How to spend your Amazon gift card: 12 great ideas
From wool dryer balls to weighted blankets, here's what to buy with the Amazon gift card you got for the holidays.
Christmas
Tree rentals make Christmas eco-friendly
There are now three options when Christmas tree shopping: real, fake and rental. Renting a tree allows for its replanting and reuse after the holiday season. Roxana Saberi has the details.
Holiday shoppers rush to meet shipping deadlines
With just days to go before Christmas, Americans are hitting the stores in search of those last-minute gifts — and hoping to meet shipping deadlines. Janet Shamlian reports.
Tree rentals provide eco-friendly alternative to holiday tradition
An eco-friendly version of the Christmas tree holiday tradition is taking root in England.
Omicron's quick spread raises concerns
One week ahead of Christmas, federal health officials are seeing an uptick in COVID-19 cases primarily fueled by the Delta variant — with fears that holiday gatherings and the highly infectious Omicron variant will create yet another surge. The latest outbreak is triggering a nationwide push for Americans to get booster shots. Elise Preston reports.
World leaders weigh tougher COVID restrictions
The director-general of the World Health Organization is urging people to cancel or postpone their holiday gatherings as the Omicron variant spreads globally. He warned the celebrations could overwhelm hospital systems and lead to more infections and deaths. This comes as leaders in the U.K. and other European nations consider tightening restrictions ahead of Christmas. CBS News foreign correspondent Holly Williams joined Anne-Marie Green on CBSN to discuss the COVID surge.
Great last minute Christmas gifts for mom you can shop now
We've found the perfect gifts for mom, including the KitchenAid Pro stand mixer, NuFace Trinity and Apple AirPods
Children's hospital brings holiday joy to patients
For kids in hospitals, the holidays can be tough. At Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., kids still get to experience some Christmas joy. Jan Crawford has the story.
COVID-19 cases spike ahead of Christmas
Hospitals across the nation are bracing for a new wave of COVID-19 patients as infections rise ahead of Christmas and New Year's Eve. About 90% of all Americans are now in "high" or "substantial" risk areas. Marci Gonzalez reports.
Protecting a forest by cutting down Christmas trees
The Aspen Canyon Ranch in Colorado allows visitors to pick their own Christmas tree and help thin out the forest, allowing other trees to have room to grow. The price of a tree is a donation to a shelter for women experiencing homelessness. Barry Petersen has the story.
Concerns grow over 5G impact on planes
Airlines are warning that a dispute over 5G technology could cause delays for passengers in the new year. CBS News' congressional correspondent Kris Van Cleave reports.
Staff picks: The 14 best Christmas gifts we're giving this year
The CBS Essentials staff knows shopping, and this is what we're giving him, her and the kids this year for Christmas
Christmas shopping deadlines: When to buy gifts to avoid shipping delays
Get the details on the USPS, FedEx and UPS shipping deadlines, in-store pickup at your favorite retailers and more
Collins says those with vaccine and booster "very well protected" from Omicron
Dr. Francis Collins, the head of the National Institutes of Health, urged Americans to get the vaccine and booster shots ahead of the holidays.
What goes into a box of See's Candies?
At the See's Candies factory, in Culver City, Calif., candymakers are busy cranking out holiday cheer, which is sold online and in more than 200 stores across the U.S. Correspondent Luke Burbank tests his candy-making skills, and also finds out how a Christmas tradition, stalled during last year's pandemic, is now back.
Jim Gaffigan on celebrating Jesus' birthday
The comedian ponders the evolution of the holiday season, which started with one man's birth, and now involves indoor trees and door-to-door singers.
Dr. Jon LaPook on COVID and safer holiday gatherings
With the increase in coronavirus caseloads due to the spreading Delta and Omicron variants, CBS News' chief medical correspondent discusses the precautions to be taken at end-of-year get-togethers, to better ensure a safe holiday season.
The return of Secret Santa
Far from the North Pole, at the edge of the Sonoran Desert, Secret Santa is about to do some of his best work ever, on the San Carlos Apache Tribal Lands. Correspondent Steve Hartman reports on the anonymous wealthy businessman who is making his annual holiday season trek, giving away $30,000 in hundred-dollar bills to random strangers.
COVID disrupts Christmas festivities again
As COVID-19 continues to surge across the U.S., people are flocking to testing sites. Meanwhile, local business' holiday traditions are beig canceled due to the rise in cases. Elise Preston updates.
