It’s finally that time of year again – no longer can an ugly sweater or spontaneous Christmas carol be met with an eye-roll and a comment such as, “It’s not even September yet.” However, just as holiday spirit rises proportionally with number of candy canes consumed, final exam anxiety increases with each passing day. Under the looming cloud of tests and papers, it’s easy for Christmas excitement to fall under a shadow of work. If you’re ready to dispel the darkness with twinkle lights and pure holiday joy, look no further. This carefully planned Notre Dame Holiday Adventure is guaranteed to put the jingle back in your bells.
First stop: Compton Family Ice Arena
Begin your journey by participating in one of the most iconic winter activities. Skating rates are cheaper for students, so bring your ID and release your inner ice princess. For extra fun, bring a special someone to reenact the date scene from Elf.
Next up: O’Shaughnessy Hall
For your next stop, swing by O’Shag for a cup of Waddick’s legendary hot cocoa. Sip your hot chocolate in a booth with friends as the chill from the ice arena melts away. If you really want to soak in the festivity, drink your cocoa under the tree in the atrium and wonder how long it took them to decorate all 500 feet of it.
Next up: Hesburgh Library
Before your study anxiety is triggered, be assured you that you will not be doing any work in the library during your adventure. Instead, tap into your inner child and read an old-fashioned picture book. Experience waves of nostalgia pass over you as you reread classics like How the Grinch Stole Christmas and The Polar Express. It may feel childish, but what’s wrong with that? Kids don’t have to take exams.
Next up: Washington Hall
After all this traveling, you’re going to want a little break. Why not swing by Washington Hall and rest at a festive concert? Acapella groups like Halftime and The Undertones are performing their best holiday and contemporary favorites this week, and tickets are available at the door. While they’re not the Michael BublĂ©/Mariah Carey Christmas collaboration concerts you’ve always dreamed of, they might be just as magical.
Next up: The Golden Dome
A Notre Dame adventure wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the most iconic building on campus. The main rotunda is beautiful year round, but especially so in December. Now’s the chance to take those Christmas card pictures that will make all your friends at other schools jealous. Bonus points if you wear matching reindeer antlers.
Last stop: The Grotto
As your Notre Dame Holiday Adventure comes to an end, take time to slow down and reflect on all of the things that make this time of year special. No matter your hometown, major, religion, or dining hall affiliation, the Grotto provides the perfect space to come together as students and bask in the love that is shared there.
So, put a little adventure on your to-do list this December. Your holiday spirit will thank you.
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Images: 1, 2, 3 (provided by author), 4, 5, 6 (provided by author), 7