1. Light Shows 

Light shows have been a winter fun staple for decades on Long Island. Get your family and friends packed into a car or two and head down to one of the light shows being displayed in Suffolk County all December long. The Jones Beach Magic of Lights Drive-Thru Show at Jones Beach State Park is running until Dec. 30, and the Girl Scouts Of Suffolk County are running their 19th annual light show at Smith Point County Park until the end of the month. At only $22 a car, this is a great group activity to get you in the holiday spirit. 

2. Gingerbread Houses

Popularized in Germany during the early 1800s, gingerbread houses have been a part of many families’ holiday traditions for centuries. These candy-coated houses are especially fun for children, people who like to bake, and perhaps even a local architect, but equally delicious for all. Just because it is tradition does not mean you can’t put a twist on an old classic. Don’t be afraid to break away from mold: maybe a gingerbread skyscraper or even a gingerbread CVS could be your big masterpiece this year. Let the holiday spirit take over and make something creative this holiday season. 

3. Holiday Trees

From Fir to Pine, Cedar or Spruce, it would not be the winter season without holiday trees. Catching a tree lighting or cutting down one of your own with loved ones to decorate at home could be a way to spend a weekend this December. 

Starting as a pagan worship, this tradition survived the conversion to Christianity across Europe, making it a fun tradition with a rich history. 

Fun Fact: Many families add aspirin to their Christmas tree water to keep the tree healthy. However, there is actually no evidence to support this.

4. Have a Movie Night

It’s getting cold outside. In lieu of freezing, stay in the warm house, grab a hot cocoa and watch some festive movies with family and friends. Grab your snacks, crank up the heater, and get cozy because there are many great options. Don’t know where to start? If you’re looking for some recommendations, go to our media critic Ben Campo’s list of the top five Christmas movies to watch.

5. Winter Sports

Suffolk’s Men’s and Women’s Basketball team’s winter seasons have begun. Catch the last game of the semester on Dec. 17 at Rockland Community College. If fans aren’t able to make it, there’s no need to worry: the Suffolk Sharks season will continue into next semester, with game dates on Jan. 14, 15 and 17. Come out and support our Sharks, as these games are sure to be action-packed and exciting.