Great Outdoor Events Happening in December: Holiday Edition
Don’t let the cold bring you down this month, with the holidays right around the corner and all the festivities they afford, there is plenty to do in the month of December. Whether you visit your favorite ski resort for some festive celebrations, or you run the local 5K in your favorite ugly sweater, the month of December is not only reserved for overeating and gift receiving, it’s also the time to get outside and have some fun. And to help you do that, here for you today, are some amazing events happening in December:
Ithaca Ice Wars, Ithaca, New York – December 11th–13th
Join the world’s best ice sculptors at this year’s Ice Wars in Ithaca, New York. Situated squarely in the Ithaca Ice bar, this year’s Ice War will include many facets of competition including speed, solo, and team challenges. And while the ice may be cold, the competitions will surely be hot, and for everyone involved a wintry good time will surely be delivered.
The Polar Express, Cuyahoga Scenic Railway, Ohio – November 14th–24th
All aboard the Polar Express! Take a magical journey across the Cuyahoga National Park on the Polar Express to pick up Ole’ Saint Nick. While on this kid-oriented ride across some of the most scenic territory Ohio has to provide, help yourself to some milk and cookies and listen as professional elves read the award-winning Polar Express story aloud and lead some Christmas Carols. Once Santa is on board, have your wish list ready and know that it will be a memory your kids will never forget.
Bozeman Ice Festival, Bozeman, Montana – December 10th–14th
The Bozeman Ice Festival presented by Black Diamond is sure to get all the ice athletes excited about the winter season and all that it has to offer. Featuring clinics, comps, films, and the culture and nightlife of Bozeman, Montana, this event is worth putting on your calendar whether you are an ice climber or not. And with 8 years of traditions building behind it, this event promises to be better than ever.
Santa Runs Tacoma, Tacoma, Washington – December 13th
Don ye gay apparel for this year’s Santa Run in Tacoma, Washington in mid-December. Whether you run the Tiny Tim 1k, Frosty’s 5K, Scrooge’s 10K, or new to this year, the Donner and Blitzen Half Marathon, get ready to earn that extra helping of Grandma’s cherry pie. With decorations and costumes lining the course, this race will set the spirit for some holiday fitness fun.
Heavenly Holidays, Lake Tahoe, California – December 19th–31st
Looking for some good, clean holiday fun? Look no further and check out the snow-capped mountains of Lake Tahoe and Heavenly Ski Resort. Full of holiday treats like ice sculpting, a life-size snow globe, Santa photo-ops, and professional ice rink dancers, all topped off with a New Year’s celebration to bring in the good cheer, you can’t go wrong visiting a place named heavenly this winter.
The Ugly Sweater Run, Across the Country – All Month Long
Raid you grandma’s closet, visit the nearest thrift store, or create your own, whatever you do, adorn your ugly sweater and join in on the nation’s widest reaching ugly sweater run this month. With locations spanning from New York to Sacramento, everyone across the nation has a chance to run. Sign up today, because just like all the good ugly sweaters, these races sell out quick.
12 Days of Aspen, Aspen, Colorado – December 20th–31st
Whether you catch 1 day or all 12, the holidays can be well spent in Aspen, Colorado this year. With a multitude of activities to choose between, from Hanukah lighting celebrations to free gingerbread house construction, the scenic town of Aspen, Colorado (where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano) will treat you right this holiday season. And add in some world-class skiing and Aspen is one place where the fun can happen all winter long.
Christkindlmarket, Chicago, Illinois – November 21st–December 24th
Head on over to the windy city and cut the cold with the annual Christkindlmarket in Chicago, Illinois. Inspired by German traditions and fused with the international flair associated with Chicago, the Christkindlmarket is Chicago’s largest open-air Christmas festivals and host a variety of booths, displays, and festive opportunities to celebrate the holiday season.
Vail Holidaze, Vail, Colorado – December 21st & 31st
Whether you check out the tree lighting ceremony on the 21st or the torchlight parade on the 31st, one thing is for sure, if you visit Vail this holiday season you’ll be sure to have a merry good time. Welcome to all ages, either of these two events has added entertainment to keep you warm all night long. A cappella ensembles, hot cocoa varieties, and of course skiing and après, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Vail.
NYRR Midnight Run, Central Park, New York – December 31st
Start the New Year off on a good foot this upcoming year with the New York Road Runner’s Midnight Run through Central Park. This 4-mile course will send you through the inner-loop of central park and is a great way to trade in some sore legs for the typical headache associated with post New Year’s celebrations. While you’re running, make some resolutions, and remember, 2015 is a whole new year for fun and fitness.
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