How product trackers help consumers score popular gifts
Trying to find the most popular electronics, toys and gifts is proving to be a challenge for some this holiday season. As a result, many people are turning to so-called product trackers that alert people when items are back in stock at retailers. CBS News MoneyWatch reporter Irina Ivanova joins CBSN's Lana Zak to explain.
Military family surprised with holiday decor
The holidays can be a tough time for military families who may have a parent away or are dealing with the wounds of war. But one company is bringing cheer to those lives this time of year. As part of the "CBS Mornings" series A More Perfect Union, Janet Shamlian joins Christmas Decor for a surprise mission in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Kraft will pay for your holiday desserts, cheesecake not included
The supply chain crisis may impact cheesecake availability for the holidays. So Kraft wants to pay for you to enjoy another dessert for the holidays.
Santa Claus Girls continue tradition bringing cheer to children in need
The pandemic interrupted the Santa Claus Girls' yearly gift giving tradition, but now they are back bringing cheer to children in need.
10 super great gifts for Marvel fans
From stocking stuffers like a Thor bottle opener to an Avengers version of Monopoly, we've assembled the best gifts for Marvel fans.
Holiday shipping deadlines begin this week
The deadline for shipping your holiday gifts is fast approaching if you want them to arrive before Christmas. Meg Oliver has the details.
Live
Iran war keeps Strait of Hormuz paralyzed and gas prices on the rise
The Iran war could escalate further as President Trump threatens to hit key oil infrastructure if Tehran doesn't drop its chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump urges other nations to help open Strait of Hormuz
In remarks ahead of a meeting with the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Mr. Trump provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Ex-wife told 911 the Michigan synagogue attacker was "not stable" before incident
A person believed to be the ex-wife of the suspect in the attack at Michigan's Temple Israel told authorities that the suspect was "not stable" ahead of the attack, according to a 911 call obtained by CBS News Detroit.
Judge blocks parts of RFK Jr.'s vaccine agenda, including revised schedule
A judge blocked a set of changes to the childhood vaccine schedule recommended by allies of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, dealing a setback to the Trump administration's efforts to overhaul federal vaccine policy.
Trump requests delay of China trip because of Iran war
President Trump was planning to visit China at the end of March.
Cuba plans to open up to investment from nationals in U.S. amid pressure from Trump
The Cuban government is planning to allow Cuban nationals who live abroad to invest in the island, a government official told NBC News, as the country faces economic collapse and pressure from the Trump administration.
Travelers face long lines at airports after TSA workers miss full paycheck
Travelers continue to face long lines at airports across the U.S. due to the partial government shutdown affecting TSA agents.
Border Patrol's Gregory Bovino to retire from federal service, sources say
Border Patrol official Gregory Bovino was pulled away from a high-profile role leading immigration raids in major U.S. cities, including Minneapolis, earlier this year.
Kennedy Center votes to shut down ahead of Trump-backed renovation project
The Kennedy Center's board of directors has voted to shut down operations for two years following this summer's July 4 celebrations.
U.S.
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Kennedy Center votes to shut down ahead of Trump-backed renovation project
The Kennedy Center's board of directors has voted to shut down operations for two years following this summer's July 4 celebrations.
Trump requests delay of China trip because of Iran war
President Trump was planning to visit China at the end of March.
Ex-wife told 911 the synagogue attacker was "not stable" ahead of incident
A person believed to be the ex-wife of the suspect in the attack at Michigan's Temple Israel told authorities that the suspect was "not stable" ahead of the attack, according to a 911 call obtained by CBS News Detroit.
U.S. Soccer unveils new stars and stripes jerseys ahead of 2026 World Cup
The U.S. men's national soccer team is expected to debut the new uniforms later this month in Atlanta, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting in June.
Supreme Court to consider end to deportation protections for Syrians, Haitians
The Supreme Court said in an unsigned order it will hear arguments in late April on efforts to end temporary deportation protections for thousands of immigrants from Syria and Haiti.
MoneyWatch
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Costco recalls meatloaf meal due to salmonella risk
Costco is recalling a meatloaf and potato meal kit because one of its ingredients may be contaminated with salmonella.
Hyundai stops sales of some 2026 models after a child's death
Hyundai's announcement came after a child died in an incident involving a Palisade vehicle, which the car maker said is still under investigation.
With gas prices still rising, experts recommend 3 ways to save fuel
Small adjustments, like maintaining a steady speed while driving, can help maximize fuel efficiency, experts say.
