As winter break approaches, the University campus becomes quieter as students head home. However, Champaign-Urbana doesn’t slow down. For students staying in town, there are lots of fun activities to enjoy. From Saturday mornings at the Winter Farmers Market to string performances at the Orpheum, these hidden gems in the C-U appeal to a wide range of interests. Below are some options that students, residents and visitors can fill their winter days with.

C-U Winter Farmers Market

For those who enjoy shopping, the C-U Winter Farmers Market is the perfect Saturday morning tradition. Every Saturday — except Dec. 27 — from 8 a.m. to noon, Lincoln Square Mall has more than 40 vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts and seasonal treats. This makes the market a steady option for both groceries and gifts during break.

Illini basketball games

Winter break is the prime time for Illini basketball at State Farm Center. For sports fans staying in town, the team plays two home games over break — Dec. 29 and Jan. 8 — giving students and local residents chances to watch the Big Ten competition. Tickets are available online, and each game offers a lively atmosphere.

Allerton glow

A little further from C-U — about a 30-minute drive — Allerton Park is hosting its annual Holiday Glow each night from Dec. 5-31 (except Dec. 24-25). This event includes music, holiday markets inside the mansion gardens lined up with festive light displays. Food trucks will be available Dec. 5-6, Dec. 11-13 and Dec. 18-23.  Admission is $10 per vehicle.

Candlelight performances

The Orpheum in Champaign takes on a different kind of glow during winter break, lit not by stage lights but by candles. String performers from violinists to cellists will bring familiar music to life in an intimate setting. On Dec. 20, the theater will host “The Best of Hans Zimmer” at 6:30 p.m., followed by “Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay” at 8:45 p.m. On Dec. 26, it will host “Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings” with two showtimes at 6:30 p.m. and 8:45 p.m. Each performance will last about 60 minutes.

Ice skating

The University of Illinois Ice Arena will keep its doors open for winter break for those who enjoy ice skating. Admission is $6 for non-students, and children under 4 skate for free. During public skate events, admission is $2. Public skate is 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 22-23 and Dec. 29-30, 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Dec. 17, Dec. 19, Jan. 7 and Jan. 9, and 1:30-4 p.m. on Dec. 20-21, Dec. 27-28, Jan. 3-4 and Jan. 10-11. Whether you want to blow off some steam after finals or get some exercise with friends, ice skating is a great way to have fun over winter break.

There is a wide variety of activities to do in C-U during winter break. Whether you are a sports fan cheering on Illini basketball or someone who enjoys shopping at markets, the area offers plenty of hidden gems. These events keep the holiday season lively from start to finish.

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