If puppies, holiday-themed study breaks and free cookies aren’t enough to distract you from the stress of finals season, check out these Philadelphia events to get your mind off that last exam:
Christmas Village in Philadelphia
For a quick dose of holiday spirit, head to the Christmas Village, located in front of City Hall until Dec. 24. This holiday market — designed after traditional German Christmas markets — features more than 80 wooden booths selling gifts, jewelry, toys and delicious holiday foods.
Rothman Ice Rink
Also in front of City Hall is the Rothman Ice Rink, now in its third year there. You can forget finals by focusing on trying to keep your balance and then grabbing hot chocolate afterwards at the Rothman Institute Cabin. This year, the rink also features the America’s Garden Capital Maze, a brand-new pop-up holiday garden in the form of maze. If you don’t get a chance to catch this before the end of finals season, don’t worry — the rink will remain open until Feb. 26.
Linvilla Orchards’ Christmasland
Linvilla Orchards offers more than just apple picking — Linvilla’s Christmasland runs through Dec. 24. Cut down a Christmas tree if you’re feeling particularly into the Christmas spirit or just enjoy the decorations, hot mulled cider and smell of freshly cut pine.
Gourmet Latkes at Latkepalooza
If you’re a stress-eater, Latkepalooza, held at the Gershman Y on Sunday, Dec. 18, can provide you with a festive outlet for all your finals worries. At this event, some of the top chefs in Philadelphia — including the chefs behind Sabrina’s Cafe and Federal Donuts — come together to present their takes on the traditional Hanukkah treat. A general admission ticket buys you 10 latkes and access to the event’s live music and Hanukkah crafting.
Gingerbread Architecture Challenge
Channel your finals stress into a different sort of competition — gingerbread architecture. This event, offered at the Center for Architecture and Design now through Dec. 24, challenges anyone and everyone to come up with the most elaborate, impressive gingerbread display they can for a chance to win $500. The competition’s registration period has passed, but you can always go to marvel at the creations and cast your vote for the best display.
“Headed to the White House” at the Constitution Center
For a holiday-unrelated but still timely activity, head to the National Constitution Center and check out its “Headed to the White House” exhibit before it ends on Dec. 31. It’s an interactive exhibition that examines the U.S. election system and allows you to roleplay as a presidential hopeful. You’ll join the race, try to earn the nomination and then try to win the election.
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