Participating in our local events is something that allows people to really embrace the holiday season with a smile on their face. This holiday though, we challenge you to also look into what you can do to give back to the community. They don’t call it the season of giving for nothing!
Remember that the holiday season can be especially hard for many people in our community. The easiest way to make their spirits brighter is by spending your time volunteering in some of Chico’s Non-Profits. Donating your time will help those in our community that are less fortunate, whether you volunteer to serve them a holiday meal, or even sign up to help for a few days a week.
We have three amazing non-profits that strive to improve the lives of local Chico residents:
If you are looking for a more regular volunteer position and want to spend your time giving back to those around you, look into these non-profits:
One of the best parts of the holiday season is all the town events that go on. Chico is a special place that holds some pretty amazing holiday traditions, check them out!
Since 1978 this event has kicked off the local Christmas season. From seeing Santa Claus, to on-street events, strolling carolers, and store front performances, this time of year is truly about joy. Downtown Chico really goes all out when kicking off the holiday season. This year they are kicking it off on November 19th from 4-8pm. Check out the DCBA event page for a list of some of the on-street highlights.
According to the DCBA event page, Chestnut the Downtown Elf will arrive during the Christmas Preview and begin a month-long journey throughout downtown (November 20th-December 20th). Each night he will come to life and move to a new location. You are invited to find Chestnut and notify the store or restaurant employee to be entered to win one of three grand prize baskets collected by Chestnut at each of his resting stops. For more information on the rules of this fun game, visit the DCBA event page dedicated to Elf on the Shelf among other holiday events.
This a 5k run/walk event that happens at One Mile Recreation Area in Bidwell Park on the 23rd of November (Thanksgiving)! This race draws everyone out of their homes early on Thanksgiving morning to support the Jesus Center. It also gives everyone a great reason to have another slice of pie. You can contribute by helping fundraise, sponsor, or registering to be part of the event!
Can it really be the Christmas season if you don’t see The Nutcracker? Well don’t worry, if you consider seeing the nutcracker a must during the holidays, go no further. This year you can spend Thursday November 30th – Saturday December 2nd @ 7:30pm and Saturday December 2nd – Sunday December 3rd @ 2pm watching the Chico Community Ballet perform A Very Chico Nutcracker at Laxson Auditorium.
This year’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be on the first of December from 6pm-8pm. The city plaza will have more than 2,000 LED lights. You will get to experience performances by Children’s Choir of Chico and Sounds of the Valley Women’s Chorus as well as a visit from Santa and the Mayor of Chico.
Take a journey to the North Pole this Christmas in an original production Believe, inspired by The Polar Express. This is a show has everything from fun music to amazing dance moves, something that the whole family can enjoy. Bring back the magic of the season by seeing this amazing show. Tickets are already on sell and they are going fast. Believe is only showing 5 times between December 15th – 17th so find a time and date that works for you and buy your tickets now!
In case you haven’t figured it out already, there are so many things to do when living in Chico apartments during the holiday season. Find whatever fits you best and go out and enjoy the season with the community you live in!
Check out our blog for awesome ways to enjoy living in Chico all year long!
If you are traveling out of town for the holidays, and will be missing these awesome events/traditions, you may want to think about investing in Renter's Insurance before you leave. This will protect you and your assets from potential theft (Remember Home Alone!?) Be sure to lock up your belongings safely and park your car where it can't be vandalized. Best of luck and safe travels!