Ah, the holidays. So much to do and never quite enough time to do them.
That’s why we’re bringing you our “Memories to Make” checklist for the holiday season. Every week, we’ll offer ideas for both new and classic holiday activities, whether festive fun out in the community or cozy moments to enjoy at home.
No, this isn’t a to-do list. Think of it as a reminder to savor the season. Simply pick a favorite activity or two on the list to enjoy this week with family or friends, whether it’s with those you’ve known all your life or someone you just met. So turn on the holiday cheer and let’s make some memories:
- Gather together and share one thing you’re thankful for. Whoever you find yourself with on Thanksgiving, take a moment to go around and have each person express gratitude for one thing in the past year. If you want to get creative, hand out paper and markers or coloring crayons and ask everyone to draw what they’re thankful for.
- Turn off the TV and head outside for a quick game of football. Just have fun with it. Divide teams in a fun way (guys against girls, one family against the other?) and simplify rules to include as many people as possible.
- Check out the one-of-a-kind decorated trees at the Festival of Trees. Enjoy holiday cookies and music at Community Day 1-4 p.m. today, admission by donation. Other events include the Joanne Shears Holiday Tea & Vintage Style Show ($18/person), 10 a.m. Friday, and Gala Dinner, Auction & Dance ($100/person), 6 p.m. Saturday. Tickets are available at (509) 751-4556; all events are held at the Nez Perce County Fairgrounds at 1229 Burrell Ave., Lewiston.
- Watch a family classic on TV. Local PBS stations are airing “Anne of Green Gables” and “Pollyanna” today and tomorrow. Check local listings for details.
- Eat a leftover turkey sandwich. If there’s one thing better than a turkey dinner, it’s the sandwich you get to eat the next day. Go classic or try one of these flavor combos: cream cheese and bacon, apple slices and brie, or grilled with cheddar cheese.
- Put up some holiday decorations. Whether you’re ready to trim the tree or just put out a few simple decorations, get your place looking festive -- and don’t forget to break out your favorite Christmas music while you do.
- Make plans to see the Nutcracker. The classic holiday ballet will be performed by the Spokane Symphony and State Street Ballet Dec. 1-4 at Martin Woldson Theatre at The Fox in Spokane. Cost is $12.50-$30/children and $25-$75/adults; purchase tickets at ticketswest.com. The Eugene Ballet will also perform the show 3 p.m. Dec. 11 at Beasley Coliseum in Pullman. Cost is $16-$37/person; purchase tickets at ticketswest.com or by calling Festival Dance at (208) 883-3267.
- Watch the Hells Canyon Lighted Boat Parade. The parade starts at 4 p.m. Sunday and runs along both sides of the Snake River between Swallows Nest Boat Launch in Clarkston and the Interstate bridge. Interested in participating in the parade? Get info at www.hellscanyonboatclub.org.
