5 WAYS TO FILL YOUR WEEKEND

It’s Christmas in a few days. While you might be getting bent out of shape over shopping, make sure to find some time to recharge. Here are a few things to consider this weekend:

1Take your family out for a relaxing outdoor skate Lace up your skates and head downtown to the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink at Nutrien Plaza. The rink is officially open for the season, and with temperatures really not that cold for December, this is prime skating weather. Enjoy the outdoor rink now, because spring is just around the corner.

2Be part of the Fireside Singers’ holiday tradition One of the year’s must-do events is the Saskatoon Fireside Singers performing their Christmas Memories for the 46th year, on Friday and Saturday nights. The long run says everything about how talented this group is. The performance, along with special guest Thomas Yu, begins at 7:30 p.m., both evenings, at TCU Place. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the legend.

3Have a jazzy Christmas evening at The Bassment Another place to hear great Christmas music is The Bassment on Saturday night. Maurice Drouin’s Jazzy Christmas will get everyone in the holiday spirit. Grant Currie, Barrie Redford and a bunch of other talented musicians will help the evening’s festivities move along. Everything gets underway at The Bassment, 202 4th Ave. N., at 8 p.m.

4Take a stroll along the Meewasin Valley paths Here’s something that won’t cost a nickel: take advantage of the Meewasin Valley paths. It’s not often you can stroll along the river in December and not be knee-deep in snow and facing a blistering north wind. Walk across the train bridge; stop and take a minute to marvel at this great city. Then go home, or stop somewhere, for a hot (or cold) drink to warm your insides.

5Enjoy a self-guided tour of local Christmas lights Here’s an idea that many people make a family holiday tradition. Pack up the car — with kids if you have any — and drive around the city to look at all the Christmas lights people have on display in their yards and businesses. This is a great way to enjoy some family time and to bask in the magic of the season.