Every day [more like every minute] people complain about how there is absolutely nothing to do in Syracuse but tour the newly extravagant Destiny USA. However, with the changing weather and the upcoming holiday season, Syracuse is seeing an influx of fun holiday events to keep the average, bored Syracusian or visitor entertained. Every one of these events is available to students before they leave campus for winter break; and those staying in the area have numerous other enjoyable events to keep occupied during winter break.

Syracuse Ballet presents The Nutcracker / Dec.6 – Dec. 7 / The Oncenter Civic Center Theatres

Students can join audiences this season as they watch local artists put the magic back into The Nutcracker for a two-day only-performance. Tickets start at $16.

Syracuse Holiday Crafts Spectacular / Dec. 6 – Dec. 8 / Empire Expo Center – NYS Fairgrounds

During the Syracuse Holiday Crafts Spectacular, there will be 125 artists showcasing their work and sharing a little bit of themselves with customers. This event provides a place to find artisan, handcrafted gifts for the family while simultaneously supporting the community. Get gifts and support the community for admission of only $5.

“Polar Express” / Dec. 7 – Dec. 21 / Museum of Science & Technology [MOST]

At only $6.50 per ticket, watching the “Polar Express” at the MOST downtown is a steal. Audiences are able to enjoy the exhilarating story of a young boy trying to find his faith in Santa based on the award-winning children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg played out on the dome-shaped big screen.

A Christmas Carol / Nov. 24 – Dec. 29 / Syracuse Stage

After a seven year absence, A Christmas Carol returns to the Central New York area as a music-driven edition completely new to Syracuse audiences. This rendition is directed by Peter Amster and features students from Syracuse University and Syracuse area middle schools. Tickets begin at $30.

Lights on the Lake / Nov. 21 – Jan. 12 / Onondaga Lake Park

Lights on the Lake is a two mile path through elaborate, life-size illuminated displays along Onondaga Lake, which includes themed segments and an unforgettable grand finale. As this year is the 24th anniversary, attendants can expect a well-crafted show. Admission begins at $10 per car with discounts for Wegmans Shopper Club Card holders.

The Gingerbread Gallery / Nov. 22 – Jan. 5 / Erie Canal Museum

For the 28th year, the Erie Canal Museum is once again transformed into an 1800s street scene displaying over 40 gingerbread creations made locally by professional and amateur bakers from across the region. Tickets are $5.

Annual Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles 2013 / Nov.29 – Dec.22 / Village of Skaneateles

A 40-minute drive to the village of Skaneateles showcases a village transformed into a Victorian town for its annual Dickens Festival. Every Saturday and Sunday, actors and actresses stroll the streets of Skaneateles performing interactive street theatre in Victorian garb and speech. The event also features samples of free chestnuts and eggnog, a horse-drawn carriage ride, a brass band or bagpiper at the gazebo by the lake,, and the Revel Live show each day at 2 p.m. with the entire Dickens crew.

Clinton Square Ice Skating / Starts Nov.24 / Clinton Square Ice Rink

Before the season is up everyone should try to get out and go skating in the middle of downtown Syracuse. With admission being only $3 for skating [not including rentals], it can be very affordable for a group of students to attend as a final hurrah before departing.