Bake a difference.

SUPPORT
Big D’s Big News Cupcake Wars
What: Cheer on local media outlets — including yours truly — while they whip together fanciful cupcake creations to win $5,000 for charity.
Why: DJ Ob-Jen & Juice provide the music; Food Network’s Cupcake Wars host Candace Nelson appears for a meet and greet.
When: Sat., 3 p.m.
Where: NorthPark Center, 8687 N Central Expwy., 1st flr., b/t Macy’s & Nordstrom.

TASTE
Year of the Dragon
What: Steel breathes life into a prix fixe menu ($45) celebrating the Chinese New Year with an app (the hot and sour duck salad symbolizes fertility, FYI), main course, and dessert (try the brandy fruit Foster for just plain deliciousness).
Why: Head there on Mon. at 8 p.m. to catch Chin Woo School of Kung Fu performing a traditional lion dance throughout the dining room.
When: Mon.-Jan. 29. Mon.-Thurs., 5:30-11 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 5:30 p.m.-midnight; Sun., 5:30-9 p.m.
Where: 3180 Welborn St. (214-219-9908).

Fondue Night
What: Scardello gets its stinky cheese on with a four-course dinner ($40) that includes an amuse-bouche, three-mountain cheese fondue, and local chocolate truffles.
Why: A free glass of bubbly is included.
When: Sat., 8 p.m.
Where: 3511 Oak Lawn Ave. R.S.V.P. to 214-219-1300 or online at scardellocheese.com.

SHOP
Warren Barrón Bridal Sample Sale
What: The tony wedding gown treasure chest opens for a one-day blowout of dresses by Marchesa, Elizabeth Fillmore, Lela Rose, Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang, and more for 40-80 percent off.
Why: No R.S.V.P necessary; mention DailyCandy to score a free glass of champagne (ages 21 and over only).
When: Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: 53 Highland Park Village (214-526-8400).

Photo: Carly Guss / Getty Images