Holiday strolls are taking over the town. Much better that than uninvited relatives.

DO
South End Holiday Market
What: Gifts from more than 130 local artisans.
Why: Every last lick of holiday shopping, finished in less than an hour.
When: Fri., 6-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 500 Harrison Ave., 4th flr.

Ice Skate at The Charles Hotel
What: Spin figure eights and slurp hot chocolate in the middle of Harvard Square.
Why: Ice, ice, baby.
When: Thru Mar. 31.
Where: The Charles Hotel, 1 Bennett St., Cambridge (617-864-1200).

Beacon Hill Holiday Stroll
What: Horses and buggies, tree lightings, holiday shopping, and plenty of eating.
Why: Nosh away, nosh away, nosh away all.
When: Thurs., 5-9 p.m.
Where: All along Charles St. (617-968-2800).

Stroll & Holiday Hunt
What: Holiday cheer seekers follow a map, search for hidden ornaments, and compete for a gift basket valued at more than $1,000.
Why: Seek and ye shall find.
When: Fri., 6-9 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-4 p.m.
Where: At 26 participating businesses on the South End. For details call (617-266-2610).

DRINK
Holiday Cocktails
What: White Christmas martinis, Poinsettia cocktails, and Spiked Eggnog in an out-and-out elegant bar.
Why: Not a creature was stirring. Except the Oak Bar’s mixologists.
When: The holiday season.
Where: Oak Bar, Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel, 138 St. James Ave. (617-267-5300).