People share what's giving the holidays, 2024 meaning
CBS News spoke with people from a variety of backgrounds and faith traditions about what they're thinking about this holiday season.
Christmas
Americans reflect on holiday season, 2024
CBS News asked people from across the United States about their favorite traditions during Christmas and the holiday season. These are their reflections as 2024 nears.
What's open on Christmas Eve? See the hours for top retailers.
Here's where you can find which stores, restaurants, fast food chains and grocery stores are open on Christmas Eve.
NASA releases new image of "Christmas Tree Cluster"
NASA this week released a new image of a celestial formation known as the "Christmas Tree Cluster." The stars appear to form the glowing shape of a tree.
Florida town maintains year-round holiday spirit
The post office for the town of Christmas, Florida, keeps its Christmas decorations up year-round, but it's during the holidays when it sees the most visitors. Cristian Benavides has more.
Here's how NORAD tracks Santa on his Christmas travels
NORAD first started tracking Santa in 1955. This is what it looks like behind the scenes.
Rare look at the Hot Wheels design process
Hot Wheels have delighted children and adults alike for over half a century. First introduced in 1968, millions of the miniature vehicles are wrapped and waiting to be opened Christmas morning. CBS News' Jamie Yuccas is here with a behind-the-scenes look at how the cars are designed.
Record number of people set to travel
This holiday season is expected to be the busiest since 2020, and new records are being set despite bad weather in some regions. According to AAA, more than 115 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from their home, and a record 7.5 million people are set to fly between today and New Year's Day. CBS News' Astrid Martinez has everything you need to know.
A man turned to strangers to bring Christmas joy to a grieving neighbor
When Donald Wilson lost the mother of his three children to a stroke, he was left alone, struggling to parent them while keeping a fulltime job. Then an unlikely neighbor came to his aid.
What airlines took from 2022 holiday meltdown
Millions of people are taking to the roads and at the nation's airports as they head to their holiday destinations. CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave is following things from LAX.
How Christmas trees became popular
The origins of the Christmas tree tradition can be traced back to Europe. CBS News' Lana Zak looks back at history and the evolution of the holiday season symbol.
Is your Christmas tree causing your allergies to flare?
Experts say "Christmas Tree Syndrome" isn't a reaction to the tree itself, but to weed pollen and mold spores collecting on it. Here's what to know about reducing the risk of symptoms.
Christmas trees might flare your allergies
'Tis the season for sneezing and coughing, but it could be what's inside your house this holiday season that's making you feel lousy. CBS News' Jarred Hill shares how your Christmas tree can be causing indoor allergies to flare up.
How to talk about the economy over holidays
The economy and inflation are still weighing on the minds of many Americans and they're likely to be a topic of conversation at some holiday gatherings with friends and loved ones. Aditya Bhave, senior U.S. economist for Bank of America, joined CBS News with pointers on how to talk economics with your family.
Airlines confident going into Christmas
Holiday travel is kicking into high gear with people across the country hitting the roads and skies. CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave is at Los Angeles International Airport with a look at how the weekend is shaping up.
Millions brave wet weather for holiday travel
We're into the final countdown for Christmas travel, with more than 39 million Americans expected to fly and nearly 104 million hitting the roads — if the weather cooperates. CBS News' Kris Van Cleave reports from Los Angeles.
12/22: CBS News Mornings
Holiday travel rush ramps up across the country; Pope Francis prepares for Christmas, New Year's celebrations.
War cancels Christmas events in Bethlehem
Christmas events in Bethlehem are canceled this year because of the Israel-Hamas war. CBS News' Chris Livesay speaks to Christians in Bethlehem about their desire for peace.
The Uplift: A Santa to believe in
A man hopes to bring representation and diversity to the role of Santa Claus. A ballerina from Minnesota earns an iconic holiday role in New York City. Julia Roberts tells Gayle King where she thinks some of her most beloved characters ended up.
Holiday travel rush kicks off: What to know
AAA says more than 115 million Americans are expected to travel over the holidays. CBS News senior transportation correspondent Kris Van Cleave explains what travelers can expect.
Airlines prepare for record travel
Airlines are preparing for a record 39 million passengers this holiday season. CBS News' Kris Van Cleave talks with United CEO Scott Kirby and U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to weigh in on improvements made for this year's travelers.
Children's hospital offers patients holiday magic
The 16th floor of Texas Children's Hospital in Houston looks like a high-end holiday store. Janet Shamlian has the story.
