Living in or around Syracuse, New York, you understand that we don't experience winter like other states in the North East. We get to be a part of a special kind of winter; one that is made just for us. We experience the worst snow fall and the coldest temperatures in the country some years (most years). But it's all good because even though we get stomped on by snow and other glorious types of winter weather, we have become accustomed to it and have made the best out of it. By the time Christmas rolls around, we're usually covered with snow. And even though these activities an adventures you can do at any point during the winter, they're always a little more fun around Christmas time.

1. Ice Skating at Clinton Square

This is one of my personal favorites. This is in the heart of downtown and the rink is right in front of the Christmas tree they light every year. There's always music playing and usually quite busy, unless you find the perfect time when the crowd is minimal. But around Christmas, you'll always find people skating there. They have a small building where you can rent the skates and put your bags in a locker. And then when your done, the rink is perfect walking distance to the nearest Starbucks so you can warm up your hands and enjoy some coffee or hot chocolate.

2. Lights On The Lake

This is a sight to see. All along the Onondaga Lake, there are a ton of different light fixtures set up along a long drive. There are all kinds of iconic figures set up including Santa's Village, and all of the Disney Princess's. Of course you have to go after dark for the full effect but this is definitely worth it. And of course, at the end of the adventure, Santa is at the end handing out candy canes.

3. Gingerbread Gallery

This is a collection of gingerbread houses that were admitted into a contest at the Erie Canal Museum and it is truly amazing. All of the hard work and the incredible creativity that has been put in to making the houses is a sight to see. They also look delicious.

4. Dicken's Christmas Village

This isn't in downtown Syracuse but just a short drive outside of the upstate New York city. It's instead in Skaneatles. This is a time when the village sets up their shops to look like they are a part of the old tale Christmas Carol. On Saturdays for a couple weeks in December before Christmas, from 12-4, volunteers dressed as characters from the story walk around the village and greet people on the streets. This embodies the spirit of Christmas and it's a special feeling to be in that type of setting around Christmas.

5.Go to Chuck Hafner's Christmas Tree Farm

This is truly a winter wonderland. If you're not looking for a Christmas tree, the shop is filled with ornaments and Christmas decorations. It's like a Christmas maze where you're surrounded by decorated tree and lights everywhere you look. There are wreaths and ornaments and round tables with cute gifts. If you're a Christmas person, go.

6. Attend a Musical or Holiday Concert at One of the Theaters

There are always great musicals around this time, whether they're at the recently renovated Landmark Theater or at the Syracuse Stage. This year, Mary Poppins has come to town and is currently being performed. Symphoria, Syracuse's symphony is always a great show and very entertaining. It's definitely worth the price see one of these shows.