As the year comes rolling into the last two months of the year, we are reminded that the holidays are nearly here. Instead of getting anxious about the shopping and entertaining season, plan early to be prepared and be able to enjoy the time yourself.

While some of us are sending out the Thanksgiving invitations now and writing up our menus, you know that less than four weeks later it will be Christmas. If you are hosting the Thanksgiving feast, why not plan a get-together with friends or family at one of your favorite restaurants?

Looking for a great eatery to host your group? Try Andrea Italian Trattoria or Winfields fine dining. Both have private dining rooms that will be perfect for you and menus that will please everyone. If you want a more casual experience, the Old Oar House Irish Pub and BoJo’s Ale House have choices you may enjoy. It’s definitely time now to call for reservations.

Are there vegans or vegetarians in your family? Try Wildflower Vegan Café. The chef’s creations are tasty and full of flavor. Don’t forget the south-of-the-border flavors with the popular Mexican restaurant, El Guacamole. These restaurants have catering and takeout menus, so you can bring the party to your house without the fuss of cooking.

If your needs for catering may be simpler, a wide array of treats from pizza to wings to bagels can be found in a dozen eateries throughout the Glasstown Arts District. Whatever choice you make, it is bound to be a pleaser for your office or home party.

At this time of year, the television, radio and internet are filled with advertisers trying to get a piece of your wallet. The kids will be asking for their favorite toys like Legos, Hot Wheels and Barbies. Don’t we all want the little ones to have a joyous time? Make sure they receive their favorites, but don’t forget to shop for perfect and unique items for special members of your family and your friends.

This year, “Artful Giving” begins at the Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts, 22 N. High Street, on Third Friday, November 13. The main gallery will be converted to a huge gallery shop filled with artisan-made jewelry, textiles, carved wood, small art pieces and much more. Artists and artisans from all over southern New Jersey bring their items for this six-week holiday bazaar. A wide range of prices will please everyone’s pocketbooks. When these special packages are opened, you’ll see the delighted responses from the receivers. You’ll know that talented, local artisans are profiting from your purchase rather than an unknown factory somewhere in the world.

Also, this Third Friday, the shops and galleries in the Village on High are debuting their one-of-a-kind gift items. Private galleries throughout the six-blocks of the Arts District will all be showing their special art. Don’t forget to shop at Rowan College of South Jersey’s gallery gift shop for ceramics, sculptures and jewelry items that are distinctive.

We all have difficult-to-buy-for people on our lists. Maybe it’s your father-in-law or grandma who says she has everything; then purchase a restaurant gift certificate or Levoy Theatre tickets or certificates. You are sure to please them with food and entertainment!

Whatever you decide to do, enjoy the holiday season!