Like most college students, we love going out and exploring new places, even those close to where we live. There is always something new to do in Southern California; after all, the Inland Empire is right next to both Los Angeles and Orange County. Winter break is quickly approaching, and with it comes the ever popular question: what are you doing over break? Usually, people would respond with the obvious and the mundane, like spending time with friends and family and just relaxing. However, after deeper contemplation, is that really the best we can do? Take advantage of your break and check out some of these places with loved ones, because we hear the world could be coming to an end, and this could be your last vacation ever alive on Earth. Cheers!
In Los Angeles:
1. Public Star Party
Where: Griffith Observatory
When: Dec. 22, 2-9:45 pm
What better way to look at the universe than through a variety of telescopes.The best part
is that it’s free!
2. Exhibition Tour: Florence at the Dawn of the Renaissance: Painting and Illumination,
1300-1350
Where: The Getty
When: Daily through Feb. 9
Experience a bit of Florence without leaving the country! These early Renaissance
masterpieces include seven of Giotto’s paintings which is the largest number ever
assembled here in North America.
3. “A Nation Emerges:The Mexican Revolution Revealed”
Where: Central Library(Downtown LA)
When: Ongoing until Feb. 23
View the Mexican Revolution through photographs taken by Mexican and foreign
photographers.
4. Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
Where: The Wiltern
When: Dec. 14 4:00 and 7:30 pm
For one night only, the critically acclaimed Moscow Ballet will perform its Great Russian
Nutcracker, a holiday favorite.
Price: $40-$250
5. Downtown on Ice
Where: Outdoor Ice Skating Rink at Pershing Square
When: Through Jan. 21
Enjoy ice skating in the middle of the city along with other holiday festivities.
Price: $6 for one hour session, $2 for skate rentals
6. Holidays at Universal Citywalk
Where: Universal Studios City Walk
When: Through Dec. 25
Enjoy a Christmas tree, shopping, dining, and free entertainment.
In Orange County:
7. “Believe ….in Holiday Magic” Fireworks Spectacular
Where: Disneyland
When: Through Jan. 6
Enjoy the festivities at Disneyland along with a spectacular fireworks show that is sure
to make this holiday magical. Fireworks can also be viewed from outside the park if you
wish to just enjoy a night out at Downtown Disney.
8. Christmas Boat Parade
Where: Newport Beach
When: Dec. 19-23
A beautiful display of festively decorated boats will dazzle Newport Beach and is sure to
be a hit as it celebrates its 104th anniversary!
9. Winter Wonderland at the Zoo
Where: Santa Ana
When: Dec. 1-31
Explore the Santa Ana zoo with a touch of holiday décor.
Price: $10 Adults
10. First Night in Fullerton
Where: Downtown Fullerton
When: Dec. 31
What better way to bring in the new year then in a celebration in downtown Fullerton that
includes live entertainment, an ice skating rink , plenty of food, and a fireworks show at
midnight.
11. Knott’s Merry Farm
Where: Knott’s Berry Farm
When: Through Jan. 6
A holiday parade, carolers, and lights are all at Knott’s this holiday season!
Price:
$35.99
In Riverside:
12. Holidaze Dance Review
Where: La Sierra Park
When: Dec. 7
Visit Santa, have breakfast, create holiday crafts, dance, enjoy a Jingle Bell Rock Show and participate in a Feliz Navidad Social!
13. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens
Where: Riverside Community Players Theater
When: Dec. 8 at 7:30pm
A traditional holiday play for all times and ages.
$15 per ticket
14. On Pointe Dance Studio’s The Nutcracker
Where: Knott’s Berry Farm
When: Through Jan. 6
A traditional and popular ballet by the members of a Riverside dance studio.
Price:
$25 per ticket
15. Gingerbread house workshop
Where: Orange Terrace Community Park
When: Dec. 13
Join Mrs. Claus and busy elves and create your own edible masterpiece, all materials included.
Price:
$15
16. Christmas Carol: On the Air
Where: RCC: Performance Riverside
When: Dec. 22 at 8pm
A beloved holiday classic retold in a fresh, modern, and humorous angle.
Price:
Varies
17. Festival of Lights in downtown
Where: Main Street
When: Through Dec. 24
Lights illuminate Downtown Riverside as food trucks and an ice skating rink entertain.
