For college students, the saying “winter is coming” tends to really mean, “finals are coming”. With one week left in the semester now is the time to hit the books and do those last few extra credit assignments. 

But it’s also okay to take a break from studying and indulge in the holiday festivities and good cheer.

For those sticking around for a while after the semester comes to an end there are plenty of events and activities that come just once a year to Sonoma County.After Thanksgiving passes neighborhoods begin to slowly pop up with light displays and epic decorations. What some people may not know is that Rohnert Park has it’s own magical winter wonderland. The Weaver’s Winter Wonderland to be exact.

Located at 1190 Cielo Court, the Weaver’s have been transforming their house into a magical display for over 20 years. Every cutout, including the giant castle, is hand carved and painted by Scott Weaver and his family. 

“The Weaver’s Winter Wonderland is breathtaking. There’s so much to look at and there’s even a red sleigh you can take pictures in,” said junior Megan Masek. 

Taking four weeks to completely assemble, the house caught the attention of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight last year and resulted in the Weaver’s taking first place and a grand prize of $50,000. The lights are on from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and will be on display until Dec. 31.With the holiday season also comes theatrical plays and events such as “The Nutcracker”. The Santa Rosa Dance Theater is putting on a production of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker”, and will feature the Sonoma County Philharmonic. 

“Seeing The Nutcracker has always been a holiday tradition for my family, and I can’t wait to hear the Sonoma County Philharmonic play”, said junior Stephanie Light. 

The play will run Dec. 18, 19, and 20 at Spreckels Performing Arts Center. For show times and ticket prices see santarosadancetheater.com.For those that have always wanted to have a movie-moment horse carriage ride the 28-year Railroad Square tradition is back for this holiday season. 

Historic Railroad Square is in the heart of “Old Town” Santa Rosa and free horse carriage rides are taking place every weekend until Christmas. Pick-up is at the depot and hours run 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sat and Sun and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve.