With an entire month approaching without classes, most students are giddy with thoughts of traveling, saving money, or just resting. Now, whatever plans (or lack thereof) you’re gleefully waiting for, you might still struggle to fill that time before hitting the books again.

For students staying in Madison over the break, some examples of possible activities could include spectator or interactive sporting, entertainment events or volunteer opportunities.

Visit a holiday lights display. Besides driving around town to admire the holiday decorations, perhaps explore a more specific display at Olin Park, Henry Vilas Zoo, or even the popular holiday demonstration off Gammon Road in West Madison. These features will enchant both children and adults.

Ride The Polar Express train in Middleton. The hour-long roundtrip features acts out the movie, from the golden tickets to the silver sleigh bells. Children are welcome and participants can wear their pajamas, just like the movie.

Attend one of Madison Ballet’s performances of “The Nutcracker.” If you haven’t seen the classic yet or want to relive the experience, the production will be at various times on Dec. 17, 18, 23, 24 and 26 at The Overture Center.

Volunteer at a local assisted living home. Senior homes often need volunteers – especially around the holiday season – to participate in or lead activities with the residents. If you play an instrument, enjoy games, or want to spread some holiday cheer, see what your local homes could use help with. If you might be spending the holidays alone, volunteering at a senior home could be a more rewarding alternative.

Trek to Mount Horeb’s Tyrol Basin for the ski slopes or the Friday night rail jam events that will continue through December and January.

Attend a local sporting event. Although no Wolf Pack games will publicly take place this winter break, the Madison Capitols and Badgers basketball teams will still have home games.

Visit one of Madison’s ice skating rinks. Bring your own skates to The Edgewater’s outdoor rink, or check out the indoors Hartmeyer Ice Arena on the east side of Madison or Madison Ice Arena on the west side.

Join the Madison Area Snowshoe Scurry and Winter Duathlon events. The two races over winter break will be Jan. 8 at Pleasant View Golf Course, Middleton, and Jan. 15 in Walking Iron County Park, Mazomanie. Register online at http://snowshoewi.com/madison-area-races.html or sign up to volunteer at the events.

For theater enthusiasts, consider purchasing tickets for the Ball Drop Blitz 3 on Dec. 31 at the Bartell Theatre in Madison. See the results of the 24-hour theatre challenge, which has participants create and produce short plays in less than a day, based off of selected variables.

While these suggestions may highlight events of general interests, the city of Madison provides a wide array of activities for everyone, even those with esoteric interests. With a little bit of looking, it should be no trouble to get yourself through the winter break.