As the first semester of the school year comes to a close with dead week and final exams, students might be looking ahead to winter break plans. Even as campus begins to wind down after Dec. 13, Johnson City and surrounding areas will still be booming with activities that students can enjoy during the holiday season.
One of the activities is Electric 94.9’s Acoustic Christmas on Dec. 17. The lineup features artists such as Charlie Puth, Shaed, AJ Mitchell and Public, who will be performing at 7 p.m. at Freedom Hall Civic Center. Tickets are still available starting at $30.
Another musical opportunity would be Down Home Christmas Show Dec. 22 at 7 p.m.
Students can also enjoy some holiday shows at theaters around the area. The Johnson City Community Theatre has showings of “A Christmas Carol” until Dec. 22, and the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre’s “1940s USO Christmas Show” through Dec. 15.
For outdoor adventure, there are multiple ski resorts within 50 miles of campus. These resorts include Beech Mountain Resort, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort. In addition to skiing, these spots offer a range of other activities like ice skating, tubing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.
Tri-Cities residents are also invited to Roan Mountain State Park on Dec. 14 at 8 p.m. to a free, winter star party where guests can meet Park Ranger Philip Hylen to focus on Orion and the Christmas Star.
If you prefer the warmth of indoors, there are still things for you to enjoy over the break. In Asheville, North Carolina, you can check out the holiday decorations at the 175,000 square foot Biltmore Estate, which will be up until Jan. 5.
Students can give virtual reality a try at Vision Quest in Johnson City, a VR arcade with 24 gaming experiences such as multiplayer party games and escape room simulations.
One way to spend break without breaking the bank is to volunteer. Places like the Washington County-Johnson City Animal Shelter welcome volunteers to serve in many capacities. As listed on their website, these roles vary from dog walker, to adoption greeter to cat photographer. Other organizations like the Humane Society of Washington County and Good Samaritan Ministries can use help during the winter months.
