by Sierra Rainbolt, staff writer

Although sleeping in and sitting by the fire are essential to the best winter break experience, there are several other activities that can make this break one to remember.

Holiday spirit only comes once a year, and with it, comes some traditional and unique activities that one can’t miss.

In nearby Walnut Creek, there is the annual outdoor ice skating rink, decorated with adorable lights and accompanied with a local radio station to provide music.

The rink is located directly next to the Walnut Creek Library and will be open from now until Jan. 16. The rink is the perfect place to grab some friends and go have some fun.

Everyone knows that some of the best movies of the year come out during the holidays so use this time off to catch up.

Hit all of the most anticipated movies of the season such as “Sherlock Holmes” (Dec. 16), “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol” (Dec. 21), “The Adventures of Tintin” (Dec. 21), and “We Bought A Zoo” (Dec. 23).

Plan movie nights and enjoy the wonderful lineup of available movies.

Now that you’ve seen movies in the theater, host a movie marathon.

Pick a theme, holiday or not, and spend a day lounging around together. Don’t forget the popcorn and favorite holiday snacks.

One of the best parts of this time of year is the tasty, traditional treats.

Inviting friends over and baking all of these recipes is one way to enjoy and savor the flavors of the season.

Another way to incorporate such delicious traditions into a fun time is to host a cookie exchange. Have friends bake their own recipe and then get together to exchange goodies.

Before the lights come down pack the car full of friends or family and drive around to see the neighborhood Christmas light displays.

Even students who don’t celebrate Christmas, seeing the gorgeous lights can be an easy and free way to enjoy the holiday season.

Winter break holds a great opportunity to take advantage of the free time.

“I’m most excited for Christmas caroling and comfort food,” said senior Samantha O’Shea.

Just like Samantha, get a group of friends and family together and go caroling. It’s a great tradition that allows the neighborhood to enjoy the musical festivity.

Experiencing such fun activities can create new memories, while keeping old traditions alive.  This season hosts a giving spirit, so spend a day volunteering.

Recruit some of your loved ones and visit the local food bank or help out with some of the other community volunteer programs. This is a way to spend time effectively and feel accomplished afterwards.

What is a winter break without some snow? If possible, head up to Tahoe with friends or family to complete the holiday break.

“I’m planning on snowboarding ever day,” said junior Jacob Lundal.

For students with a vacation home, now is the perfect time to spend some time there.

“My family is going to our cabin and going snowboarding, which should be a lot of fun,” said senior Katie Shuck.

South Lake Tahoe has some great deals on single day ski lift tickets, at resorts such as Sierra at Tahoe.

Snow activities like sledding, snow shoeing, and ice skating are economical or even free.

With a variety of resorts and activities around Lake Tahoe, there’s a lot to do whether it’s hitting the slopes or just spending time in the mountains.

As the saying goes, the holidays is the time to bring loved ones together.

“I love staying in and having my big brothers home from college over break,” said senior Shannon Wyne.

Before heading back to school, make sure to take a day to relax and recharge.

Take a day for some “me-time” by playing video games or reading a good book in order to prepare for the new year.