The three weeks between Thanksgiving and Winter Break are grueling for most, and it can be difficult to embrace the holiday spirit when the mood is diluted by stressful summatives. 

So, I’ve put together a list of holiday activities to revitalize your attitude and thrust you into a world of holiday cheer.

Enchant® at Nationals Park

Enchant, presented by the Hallmark channel, compacts an interactive light maze, ice skating, a holiday village of tiny shops with artisan vendors, crafts, and holiday delicacies into the Nationals Park stadium. Enchant is a great place to go with friends and family to enjoy all it has to offer. Tickets can be purchased online and the event ends on January 1.  

Bull Run Festival of Lights and Holiday Village

The Festival of Lights run by the Northern Virginia Parks Service is perfect for those who want to experience 2.5 miles of bright lights and holiday cheer from the comfort and warmth of their vehicles. Don’t forget to stop by the Holiday Village and Carnival on your way out! It is complete with bonfires, s’mores, holiday merchandise, and a holiday themed carnival. The Bull Run Festival of Lights and the Holiday Village and Carnival last through January 8, and those who run the festival suggest coming before or after the two weeks surrounding Christmas for a more secluded experience. 

United States Botanical Gardens “Season’s Greenings” holiday exhibit

Longing for a beautiful green oasis to escape our current colorless, dreary environment? The “Season’s Greenings” holiday exhibit at the United States Botanical Garden will bring you holiday cheer while simultaneously transporting you into a vast jungle. The festivities will last until January 2 and include their festive holiday displays, an outdoor gauge train exhibit, delicious winter treats, and botanically-themed gifts available for purchase. 

Downtown Holiday Market

“Season’s Greenings” is just the start of the holiday cheer spread all across D.C. Positioned in front of the National Portrait Gallery, the Downtown Holiday Market is complete with over 70 exhibitors, including artisan shops, six food vendors, festive decorations, and performances from various local musicians. This market is perfect if you are looking for a gift for a friend or loved one, intriguing and delicious holiday food, or simply a way to get out of the house and experience this time of year. 

Support a local cause

One great way to find joy if you are struggling this season is by supporting those in need. While this suggestion may seem redundant, many often forget that giving is one of the best ways to decrease feelings of sadness and lighten your mood. Some considerable local causes include volunteering at the Falls Church Homeless Shelter or donating clothing and household items in good condition to Goodwill or other organizations. There are also numerous clubs to join at Meridian such as the Environmental Club, GIVE Day, and International Club that support important issues that can help you get involved.