With Christmas break approaching at a rapid rate, many students will be faced with boredom as they stay at home during break. However, this does not have to be the reality. In fact, many exciting events are taking place soon in time for the Christmas break.

While this event is not occurring during Christmas break, it is still a typical tradition many families participate in. The Lonestar Ballet presents “the Nutcracker” at the Amarillo Civic Center. This ballet is an active performance taking place every single day until Dec. 10. Tickets range for $13 to $48 depending on the location of the seats. Performances vary from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets can be purchased from the Amarillo Civic Center website for the remaining performances.

Alongside “the Nutcracker,” another performance is occurring in the area except this performance is a musical. The musical is called “Plaid Tidings” and is showing at Amarillo Little Theatre on Dec. 7 and Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 8, 9, 15, and 16 at 8:00 p.m. with performances also occurring on Dec. 10 and Dec. 17 at 2:30 p.m. This musical includes many classic Christmas songs that hold a special place in the heart of many. Ticket prices vary and can be purchased online at the ALT website or from the ALT box office.

Tickets to performances can be pricey, so often times people prefer affordable entertainment. The 806 coffee and lounge provides a calm environment for customers who can enjoy a wide range of different beverages and food accompanied with live music. This month, Steve Douthit Music, a country/blues singer and songwriter will perform at the 806 Dec. 9. Later in the week on Dec. 11, Pullman Standard, a rock/alternative pop band will perform at the 806 as well.

The 806 is affordable, but sometimes teenagers would rather spend their time participating in a fun, yet free activity. Christmas in the Gardens, an event hosted by the Amarillo Botanical Garden, provides this fun, yet free activity. Until Dec. 23, the garden will be open to the public on Thursday-Sunday from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Participants can walk around the garden illuminated with Christmas lights and even listen to live music performance. While the garden is free to explore, there are additional expenses for pictures with Santa Claus, a donation to the Amarillo Botanical Garden, or the purchase of Palace coffee and unique glasses that alter the presence of lights to shapes such as snowflakes or snowmen. The Amarillo Botanical Garden is located near the Discovery Center, close to the BSA hospital.

These events will not only help students overcome boredom during the Christmas break, but they will also make the break worthwhile and special this Christmas season.