
After California man's death sentence is overturned, there's a renewed push to clear him.
Several hurt after driver plows through Texas mall; suspect killed by police
The suspect drove through the doors of a JCPenny in Killeen, Texas, and continued inside for "several hundred yards," an official said.
Space
More Space
Discovery of "tipped over" black hole surprises NASA scientists
New analysis techniques and decades-old research helped NASA scientists identify an unusual black hole in a distant galaxy.
Why are the Boeing Starliner astronauts stuck in space?
Here's why NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore are stuck, but not stranded, at the International Space Station after launching into space in June.
NASA delayes return date for astronauts
NASA has delayed the return date for Boeing's Starliner astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez reports on the decision to keep the two in space.
NASA leader weighs in on Elon Musk, SpaceX and plans for moon rocket
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson says he's optimistic the Trump administration will support the space agency's agenda.
Boeing Starliner crew's return delayed again
Two astronauts who have been stuck in space since June will have to wait until at least the end of March to come home after NASA on Wednesday again pushed back their return date. Derrick Pitts, chief astronomer for the Franklin Institute, joined CBS News to discuss what's causing the delays.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
The Scott Peterson case: New evidence?
Peterson's death sentence for the murder of his pregnant wife Laci has been overturned. Now his supporters are pushing for a complete retrial.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Texas couple investigates teen daughter's unusual death
Cayley Mandadi's mother and stepfather go to extreme lengths to prove her death was no accident.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
How toy libraries cut down on waste of spending
With the holidays fast approaching, some are turning to toy libraries for their gifting needs. Toy libraries look much like toy stores, but the items are there to be borrowed instead of bought. Natalie Brand takes a closer look at how they work.
A look at California's "Christmas Tree Lane"
Every year, the residents of one block in Alameda, California, pull out all the stops when it comes to holiday decorations. Itay Hod shares the story of what's been dubbed "Christmas Tree Lane."
Some Syrians living abroad returning home
Many Syrians who have been living abroad, some for decades, are returning home after the fall of the Assad regime. But there remain mixed feelings of hope and trepidation for some. Imtiaz Tyab reports.
Woman killed after being set on fire on NYC subway
A suspect is in custody after a woman was killed after being set on fire inside a New York City subway car on Sunday. Tammy Mutasa has the latest.
Workers divided over sale of U.S. Steel
U.S. Steel workers are divided over the possible sale of the company to Japanese manufacturer Nippon Steel. President Biden and President-elect Donald Trump have both voiced opposition to the deal, and Mr. Biden may signal an official stance on trying to block the deal as early as Monday. Erica Brown reports.