It can be tough to focus on the holidays during the end of the semester in the midst of finals, but no matter what your budget or time constraints may be, there are ways to fit a little holiday cheer into the end of your semester. If you need some help getting into the holiday spirit, there are many local options that may do the trick!
Boston Common Tree Lighting
Thursday, November 29- 6:00 P.M.
Free of Charge!
Bundle up and head to the Boston Common to see the kick-off to Christmas in Boston. Usually this event includes dancing and singing performances followed by Mayor Menino pressing the button to light the city’s tree. Hundreds of college students from in and around Boston attend every year. And, it’s free of charge!
Ice Skating on the Frog Pond
Regular Hours: 10:00 A.M.-9:00 P.M.
$5 to skate, $9 for skate rentals
This is another activity on the Boston common that falls in the college student’s budget. If you’ve never skated before, not to worry, you can schedule some lessons with an instructor. This is a great activity for a big group and always good for a laugh. When you’re done, head over to a local coffee shop like Thinking Cup for some hot chocolates- just steps away from The Common!
Christmas Shopping at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Instead of going to the crowded mall for your Christmas shopping, head into the city to Faneuil Hall. Always decorated beautifully, this marketplace has many of the same stores as the local malls, but it’s much nicer to walk around in.
See The Nutcracker at the Opera House
Student Rush Tickets- only $20!
The Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker is acclaimed nationwide. This classic story about a little girl’s Christmas toy coming to life is bound to get you in the Christmas mood. Tickets are pretty pricey normally, however, The Boston Ballet offers student rush tickets! Get to the Opera House downtown on Washington Street about two hours before the show starts. Bring your student ID and $20. Tickets are cash only, and there is a limit to 1 per student ID. Just ask the box office for student rush tickets and you’re good to go!
Invitation Night- Newburyport, MA
December 7th and 14th, 6:00-9:00 P.M.
All the shops in downtown Newburyport stay open late on these nights to encourage holiday shopping. Located right on the water, Newburyport looks beautiful all lit up for Christmas. Make a night of it and have dinner at one of the many restaurants downtown. On these nights, many of the shops provide complimentary treats such as homemade cookies and peppermint Schnapps hot chocolate. This is a great opportunity to support local businesses and check some people off your shopping list, or just to enjoy the scenery.