Gas prices edge higher with Brent crude remaining above $100 per barrel
Gas prices have jumped almost 79 cents per gallon from a month ago, raising fresh inflation concerns.
The Iran war is making it harder for Fed officials to cut interest rates
Some economists think the Fed, facing inflationary pressures from rising energy prices, may not cut interest rates at all this year.
Politics
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Kennedy Center votes to shut down ahead of Trump-backed renovation project
The Kennedy Center's board of directors has voted to shut down operations for two years following this summer's July 4 celebrations.
Trump requests delay of China trip because of Iran war
President Trump was planning to visit China at the end of March.
Judge blocks parts of RFK Jr.'s vaccine agenda, including revised schedule
A judge blocked a set of changes to the childhood vaccine schedule recommended by allies of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, dealing a setback to the Trump administration's efforts to overhaul federal vaccine policy.
Cuba plans to open up to investment from nationals in U.S. amid pressure from Trump
The Cuban government is planning to allow Cuban nationals who live abroad to invest in the island, a government official told NBC News, as the country faces economic collapse and pressure from the Trump administration.
Supreme Court to consider end to deportation protections for Syrians, Haitians
The Supreme Court said in an unsigned order it will hear arguments in late April on efforts to end temporary deportation protections for thousands of immigrants from Syria and Haiti.
HealthWatch
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Judge blocks parts of RFK Jr.'s vaccine agenda, including revised schedule
A judge blocked a set of changes to the childhood vaccine schedule recommended by allies of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, dealing a setback to the Trump administration's efforts to overhaul federal vaccine policy.
Changes in organ donor status can fall through cracks in the system
Patchwork state policies and limited federal oversight have led to a fragmented system for tracking organ donor status.
A dad's colon cancer spread to lungs. He says what happened next was a miracle.
Spencer Laird was diagnosed with colon cancer at 26. At 30, he was told it had returned and spread to his lungs, with one tumor the size of a golf ball.
Dr. Oz pledges to tackle hospice fraud: "Do not steal from the American people"
The Trump administration's Medicare boss reacts to CBS News investigation into California's hospice fraud problems.
Millions of Americans skip meals, stretch medication to afford health care
Even people with six-figure incomes are making financial sacrifices to pay for medical care, a new study finds.
World
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Trump requests delay of China trip because of Iran war
President Trump was planning to visit China at the end of March.
Cuba plans to open up to investment from nationals in U.S. amid pressure from Trump
The Cuban government is planning to allow Cuban nationals who live abroad to invest in the island, a government official told NBC News, as the country faces economic collapse and pressure from the Trump administration.
Cuba begins restoring power after energy grid collapses in nationwide blackout
The latest blackout in Cuba comes over a week after another massive outage affected the island's west, leaving millions without power.
2 dead, including girl, after boats carrying students capsize off Japan
Coast guard rescuers pulled all 21 people out of the water, but a 17-year-old student and the captain of one of the boats were later pronounced dead.
Trump urges other nations to help open Strait of Hormuz
In remarks ahead of a meeting with the Kennedy Center board of trustees, Mr. Trump provided an update on the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Entertainment
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Kennedy Center votes to shut down ahead of Trump-backed renovation project
The Kennedy Center's board of directors has voted to shut down operations for two years following this summer's July 4 celebrations.
Stars walk Vanity Fair Oscar Party red carpet
Oscar winners Jessie Buckley, Michael B. Jordan and other celebrities appeared on the red carpet for the Vanity Fair party after the awards show. See some of the red carpet looks.
Did "Sinners" get snubbed at the Oscars?
The 2026 Academy Awards were held in Los Angeles on Sunday. Entertainment Tonight host Kevin Frazier breaks down the winners and the biggest upsets.
Oscars 2026 best dressed
CBS News contributor Lauren Sherman breaks down some of the best looks from the 2026 Oscars, where looks from Chanel and Dior dominated the red carpet.
Lizzo announces children's book
Grammy award-winner Lizzo exclusively announced on "CBS Mornings" her latest project, a children's book called "Little Lizzo Meets Sasha B. Flute." She spoke with Gayle King about her inspiration for the book and message for young readers.
Technology
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Technology
Solar farm development faces pushback
A community in Alabama is pushing back against a solar farm that would power an artificial intelligence data center in the state. CBS News reporter Kati Weis has more.
