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With about three weeks left until Christmas break, this can be one of the most stressful times of the year for students. Finals, essays, and projects loom ominously, and it seems like break will never come. But if you find yourself needing a study break or some extra motivation, there are plenty of events around campus and the Twin Cities to get you going.

Christmas at Northwestern returns to campus this weekend! Enjoy an evening of music and worship, featuring the Northwestern Choir, UNW Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Women’s Chorale, Varsity Men’s Chorus, and the University of Northwestern Dance Theatre company. Performances will take place every day, from Friday, December 3, through Sunday, December 5. While tickets are still available for every performance, make sure you purchase yours soon, so you don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to celebrate the birth of Christ. 

On Saturday, December 4, join UNW Core for their Paint, Sip, and Chill event in G203 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Take some time to relax with friends and enjoy an evening together before the last week of classes. Check Core’s Instagram page for more information. 

UNW Core will also be hosting a Christmas Bingo on Monday, December 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Billy dining room. Come for your chance to win gifts and prizes. Wear your ugly Christmas sweater to complete the festivities. 

Student Government and FORCE are hosting their annual semi-formal Winter Dance on Saturday, December 11. So come dressed up for an evening of dancing and time with friends before heading into finals week. 

With Christmas right around the corner, many Christmas events are popping up all around the Twin Cities. The European Christmas Market at Union Depot will be open every weekend, now through Sunday, December 19. Experience an authentic Christkindl Market, like those in Germany and Austria, right here in St. Paul, complete with crafts, gifts, and delicious food. Maybe take a break from studying and enjoy some time exploring this Twin Cities Christmas tradition. You might even check some things off your Christmas shopping list. 

The GLOW Holiday Festival is returning to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds this winter. Now a walk-through event, bundle up and experience over a million lights, a three-story ice palace, a State Fair food court, and more. This event happens every day, now through January 2, so visit their website to get your tickets. 

Whether you’re taking a study break or planning to attend an event for that extra boost of motivation to finish your work, take some time before finals week to relax and enjoy the Christmas season.