With final exams and projects already beginning to pile up, it’s important to set aside some play and relaxation time while you continue to get all of your work done.
“The Nutcracker”
Check out this bucket list by CUI’s Taylor Dunn of things to do before this winter break. (Andrew Tawil/CU Independent)
This almost-sacred Christmas tradition rarely fails to bring out anyone’s holiday spirit. The Colorado Ballet will be performing “The Nutcracker” ballet at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House in Denver from Nov. 24 to Christmas Eve. Tickets range from $30 to $150. If you’re wanting a less traditional experience, the Moscow Ballet will also be performing “The Great Russian Nutcracker” at the Paramount Theatre on Dec. 9 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. These tickets are now ranging from about $70 to $250.
A Broadway Christmas Carol
“A little song, a little dance, a little eggnog down your pants…” “A Broadway Christmas Carol,” a parody of Charles Dicken’s original work, will be performed at the University Theatre beginning Dec. 7. It will be shown every weekend from then until Christmas, at $14 for CU students. Keeping Dickens’ story alive, this satire brings a comical spin on the beloved Christmas custom.
Ice-Skating
Whether you’re a little kid or you consider yourself “too old for this,” ice-skating is still a winter necessity. With rinks at the 29th street mall, Flatiron Crossing and the One Boulder Plaza, it’s a perfect addition to your holiday outings.
Secret Santa/ White Elephant
Of course it’s the season of giving, but why not make it a little bit more fun and memorable? Secret Santa takes the pressure off to spend all of your money, trying to find the perfect gift for every friend. If you agree to draw names and keep them secret, you won’t have to spend money on everyone, making it a good choice for larger groups of friends. Everyone brings a funny, inexpensive or used gift and all of the participants end up trading and stealing different gifts until the game is over. These exchanges are great for parties and make gift-giving a little less stressful.
Say goodbye to summer clothes
Considering college students usually don’t have unlimited closet space, it’s about that time of year to rid yourself of some of your summer clothes. It’s a good idea to leave yourself a few warm weather items, but get the rest ready to take back home with you during the break. Although it may add a little more work to your pile, you’ll be glad to have the extra room next semester.
Decorate a Tree
It’s hard to get in the holiday spirit without perfecting your own little Christmas tree. Target has cheap mini trees, with packages of ornaments in the dollar section. Not only do they make your room look festive, but you can’t deny the excitement of decorating your miniature tree.
Third Annual 1940’s White Christmas ball
If you’re looking to get a little classy this season, there will be a nostalgic holiday party at the Wings Over the Rockies Air and Space Museum, in Denver. Get your ‘40s and ‘50s getup ready and join in on the dancing and festive spirit on Dec. 7 from 6:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m.
CU Presents: Holiday Festival
This annual celebration will take place on Dec. 7, 8 and 9 at Macky Auditorium, for $14 . This holiday favorite includes performances by the College of Music’s choirs, orchestra, ensembles and faculty soloists, surrounded by decorations.
9news parade of lights in Denver
Beginning at the Denver City & County Building at 14th & Bannock Street, lit gingerbread houses, nutcrackers and elves will continue for two miles through the streets of Downtown Denver. The parade will take place on Nov. 30 at 8:00 p.m. and Dec. 1 at 6:00 p.m., free of admission.
Relax
With everything going on this month, it can be hard to give yourself a break. Before finals begin, try and treat yourself to a massage or some yoga to calm down. Throughout the stress, remember to stay hydrated, attempt to stay well rested and get some exercise in.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Taylor Dunn at Taylor.dunn@colorado.edu.
