A roast goose with chestnut stuffing embodies the winter holidays as much as snow-dusted fir trees and brightly wrapped packages. Whether your tradition includes Yorkshire pudding or potatoe latkes, elegant poached pears or frosted holiday cookies, a festive meal is an essential part of celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, or New Year's Eve with friends and family. <P> Williams-Sonoma Collection <I>Christmas</I> offers an array of more than 40 time-honored favorites and tempting new ideas. An impressive roast beef or savory rack of lamb will satisfy every appetitie, while a colorful wild rice pilaf or crisp salad with persimmons adds freshness and color to any table. Start your holiday morning with panettone French toast, or for an open house, tempt guests with mulled wine and chocolate truffles. No matter what the event, the recipes in these pages will make your holiday menu a success. <P> Full-color photographs of each dish help you decide which one to prepare, and each recipe is accompanied by a photographic side note that highlights an essential ingredient or technique. In addition, a comprehensive basics section offers valuable tips on baking, roasting, and planning ahead, so you can more easily share joyful holiday meals with your loved ones.