"Five Things You Need to Know Today" is a Patch column that provides readers with essential, daily information at a glance. Check back later for more, and let us know what you think of the five things in the comments section.

1. Mayor Menino will host a holiday celebration in honor of Top it Off, the West Roxbury Main Streets business that was voted best decorated window in the Deck the Windows of Boston Main Streets Contest. 6 p.m. at Top It Off.
2. The West Roxbury Neighborhood Council will meet tonight. Scheduled agenda items include: Anthony Ustayev (owner of Christo's) is looking to put in Los Amigos (Mexican food) at 1743 Centre St., a few doors down from his pizza shop. 7:30 p.m. District E-5 Police Station. All WRNC meetings open to the public.
3. Tonight is the first night of Hanukkah, and there will be a public menorah lighting on the Boston Common at 3 p.m.
4. Check out West Roxbury resident Anthony Lobosco's 'Blue Christmas' art exhibit at the Brookline Bank for free during branch hours. Lobosco's works are mostly blue or black and white in approach and offer a more solemn and reflective take on the season. 
5. Do you want to win the Boston Public Schools $100,000? Participate inthe Deck Your House holiday house contest. Several winners will win money to pay your heating bill.