By Caroline ’14 and Tahirah ’12
Connected to the Grove, The Farmers Market is a whole other site to explore. Originally a gathering place for farmers to sell their produce, the Farmers Market is now a unique complex of small restaurants and boutiques. My preferences are the Mexican restaurant ¡Loteria! and Bennett’s Ice Cream.
2. The Union Rescue Mission is a great homeless shelter to spend time volunteering over winter break. You can reserve spots to serve a meal to the homeless. And, you can easily turn the community service work into a social gathering by inviting along extended family members or friends.
3. At Disneyland, the park gets decked out for the holidays, with nightly snowfalls for us Los Angelenos, and Christmas-themed characters walk around with our favorite Disney characters. Similarly, Knott’s Berry Farm transforms into Knott’s “Merry” Farm, while Universal Studios goes green with their annual “Grinchmas.” Seriously, who wouldn’t want to take a picture with Cindy Lou Who?
4. If you’re looking for a different holiday experience, try stopping by Marina Del Ray. From the bay to Newport Beach, boat parades light up the night as families and friends try to outdo each other for the most festive and decorated boats.
5. You’d find enjoyment in any and all lighting ceremonies at shopping centers across the country. Just imagine the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center! Unfortunately, while many local tree-lightings have already occurred (typically the day or weekend after Thanksgiving), it’s still nice to make a trip to any of the malls to view the gigantic trees and menorahs one evening and see the lights for yourselves. Bundle up in your tackiest holiday sweaters and grab a festive holiday flavor at Starbucks, because I can guarantee these chilly nights will put you in the holiday spirit.
Some Marlborough girls might find relaxing difficult as we are used to such a non-stop schedule. In that case, you have these useful tips to keep busy, but also remember to take advantage of this precious free time to return to School in January well rested and rejuvenated!
