‘Tis the season of festivities
Courtesy of compassandtwine.com
by TIFFANY LIU
Bringing a rush of cold weather and a flurry of activities, the holiday season is a hectic time for most as they prepare for final exams and vacation; but rest is important as it helps prevent extreme exhaustion and other health problems.
While some enjoy their vacations by shopping or reveling in the fresh air, others prefer to curl up with a cup of hot chocolate.
“During vacation, I usually relax by catching up on sleep. However, this year I am going to begin a new tradition by spending time with my relatives in Colorado,” said Vincent Galaz, junior.
For those interested in festivals, the Renegade Craft Fair is a free outdoor market with a variety of vendors, food, and merchandise. Located at Grand Park in Los Angeles, it occurs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 10 and 11. According to renegadecraft.com, visitors can take the Metro Red or Purple lines and exit at the Civic Center/ Grand Park Stop.
Open from Nov. 20 to Dec. 25, Smorgasburg is a Sunday market festival located at the same spot as the Alameda Produce Market in Downtown Los Angeles, according to la.smorgasburg.com. Unlike the Renegade Craft Fair, Smorgasburg focuses more on food vendors, with a variety of cuisines ranging from crunchy tacos to fresh oysters and more.
The winter season is also a time for some to unplug their electronics and relax with family over board games, skiiing, or other activities.
“Every year, my family and I celebrate Christmas Eve at Disneyland. During the rest of the holiday season, I enjoy baking, ice skating, and sledding,” said Emily Valle, senior.
Besides spending time with friends and family, the holiday season is also an opportunity to help those less fortunate.
Care Mission USA will be serving hot meals on Dec. 11 from 2:30 to 5 p.m. at 435-437 E. Seventh St. in Los Angeles, as they do every Sunday (except the first one of the month), according to care-mission.org. Volunteers over 12 years old are welcome and no prior registration is required. To claim their hours of community service, high school volunteers must send a message to Gary Chen (626) 475-4717, with their name and school.
While concentrating on school activities and work is important, a period of relaxation should be added to this holiday’s list, as it may be beneficial to one’s health by lessening the chances of over exhaustion.