Consumers signal optimism this holiday season
Consumer confidence climbed this month, appearing to signal optimism in the U.S. economy during the holiday season, according to a new report by The Conference Board. Dana Peterson, the chief economist at The Conference Board, joins CBS News with a look at the new data.
Tips for saving money this holiday season
Looking to spread holiday cheer without breaking the bank this year? If you haven't done your shopping yet, Bankrate senior economic analyst Mark Hamrick joined CBS News with advice on how to save.
"Christmas tree cluster" found glowing green in space
The dazzling green tree with seemingly sparkling blue and white lights was found in the Milky Way and is a formation of young stars – some bigger than the sun.
House Ethics Committee will keep Matt Gaetz report under wraps — for now
The panel's ranking Democrat, Rep. Susan Wild, said there was "no consensus" on the issue and the committee agreed to reconvene on Dec. 5.
Russia hits back after Ukraine's strike using U.S. long-range missiles
Dnipro appeared to bear the brunt of Moscow's first retaliatory strike after Ukraine fired U.S.-made missiles into Russia, but it's unclear what weapons Russia used.
How could U.S. military be used for Trump's mass deportation plan?
Trump signaled this week that he would enlist the help of the U.S. military for his massive deportation operation.
Bryan Kohberger can face death penalty if convicted, judge rules
Bryan Kohberger is charged with four counts of first degree murder in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students.
4 Trump Cabinet picks have sexual misconduct allegations in their past
Four men chosen by President-elect Donald Trump for top positions have been accused of varying degrees of sexual misconduct.
Former Dallas police officer Amber Guyger ordered to pay nearly $100 million in civil trial
Guyger was convicted six years ago of shooting and killing Jean in his apartment, which she said she thought was her own.
Are food recalls and outbreaks on the rise?
The FDA says America's food supply is still "one of the safest in the world," despite some recent high-profile recalls and outbreaks.
American among 4 tourists dead after drinking tainted booze in Laos
The American died in the tourist town of Vang Vieng, Laos, the State Department confirmed.
Chris Stapleton wins 4 CMAs but Morgan Wallen named entertainer of the year
Chris Stapleton took home four Country Music Association Awards and hardly left the stage on Wednesday night, while an absent Morgan Wallen won the night's biggest prize, entertainer of the year.
U.S.
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Capitol rioter with "kill list" convicted of plot to murder FBI agents
Edward Kelley distributed a "kill list" and videos containing images of FBI employees to another person as part of his "mission," prosecutors say.
Justice Department calls for breakup of Google and sale of Chrome
The proposed breakup calls for Google to sell its industry-leading Chrome web browser and impose restrictions designed to prevent its Android smartphone software from favoring its search engine.
Are food recalls and outbreaks on the rise?
The FDA says America's food supply is still "one of the safest in the world," despite some recent high-profile recalls and outbreaks.
How collecting pine cones helps renew Oregon forests after wildfires
Conservationists are teaming up with the U.S. Forest Service and logging companies to clear scorched land and make room for new reforestation projects.
U.S. indicts Indian billionaire Gautam Adani in $265 million bribery scheme
Gautam Adani, one of the world's richest people, is accused of concealing that a solar energy project was being facilitated by an alleged $265 million bribery scheme.
MoneyWatch
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Justice Department calls for breakup of Google and sale of Chrome
The proposed breakup calls for Google to sell its industry-leading Chrome web browser and impose restrictions designed to prevent its Android smartphone software from favoring its search engine.
Are food recalls and outbreaks on the rise?
The FDA says America's food supply is still "one of the safest in the world," despite some recent high-profile recalls and outbreaks.
Sheetz is cutting gas prices by 40 cents a gallon before Thanksgiving
As millions of Americans get ready to hit the road ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, Sheetz is offering a deal on fuel.
Reddit is down for many users, reports say. Here's what to know.
Reddit says it's investigating after users on Wednesday reported problems connecting to the online forum.
Has life in the U.S. become too political? You can buy a house in Italy for $1.
A village in Sardinia is trying to entice politics-weary Americans to buy cheap homes in Italy.
Politics
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Police report details woman's allegations against Pete Hegseth
A woman told police she was sexually assaulted in 2017 by Pete Hegseth, according to a detailed, newly-released police report. He is now President-elect Trump's choice for defense secretary.
Analysis: Election conspiracies persist, even with different outcomes
Conspiracies persist, although it is effectively impossible to steal a major election in the United States.
How could the U.S. military be used for Trump's mass deportation plan?
