Holiday Concerts, Shopping, and Activities to Keep You Feeling Festive

This time of year evokes two conflicting emotions—study for finals (blah) or enjoy the holiday season. For those of you ready to take advantage of all Harvard and Cambridge have to offer for the holidays, here are some events happening over the next two weeks to keep you in a jolly mood. Enjoy holiday-themed concerts, shopping, and other events right here in Cambridge (no T-ride required).

Concerts:

Tuesday, Dec. 6

If your holiday consists of menorahs instead of elves or if you're a fan of good music and potato pancakes, go watch Shani, Harvard's only Jewish a cappella group during their Latkapella Winter Jam featuring a guest performance from Under Construction. This event begins at 7:00 p.m. at Harvard Hillel and latkes will be served!

Friday, Dec. 9

If you're looking for a traditional classical concert, the Harvard-Radcliffe Chorus will be performing Bach's "Christmas Oratorio" at 8:00 p.m. in Sanders Theater. Tickets ($10 for students and seniors, $20 regular admission) are available at the Harvard Box Office.

The Harvard Noteables will be performing their Fall Concert at 8:00 p.m. in Lowell Lecture Hall. Their performance will feature songs from Wicked, Les Miserables, and more. Tickets ($6 for students, $10 regular admission) available at the door or at the Harvard Box Office.

Shopping:

Dec. 10-11

Enjoy the Holly Fair at the Cambridge Center for Adult Education, where they're selling handmade jewelry, bags, scarves, natural beauty items, ceramics, ornaments, and much more. The fair is located at 42 and 56 Brattle Street and will run from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 10 and from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Dec. 11.

Now through Dec. 24

The Harvard Square Holiday Craft Fair at the First Parish Unitarian Church is running until the day before Christmas. There is a wide selection of original and affordable gifts from local and international tradespeople. A great chance to get unique presents for everyone on your list. See the website for more details regarding hours and vendors.

Want to study with the lovely smell of pine wafting in your nose? Head over to the Cambridge Center for Adult Education and purchase a tree, or for those looking for something a bit smaller, wreaths, garlands, and more. The sale is open from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. daily.

Activities:

Wednesday, Dec. 7

Exclusive to freshmen, go to the First Year Social Committee's Frost Fest in Annenberg from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. to construct gingerbread houses, decorate sugar cookies, make dorm decorations, and take holiday photos with friends.

Sunday, Dec. 11

Want to show off your triple axel? Your chance will arrive on Dec. 11 with the grand opening of The Rink at The Charles Hotel. Even if you have never strapped on skates before, anyone can come and learn to glide across the ice or just enjoy the festivities of the opening. There will be performances from the Harvard Figure Skating Club, complimentary hot chocolate, carols from the Christmas Revels Carolers, and a visit from Santa Claus himself. The rink will be open from Dec. 9 until March 17, 2012. Daily admission is $5 and $5 to rent skates.