Jury deliberates in social media trial
Jury deliberations are underway in a landmark social media trial about addiction claims. CBS News correspondent Carter Evans has the details.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
3 teens took part in a weeklong experiment to curb screen time. It worked.
For one week, three New Jersey high schoolers agreed not to take their phones to bed, and to try different tools to reduce screen time.
How Pentagon-Anthropic AI dispute escalated
The Trump administration has blacklisted AI giant Anthropic, labeling it a supply chain risk. The company has sued in response. New York Times tech reporter Sheera Frenkel joins CBS News to break down the feud.
Science
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Discovery of 1949 whale recording could unlock mysteries of ocean
The song is that of a humpback whale and was recorded by scientists in March 1949 in Bermuda, researchers said.
Sea levels higher than thought due to "methodological blind spot," study says
A new study in the journal Nature says most sea level rise research may have underestimated coastal water heights by an average of 1 foot.
NASA announces major overhaul of Artemis moon program "to take down risk"
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman announced significant changes to the agency's Artemis program, which aims to land on the moon in 2028.
What scientists will be looking for when government UFO files are released
Documents might help scientists shed light on unexplained phenomena and government secrets, experts said.
In a first, shark seen on camera in Antarctica waters, surprising researchers
A large shark was caught on camera for the first time in Antarctica's waters, surprising researchers. "There's a general rule of thumb that you don't get sharks in Antarctica," one said.
Crime
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Crime
Closing arguments in Kouri Richins trial
Closing arguments are expected to begin on Monday in Kouri Richins' murder trial. She's accused of giving her husband a deadly dose of fentanyl four years ago before she later published a children's book about grief. The case included 13 days of testimony, but the defense did not call any witnesses. If convicted, Richins could face life in prison.
Suspect who played key role in "El Mencho" raid is arrested
The suspect was responsible for transporting Oseguera's romantic partner to a luxurious cabin, the defense ministry said.
Ecuador launches U.S.-backed anti-drug operations: "We're at war"
The operation marks the latest joint show of force against drug cartels in the South American country.
Murder-for-hire scheme uncovered in investigation of slain teacher
Jocelyn Peters, a beloved third grade teacher in St. Louis, Missouri, was shot to death in her sleep. The crime scene held an unusual clue – something one detective says he had never seen before.
Players Championship start delayed amid manhunt for murder suspect
Suspect Christian Barrios, 32, shot two people multiple times Friday night, St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Space
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Space
Bill Nye on going from Boeing to science guy
Bill Nye the Science Guy sits down with CBS News chief Washington correspondent Major Garrett to talk about his life and career.
NASA targets April 1 for moon mission launch
NASA's huge Space Launch System rocket has been repaired and is ready for rollout back to the launch pad next week.
1,300-pound NASA satellite to crash on Earth
Nearly 14 years after it was launched in 2012, NASA says a 1,300-pound satellite is expected to come crashing back to Earth on Wednesday. Most of it will burn up as it reenters the atmosphere, but NASA warns some debris could survive reentry.
1,300-pound NASA satellite re-enters Earth's atmosphere after 14 years in space
The Van Allen probe's mission was meant to last two years, but ended up going for nearly seven.
Why NASA is overhauling Artemis program
NASA has announced a major overhaul of its Artemis moon program amid ongoing safety concerns. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood has more details.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
Record snowfall across Midwest, Great Lakes
A major storm brought dangerous blizzard conditions across the Great Lakes and the Midwest states over the weekend. These videos show the conditions on the ground.
More TSA workers call out sick amid shutdown
Travelers are facing long lines and delays at airports across the U.S. as a partial government shutdown affecting the Department of Homeland Security drags on. CBS News congressional reporter Taurean Small has more on the state of negotiations.
Severe weather threatens East Coast
The major winter storm that dumped as much as two feet of snow in parts of the Great Lakes and Midwest is now traveling east, bringing severe weather to large parts of the coast. CBS News correspondent Nicole Valdes reports.
Strait of Hormuz emerges as Iran war frontline
President Trump is calling on other nations that depend on oil exported through the vital Strait of Hormuz to help reopen it. The shipping lane, which carries about 20% of the world's oil supply, has been blocked since the war began nearly three weeks ago. CBS News' Imtiaz Tyab, Chris Livesay and Erica Brown have the latest.
New book looks at John Quincy Adams' life
Bob Crawford is best known as the bassist for the Avett Brothers. But he's also the author of a new book about the political career of John Quincy Adams. Crawford joins "The Takeout" to discuss his book "America's Founding Son."