’Til you drop.

GIFT
Midtown Pop-Up Shops
What: Swap the dreaded mall excursion for a local holiday marketplace trip. Artisanal chocolates by Olive & Sinclair, deals from online retailer Les Nouvelles, and gallery finds from ShopSCAD artists mean there will be something for everyone on your list.
Why: Hit the Billy Reid fete (tonight, 6-9 p.m.) for GQ’s Best New Menswear Designer’s threads, live music, and free bourbon cocktails.
When: Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 999 Peachtree St.; 990 Peachtree St.; 805 Peachtree St., Midtown. Info online at facebook.com.

DINE
Restaurant Eugene Author Dinner Series
What: Chef Linton Hopkins hosts Chez Panisse toque David Tanis for a four-course meal ($115), plus wine pairings, inspired by Tanis’s Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys.
Why: An eve with the author and signed cookbook is Christmas come early for your fave foodie.
When: Mon., 6:30 p.m.
Where: 2277 Peachtree Rd., Buckhead. Reservations (required) to 404-355-0321.

BUY
Market Opens
What: The neighborhood general store houses a breadth of items from the everyday (TP, pasta) to gourmet (Alon’s pastries, Beanealogy coffee).
Why: Epicurean convenience items (like sweets from Atlanta Cupcake Factory) make it possible to never show up to a dinner party empty-handed.
When: Daily, 7 a.m.-11 p.m.
Where: 672 Highland Ave. NE, Old Fourth Ward (404-781-2345).

WRAP
Holiday Gift Ideas for Kids
What: It’s that time of year when kiddos (and those at heart) dream of shiny new balance bikes, mind-bending puzzles, and sparkling shoes.
Why: They still believe.
When: Before all the good stuff is gone.
Where: Online at dailycandy.com.

DEAL
Alternative Apparel Sample Sale
What: Stock up on ridiculously marked down cotton staples like his-and-hers burnout crew-neck tees, button-down shirts, and cozy fleece bottoms.
Why: Spread the warmth. Cold-weather cardigans are $30 for a pair, so keep one for yourself and give the other to a lucky friend.
When: Today & Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: 80 Peachtree Pl. NW, Midtown.

Photo: Adam Kuehl / Courtesy of SCAD