Don’t let the Christmas cookie crumble.

BATTLE
Cookie Competition (and Cocktails)
What: Put Mom’s snickerdoodle recipe to the test; Kahlúa egg creams and gingerbread liqueur lattes will calm your nerves.
Why: Noncompetitors can take cash or an unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots.
When: Sat., 2-4 p.m.
Where: Gordon’s Fine Wine & Culinary Center, 894 Main St., Waltham (781-893-1900). E-mail lcohen@gordonswine.com to enter your cookies (three dozen required).

GRAZE
American Provisions Opens
What: Southie dudes Matt Thayer and Andy Fadous debut an epicurean paradise stocked with organic produce, farmstead cheeses and charcuterie, local baked goods, and Cape Cod shellfish.
Why: Takeaway meals for overworked gourmands.
When: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 613 E. Broadway (617-269-6100).

SHOP
Daniela Corte Holiday Sample Sale
What: Our fave couturier has past-season dresses and separates ($30-$200) at up to 70 percent off.
Why: Check yourself off the shopping list.
When: Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 211 Newbury St., 2nd flr., Back Bay (617-262-2100).

Geek and Chic Gifts for Big Spenders
What: Indulge gadget lust with a tabletop fireplace, Philippe Starck speakers, digital clocks, and Smart cars in primary colors.
Why: They deserve only the best.
When: You want to make dreams come true.
Where: Online at dailycandy.com.

BE MERRY
Holiday Punch Party
What: The fun-loving LUPEC chicks toast the season with DJs and lusty brews like the Silent Night Punch (Pierre Ferrand cognac, Plantation rum, chartreuse, and Benedictine). Cheeky holiday attire is encouraged.
Why: Take a winter clothing donation for On the Rise and get a free drink ticket.
When: Mon., 6-11 p.m.
Where: Trina’s Starlite Lounge, 3 Beacon St., Somerville (617-576-0006). Admission is free.

TASTE
Isabelle’s CurlyCakes
What: Todd English’s 17-year-old daughter/zealous baker conceived the new dessert spot serving her personal cupcake recipes (triple chocolate, red velvet, and chocolate and peanut butter cup).
Why: Katie Holmes had these suckers flown to her Canadian movie set last summer.
When: Sun.-Wed., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thurs.-Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: 81 Charles St., Beacon Hill (617-720-2260).

Photo: Jason Tinder / Flickr