Holiday Season Kicks Off in Cambridge

Halloween has barely just ended, but the holiday season is fast approaching—just look at the Christmas decorations in windows and Thanksgiving turkeys in the grocery stores as evidence.

Although the holidays may bring us final exams, there are still plenty of opportunities for students to embrace the spirit of the season. We've compiled a list of some holiday events that will occur in Cambridge over the next month, just in case you need an escape from the drudgery of the semester's end.

Sparklefest Kick-off and Tree Lighting

When: Saturday, Nov. 27, 5-6:30 p.m.

Where: Charles Hotel

Cambridge’ s annual Sparklefest will officially welcome the season of joy with the Harvard Square Tree-Lighting Ceremony. The Charles Hotel will have free munchies (courtesy of Henrietta’ s Table), a Santa Claus Jazz Band, and the lighting of Harvard Square Holiday Trees. The lighting itself will occur at 5:30 p.m., but the extended festivities means plenty of time to visit Santa.

You can also bring an unwrapped toy or gift card (after all, 'tis the season of giving) to be donated to the Home for the Little Wanderers.

Crimson Shops Harvard Square

When: Thursday, Dec. 2

Where: In front of the Holyoke Center

Stop by for free hot chocolate, music, and special shopping offers.

Harvard Square Holiday Craft Fair

When: December 4-5, 10-12, 17-23. Within those dates, times are weekdays 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sundays 12-6 p.m.

Where: First Parish Church on Church St. and Mass Ave.

Come prepared to buy original gifts and decorations at this "high energy marketplace with a great soundtrack."

Sparklefest Welcome Kiosk in Harvard Square and Charles Hotel Skating Rink Opening

When: Sunday, Dec. 12, 12-8 p.m.

Where: Charles Hotel and Brattle Square

Skate, visit Santa, and grab holiday treats.

The 101st Annual Christmas Carol Services

When: Sunday, Dec. 12, 5 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 13, 8 p.m.

Where: Memorial Church

Seasonal music performed by Harvard University Choir.

ShopOver Weekend in the Square

When: Friday, Dec. 17 and Saturday, Dec. 18

Where: Harvard Square and surrounding areas

Sleep over in Harvard Square’ s luxury hotels Friday and Saturday night for late night shopping—or come out to the Inn at Harvard in the morning for breakfast with Santa!

Photo by Meng X. He/The Harvard Crimson.