Trump signaled this week that he would enlist the help of the U.S. military for his massive deportation operation.
House Ethics Committee will keep Matt Gaetz report under wraps
Rep. Susan Wild said there was "no consensus" on the issue and the committee agreed to reconvene on Dec. 5.
4 Trump administration picks have sexual misconduct allegations in their past
Four men chosen by President-elect Donald Trump for top positions have been accused of varying degrees of sexual misconduct.
HealthWatch
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Are food recalls and outbreaks on the rise?
The FDA says America's food supply is still "one of the safest in the world," despite some recent high-profile recalls and outbreaks.
McDonald's pulls espresso drinks from some U.S. menus
Lattes and other espresso-based drinks may not be available at some McDonald's restaurants due to a glitch with coffee machines.
Florida Gov. DeSantis' Canadian drug import plan goes nowhere after FDA approval
Florida sued the FDA over what it said was a "reckless delay" in approving its drug importation plan. Now, nearly a year after the FDA gave the state the green light, the program has yet to begin.
As "walking pneumonia" spreads, ER visits surge for sick babies
CDC data shows rates of Mycoplasma pneumoniae have surged in babies.
Trump taps Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead key Medicare and Medicaid agency
Dr. Mehmet Oz unsuccessfully ran for Senate in 2022. Now he's Trump's choice to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
World
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Russia hits back after Ukraine's strike using U.S. long-range missiles
Dnipro bears the brunt of Moscow's first retaliatory strike after Ukraine fires U.S.-made missiles into Russia, and Ukraine claims Moscow may have used an ICBM.
American among 4 tourists dead after drinking tainted booze in Laos
The American died in the tourist town of Vang Vieng, Laos, the State Department confirmed.
U.S. indicts Indian billionaire Gautam Adani in $265 million bribery scheme
Gautam Adani, one of the world's richest people, is accused of concealing that a solar energy project was being facilitated by an alleged $265 million bribery scheme.
Giraffes need endangered species protection, U.S. officials say
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed new protections for giraffes, saying their populations are threatened by poaching, habitat loss and climate change.
3 police officers, 4 cartel suspects killed near U.S. border
Drug cartel gunmen also attacked a funeral convoy of cars accompanying the body of one of the victims in the first attack, officials said.
Entertainment
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Chris Stapleton wins 4 CMAs but Morgan Wallen named entertainer of the year
Chris Stapleton took home four Country Music Association Awards and hardly left the stage on Wednesday night, while an absent Morgan Wallen won the night's biggest prize, entertainer of the year.
Paul Mescal on what he learned from working with Denzel Washington
Paul Mescal discusses his experience working with Oscar winner Denzel Washington in "Gladiator II," and what it was like to work on intense scenes together.
Clay Aiken on his new holiday album
Award-winning singer Clay Aiken, who rose to fame on American Idol, joins "CBS Mornings Plus" to talk about his new holiday album, "Christmas Bells Are Ringing," and his rendition of Bing Crosby's "Do You Hear What I Hear?"
Paul Mescal on "Gladiator II"
Paul Mescal joins "CBS Mornings" to discuss his role as Lucius in "Gladiator II," the son of Maximus and Lucilla, who is thrust into the arena to fight for the Roman Empire 15 years after Maximus' death.
Paul Simon says group's steps toward hearing loss cure gives him hope
CBS News' Anthony Mason joins Paul Simon on a trip to the Stanford Initiative to Cure Hearing Loss, to explore how researchers are getting closer to finding answers about repairing and preventing hearing loss.
Technology
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Justice Department calls for breakup of Google and sale of Chrome
The proposed breakup calls for Google to sell its industry-leading Chrome web browser and impose restrictions designed to prevent its Android smartphone software from favoring its search engine.
Reddit is down for many users, reports say. Here's what to know.
Reddit says it's investigating after users on Wednesday reported problems connecting to the online forum.
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.
Deepfakes of Elon Musk contribute to billions in fraud losses
A study found that Elon Musk is the most common celebrity used in deepfake scams.
SpaceX successfully tests Starship
SpaceX successfully launched its Super Heavy-Starship rocket from Texas for its sixth test flight Tuesday with its CEO Elon Musk and President-elect Donald Trump looking on. CBS News correspondent Jason Allen has more on the launch.
Science
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How collecting pine cones helps renew Oregon forests after wildfires
Conservationists are teaming up with the U.S. Forest Service and logging companies to clear scorched land and make room for new reforestation projects.
