Finals week is coming up soon, and the semester is finally coming to an end. So here are some holiday-themed events that students and the public can look forward to as a way to relax and take a break from the stress of this school year:
Planetarium Holiday Show
Watch a holiday show here on campus at the Downing Planetarium, located south of Barstow Avenue and next to the Science II Building, as it shows a Season of Light for students and the public to watch at 6 p.m. on Dec. 13 and 2 and 3 p.m. on Dec. 14. The family-oriented program explores the winter holiday traditions and spans different cultures from around the world, emphasizing the meaning of the winter solstice and possible explanations for the star of Bethlehem. Tickets are available for purchase at $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $3 for students with ID and children.
Christmas Laser Show
The River Park Shopping Center is hosting its very first Christmas Laser Show for shoppers and locals this year. Bring friends and family on a Friday or Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. on Dec. 13, Dec. 14, Dec. 20 and Dec. 21, and claim your own spot to be entertained for the night. The laser show will be located in between Victoria’s Secret and the White House Black Market.Â
Christmas Tree Lane
Two nights a year there are ‘walk-only’ nights at Christmas Tree Lane reserved for attendees who want to enjoy the light display and holiday cheer as an infamous attraction. Each December, the one-way street on North Van Ness Boulevard near Fig Garden brings a variety of art, decorations and crowds as Christmas nears. One walking night has already passed, and the second night is on Dec. 11. All other dates, attendees will have to drive through the lane to enjoy the holiday lights. The lane is open for visitors 6 to 10 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 6 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Zoo Lights
The Fresno Chaffee Zoo holds its annual event as the zoo transforms from animal exhibits to a winter wonderland that visitors can explore in new ways during the holiday season. With miles of Christmas lights, live entertainment, beverages and free photos with Santa Claus, the event is a must see. Attendees can go to the zoo from Dec. 13 to Dec. 23 and Dec. 26 to Dec. 30. Tickets for members are $8 for adults, $6 for children; and for non-members, $10 for adults and $7 for children.Â
World’s Fair Holiday Village Exhibit
The Henry Madden Library’s (HML) Special Collections Resource Center will have a one-of-a-kind miniature World’s Fair Holiday Village that students can visit and see designs of global communities representing the holiday spirit throughout the years. The Village will be on display until Dec. 20. Special Collections can be located in the HML at the south wing of the fourth floor. Hours to visit the exhibit will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday.