With finals week looming in the not-so-distant future, the stress levels around campus are skyrocketing. Papers must be written, presentations must be rehearsed, exams must be studied for and in the midst of all this craziness the holiday season is in full swing. You may feel obligated to set up camp in the library for the next two weeks, but treat yourself to a study break and take advantage of all the holiday festivities occurring around campus. By celebrating the holidays and allowing yourself to de-stress, it really can be the most wonderful time of the year! Here are a few suggestions for how to get in the holiday spirit:
Go to Christmasfest
The St. Olaf Christmas Festival is nationally-renowned for its celebration of music, presented by the orchestra and five choirs. The St. Olaf Choir, Cantorei, Manitou Singers, Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus are participating this year, as well as the St. Olaf Orchestra. Go listen to your friends and classmates perform, and prepare to have your mind blown by their incredible talent. Tickets are free for students.
‘An A Cappella Christmas’
Go to the Pause on Thursday, December 12th at 7:30 p.m. to see the Limestones, Agnes and Krossmen perform all of your favorite Christmas songs. Free cookies and hot beverages are included – all you need to bring is an ugly sweater and a jolly spirit.
Decorate your room
Sometimes, all you need is a change of scenery. Get some cheap Christmas lights and string them around your room, or hang stockings on the outside of your door. Feeling crafty? Cut out snowflakes from blank sheets of paper and hang them from the walls. If you want a larger commitment, check out the Friday Flower table and see if they have any small pines. Your room will be a winter wonderland in no time!
Listen to holiday music
Nothing says the holidays like Christmas music. Pandora has some great holiday stations, from “Rockin’ Holidays” and “Classical Christmas” to “Hanukkah” and “Tropical Holidays”. There’s something for everyone, so go ahead and crank up your favorite festive tunes!
Build a snowman
It may seem like a hassle while trudging to class and tracking slush into your room, but all of the snow is great for building snowmen! Challenge your friends to see who can make the most creative snowman, or join forces and build a giant one. Bonus: Making snowmen can be pretty exhausting, so go ahead and count it as your workout for the day. No need to hit the gym after packing snow for an hour!
Photo Credits: Christmas lights, Christmasfest
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