Defend the Pine Bush. A benefit to keep development out of the pine bush ecosystem. Doors open at 7 p.m. bands start at 8 p.m. and will be held at the Low Beat, 335 Central Avenue Albany 12206.

Blood Drive. Will be held by the Latham-Colonie Council Knights of Columbus #3394, in conjunction with the American Red Cross. 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 328 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, 12110.

Holiday Gifts & Crafts Fair. Helderberg Lutheran Church holds this event annually to help raise funds for restoration projects. Unique gifts, bake sale & thrift store. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1778 Helderberg Trail, Berne.

Cookies with Santa at Karie Jean's Closet.  Come spend part of the afternoon with Santa, reading stories and snacking on cookies! We’re asking those attending to bring a pair of new, unused pajamas. They will be brought to the Christmas Pajama Promise, who are dedicated to giving every child an awesome Christmas! 1 to 2:30 p.m. at  50 Voorheesville Ave. Voorheesville.

Community Caregivers 5th Annual Holiday Open House.  We will be collecting nonperishable food items as well as personal hygiene and feminine products for a local food pantry. We also welcome any donation. 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Community Caregivers Office, 2021 Western Avenue, Suite 104 Albany 12203

“Be A Patron” at the Discovery Center. Shop knowing you are supporting the missions and programs of each participating museum and cultural institution. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Albany Pine Bush, 195 New Karner Road, Suite 1 Albany, 12205

Holiday Greens Boutique. The pre-sale fundraiser that includes a $5 donation to the garden club with purchase will take place at 2 to 6 p.m. at Pruyn House at 207 Old Niskayuna Road, Newtonville, 12110. Boutique hours: Dec 6, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m; Dec 7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Albany County Sheriff’s Office Toy Drive. This year’s program will provide services to 100 families with nearly 200 children. You have an opportunity to participate in supporting this program by attending  the toy drive. You can also provide financial assistance to the program by contributing to the collection buckets at the toy drive. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bethlehem Price Chopper in 1395 New Scotland Ave, Slingerlands, 12159.

Community Thanksgiving Dinner to benefit the local food pantries and the Hilltown Christmas. Turkey and ham with all the trimmings. Eat in or take out. 12 to 4 p.m. at Voorheesville American Legion Post 1493, 31 Voorheesville Ave., Voorheesville.

Wanted: Vendors, crafters. Voorheesville Dollars for Scholars will hold a Vendor & Craft Fair. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Voorheesville’s Clayton A. Bouton High School at 432 New Salem Rd. Email