BOSTON CHOCOLATE TOURS Don't worry about the calories on this two-and-a-half-hour tasting tour. You'll walk off some of them while you stroll around Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and the South End learning about chocolate and its Boston history. They don't call it Boston cream pie for nothing. Saturdays at 10:30 a.m., rain or snow. $48. Reservations required. Back Bay Tours meet at Tealuxe, 108 Newbury St.; South End tours meet at Aroa, 1651 Washington St. 781-780-3858. www.bostonchocolatetours.com
SEASONAL SIPS: THURSDAY TASTINGS AT MERITAGE It’s not all about eggnog, so stop by Meritage tonight to sample several wines and learn about “Holiday Bubbly’’ from sommelier Jonas Atwood. Enjoy paired tasting spoons and small bites by chef Daniel Bruce. Dec. 17 from 5:30-7 p.m. (The next one is “For the Sweet Tooth’’ on Jan. 7). $25. Meritage, Boston Harbor Hotel, 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston. 617-439-3995. www.meritagetherestaurant.com
HOLIDAY TEA AT THE BOSTON PARK PLAZA HOTEL & TOWERS Seasonal treats are added to the three-course afternoon tea where kids get a complimentary Santa Spritzer and adults choose from a complimentary alcoholic or non-alcoholic Tea Nog. Dec. 18 at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. (Fri-Sun through Jan. 3). $32.50, $16.50 under age 9. Reservations are recommended. Swan’s Café, the Boston Park Plaza Hotel & Towers, 50 Park Plaza at Arlington Street, Boston. 617-654-1906. www.bostonparkplaza.com
THE BEEHIVE SANTA BRUNCH Extra thick cut French toast served with chantilly cream and maple syrup ($11), Beehive eggs Benedict with Virginia ham ($12.50), spinach ($12), or smoked salmon ($13), and other treats beat cereal and juice. Santa will be there for photos (bring your camera). Dec. 19 from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. The Beehive, 541 Tremont St., South End, Boston. 617-423-0069. www.beehiveboston.com
