The Claw

Being stuck in Santa Cruz over winter break can seem a lot like being in a cabin during an avalanche. For exciting winter plans you need not look any further than here! Santa Cruz can be the quick remedy for your boredom. There are many fun and exciting events occurring locally this winter break.

The much anticipated Santa Cruz Holiday Lights Train is back yet again at Roaring Camp! Riding on the train is a blast from the past. Each railroad car is adorned with countless bright and colorful lights. Throughout the journey passengers lend their voices to merry holiday carols and sip warm spiced cider as musical entertainment awakens their holiday spirit. The train ride even get a special visit from Santa Claus! Bring the family for a fun and festive time. The Holiday Lights Train begins December 19 and ends December 23. Trains arrive at the boardwalk at 5:00, 5:30, and 6:00 P.M.

Another wonderful Santa Cruz tradition is back once again. The dramatic production of The Nutcracker is back for it’s twelfth anniversary. This classic holiday event stars the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Alumna, Houston Ballet principal dancer Melody Mennite, and the Santa Cruz Ballet Theatre Orchestra. Come one, come all, to see the grand retelling of a classic holiday story! The production will be at the Civic Auditorium in Downtown Santa Cruz December 19th to the 21st

If you should feel like seeing one last new movie starring Robin Williams, you’re in luck this december! Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb will be premiering on December 19th. Join Larry Daley, the night guard portrayed by Ben Stiller as he travels far and wide across the globe in a journey that will unite old-favorites and new characters alike. Be a part of a quest spanning the globe to save the magic before it is gone forever in the last instalment of the Night of at Museum franchise.

Ever cut down your own christmas tree? If you have that urge to discover the perfect tree head down to Crest Ranch, located at 12200 Empire Grade, Bonny Doon. Crest Ranch is a choose-and-cut christmas tree farm and an annual tradition for many families. Over fifty acres of Christmas trees and twenty different varieties are available for your tree hunting fancy. The farm also has a “ viewpoint,” allowing all who visit to gaze upon the beautiful landscape of seven different counties. There is also a lunch area for the wearied tree hunter and snacks are available for purchase on weekends.

If you should find yourself wanting to go bowling over the holidays head down to the Boardwalk Bowl. Bring a canned food item in hand and you will get a game for free as part of the Strike Out Hunger campaign. Strike Out Hunger will last from November 1st to December 31st. Boardwalk Bowl League players who bring in three cans of food during league playing times will receive three free bowling passes for future visits. All donations to the Boardwalk Bowl will be received by the Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County to further aid in feeding local families. Last year the Boardwalk Bowl raised over 5,800 cans, approximately three tons of food.

There are countless more events to enjoy this holiday season. The holidays are a time of unity and a season of giving. Enjoy the time spent with family and friends and cherish the memories made during this remarkable time of the year.

By: Michael Eckles