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Things to do over winter break

Winter break is here, marking the end of the fall semester. Most students leave Boulder to visit family during the break, giving them time to rest and reconnect before the start of the spring semester. This is a valuable time for families to show support for their students, celebrate holiday traditions and have fun.Ìý

Here are a few ideas for how you and your student can spend your time over winter break.Ìý

Take time to rest and relaxÌý

Winter break offers a wonderful time for your student to rest from the rigor of academics. Encourage them to take time to relax by sleeping in, taking naps or going to bed early. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep each night to stay healthy and focused. Winter break is a great time to reset their sleep schedule.Ìý


Celebrate with family and friendsÌý

The holiday season often means visiting with family and friends to celebrate. You can continue family traditions or make new ones while your student is home. Being away from home at college can feel lonely. Spend time over break reconnecting with your student. Plan fun activities like a game night, baking cookies, attending a local holiday event or hosting a special dinner.Ìý


Prepare for the spring semesterÌý

While winter break shouldn’t focus solely on school, it does give students a chance to prepare for the spring semester. They can stock up on supplies for school, like snacks, winter gear, toiletries and other essentials. Also, students can take time to work on their resumes or online profiles to prepare for their job or internship search. It may feel easier to get these tasks accomplished while they don’t have to focus on academics.Ìý


Explore Boulder and beyondÌý

If your student is staying in Boulder or your family plans to visit Boulder over the break, here are a few ideas to check out.Ìý

Go skiing
Colorado is known for its outstanding ski resorts. You can plan a day trip from Boulder toÌý or check out one of the otherÌý.

Go out to dinner
Boulder has many top-notch restaurants and breweries. You can plan a fancy night out at aÌýÌýor keep it low-key at one of Boulder’sÌýÌý´Ç±è³Ù¾±´Ç²Ô²õ.

Visit local museums
Boulder has several museums, including theÌýCU Museum of Natural History. Check out other local museums like theÌý,ÌýÌý´Ç°ùÌý.

Visit Pearl Street
Pearl Street sits in the heart of Boulder, just outside campus and offers a wide range of entertainment, dining and shopping options. Check out theÌýÌýevents calendar for entertainment ideas.

See holiday lights
Enjoy aÌýÌýthrough Downtown Boulder and the Civic Area. The City of Boulder Parks and Recreation Department and Downtown Boulder pair up to build a creative and enchanting lights display perfect for the whole family.

Cheer on the Buffs
Show your school spirit by cheering on the CU Buffs basketball teams. The men’s and women’s teams have a few home games over break. Check out theÌý ²¹²Ô»åÌý.


Make the most of winter break

After a busy semester, winter break gives students and families much-needed time off. Sometimes, simple things like spending time with family, getting a head start on planning for the spring semester or just resting can enhance your student’s quality of life and help them reconnect.