The end of the semester is upon us and while it may seem like the barrage of term papers and study sessions will never end, there is a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel- Christmas is just around the corner. Despite having winters as warmer than many places’ summers, Southern California does offer a wide array of things to do to help get you in the Christmas spirit. So grab your roommate, put the books away for a couple of hours and celebrate the holiday season.

1. Brea Tree Lighting: For those unable to attend Monday night’s tree lighting at Biola, head out to Brea for a dose of festive cheer. On Thursday, December 6, the city of Brea will host its annual tree lighting ceremony. According to orangecounty.net there will be live music and entertainment, hot chocolate and cookies and a visit from Santa Claus and his Mrs. This event, held at the Brea Civic and Cultural Center, is free to the public.
2. Messiah: If a classy Christmas is what you have in mind then you should not miss seeing Handel’s Messiah. The Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony will be performing this baroque masterpiece at the Orange County Performing Arts Center on Dec. 16 at 3 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $95, as reported by orangecounty.net.
3. Disneyland: Many Biolans own Disneyland Annual Passports and those who do should definitely take advantage of the Christmas spectacular taking place at the park. A beautifully decorated tree stands tall at the start of Main Street welcoming visitors to the garland-lined streets of Disneyland. Be sure to grab some hot cocoa and a prime spot on Main Street to view the fireworks show, “Believe… In Holiday Magic,” which disneyland.com calls, “the perfect holiday event.” Culminating in a light snowfall, if this show does not put you in the holiday mood you might as well start calling yourself Scrooge.
4. Knott’s Berry Farm is an economic and charitable alternative to Disneyland. According to its website, if you bring a brand new toy worth $10 or more in, you will receive free admission. All items will be donated to the popular charity, Toys for Tots.
5. Boat Parade: This year, Newport Beach will host its 99th annual Christmas Boat Parade titled, “’Twas the Lights Before Christmas.” The event, which christmasboatparade.com dubs “Newport Beach’s Christmas card to the world,” begins Dec. 12 and runs through Dec. 16. Watch as canoes, sailboats and million dollar yachts sail through Newport Harbor decked out in their holiday best.
6. Figure Skating: From Nov. 15, 2007 until Jan. 21, 2008, downtown Los Angeles is offering a chance to show off your best figure skating moves in Pershing Square. Now celebrating its tenth anniversary, the outdoor rink is, “The City of Angel’s West Coast answer to Rockefeller Center,” according to downtownla.com. For just $8 including rentals, you and your friends can bundle up and enjoy the some quality time together outside of the library.

Remember, Christmas comes just once a year so embrace the holiday spirit while it’s here. With so many fun things to do, you’ll be singing “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” in no time.