The winter season is here, and with it come the holidays. If you’re anything like me, Christmas is the perfect excuse to go absolutely ballistic with celebration. And since the holiday spirit is a great escape from college and life stress, nobody really complains about participating anyway. Unless you’re a Grinch.

1. Tree farms.

I grew up in San Diego, California, so tree farms are different than the ones here in Bellingham. I’m used to parking lots littered with short little trees ready to net-n-go. So the idea of a legit tree farm, where you can even cut down your own, is unbelievably exciting. Kelly Rd Christmas Tree Farm and Gift Shoppe is a good local farm to check out with a big group of friends!

2. Deck the Old City Hall.

Did you know our Watcom Museum is hosting its fourth year of holiday festivities? Neither did I. If you’re looking for something warmer and relaxed, then strolling through the decorated museum could be more of your style.

3. Free horse-drawn carriage rides.

Remember the Christmas movie from a while back with the horse-drawn carriage ride through the snow? Or was that a different film where they rode through the festive city… Or both? You get the idea. It’s a stereotypical holiday season activity, and all you have to do is swing by the Fairhaven Village Inn to hop in that bandwagon!

4. Igloo Design.

I never built an igloo before. But I heard it’s pretty great. So grab your friends, bundle up, and head to the mountains with one mission in mind: building the best igloo Bellingham has ever seen. There’s plenty of snow to go around, so now is the time to get creative!

5. Create your own holiday tradition.

Being away from home when the holidays are approaching can be an unfamiliar feeling. But regardless, surrounding yourself with the people you love and brainstorming ideas on how to make the most of the cold weather and holiday cheer is an uplifting idea!

6. Mount Baker Theater.

The Mount Baker Theater is always full of spectacular shows and events. As the holidays roll around, check out their list of shows. With a selection of musicals to dance performances, the theater will bring expression and art to this winter season.

7. Whatcom Wonderland.

A year ago, Bellingham used to have an infamous family that would decorate their house with extravagant Christmas lights. Although they are no longer participating this year, it's still a great idea to blast holiday music and go on a drive with friends in hunt for the best lit house in town.

8. Binge-watch festive movies.

If all else fails, or it's too cold/expensive/both to go outside, then the internet has you covered. Time to re-visit all those classic Christmas films and realize you still love or now hate them. Also, now that you're older, you may notice details that child-you was never aware of.

9. Ring of Fire and Hope.

2016 has hit hard for a lot of people. After Christmas on the 31^st, join others at Birch Bay shoreline to light flares to create a ring of fire and hope for the new year. It should be a pretty experience to the eyes and soul, and I’m considering checking this one out in person.