Restoring forests decimated by wildfires
Large wildfires fueled by climate change have destroyed tens of millions of acres of forests in the Pacific Northwest in recent years. Jonathan Vigliotti explores a major effort underway to restore those forests.
Giraffes need endangered species protection, U.S. officials say
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed new protections for giraffes, saying their populations are threatened by poaching, habitat loss and climate change.
Carcass of massive endangered whale washes ashore in Alaska
The carcass was comparable to the width of a college basketball court and female, according to biologists.
Energy Secretary Granholm on Trump presidency
Former leaders and climate experts have issued a letter calling the U.N.'s annual climate meeting "no longer fit for purpose." Recently, CBS News spoke with U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm about the summit and what the incoming Trump presidency means for clean energy and climate change. The conversation took place before the president-elect made his pick for energy secretary.
Crime
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Capitol rioter with "kill list" convicted of plot to murder FBI agents
Edward Kelley distributed a "kill list" and videos containing images of FBI employees to another person as part of his "mission," prosecutors say.
Man convicted of murder in slaying of Laken Riley
A judge Wednesday found a Venezuelan migrant guilty on all counts in the murder earlier this year of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley. He was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Manuel Bojorquez has the latest.
Bryan Kohberger can face death penalty if convicted, judge rules
Bryan Kohberger is charged with four counts of first degree murder in the 2022 stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students.
Florida man arrested in alleged plot to bomb New York Stock Exchange
South Florida native Harun Abdul-Malik Yener was charged with attempted use of an explosive to damage or destroy a building used in interstate commerce.
"Rust" movie premieres in Poland
The "Rust" film premiere in Poland occurred three years after the fatal on-set shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Alec Baldwin was not present. CBS News' Chris Livesay reports.
Space
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Space
Trump, Musk attend SpaceX launch
President-elect Donald Trump attended SpaceX's sixth flight test of its Super Heavy-Starship on Tuesday with CEO Elon Musk. The burgeoning friendship between the two men played a key role in Trump's reelection, with Musk now set to run a government efficiency agency in the coming months. CBS News political reporter Jake Rosen and Politico aviation reporter Oriana Pawlyk join "America Decides" with more.
SpaceX launches Super Heavy-Starship, with Trump there to watch
President-elect Donald Trump was on hand with Elon Musk for the sixth test flight of SpaceX's huge Super Heavy-Starship rocket.
Far side of the moon once had erupting volcanoes, lunar soil shows
Researchers analyzed lunar soil brought back by China's Chang'e-6, the first spacecraft to return with a haul of rocks and dirt from the little-explored far side.
When you can see the Beaver Moon, 2024's final supermoon
November's full moon, known as the Beaver Moon, is the last supermoon of 2024. Here's when it peaks and why it's called the Beaver Moon.
Astronauts decline to answer questions about post-flight medical issue
Medical issues aside, the astronauts described a water leak in June that triggered a blizzard in the International Space Station's airlock.
Latest Galleries
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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.
Serial killer Rodney Alcala's secret photos
See some of convicted serial killer Rodney Alcala's photographs that were discovered by detectives in a Seattle storage locker.
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.
Evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan.
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.
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Johnson implements transgender restroom ban
House Speaker Mike Johnson on Wednesday took aim at incoming Democratic Rep. Sarah McBride, the first ever transgender member elected to Congress, with his decision to bar transgender people from using bathrooms in the Capitol Complex that do not align with their sex assigned at birth. Scott MacFarlane has more.
How mass deportations could affect food
President-elect Donald Trump confirmed that he plans to address illegal immigration in the U.S. through a mass deportation program. CBS News MoneyWatch correspondent Kelly O'Grady discusses how such a plan could affect the food industry.
Who is Linda McMahon?
President-elect Donald Trump announced he plans to nominate former wrestling executive Linda McMahon as education secretary. Washington Post political investigative reporter Beth Reinhard joins "The Daily Report" to discuss her qualifications and plans.
Can Democrats fill 44 judicial vacancies?
President-elect Donald Trump is urging Republicans to slow down President Biden's judicial nominations before January. There are currently 44 vacancies, and 14 of Mr. Biden's nominations await Senate approval. Wall Street Journal Supreme Court correspondent Jess Bravin joins "The Daily Report" to discuss.
Restoring forests decimated by wildfires
Large wildfires fueled by climate change have destroyed tens of millions of acres of forests in the Pacific Northwest in recent years. Jonathan Vigliotti explores a major effort underway to restore those forests.