With finals week in hot pursuit of claiming my sanity, visions of returning home to good old Cleveland, Ohio are dancing around in my head. Though notoriously proclaimed as,"The Mistake on the Lake," I, and any Clevelander for that matter, will hastily disagree. Unbeknownst to many, Cleveland is a diamond in the rough, overflowing with history, art, restaurants, and a growing night life scene. So when it comes to Christmas, this city has plenty to offer to fulfill your every holiday desire. With events showcased all over the area throughout the month of December, it will be difficult to catch the winter blues this season.

1. Winterfest (Lighting of the Square)

A downtown Cleveland tradition, Winterfest, originally dubbed "The Lighting of the Square," consists of holiday music, twinkling lights, fireworks, and activities for all ages to kick off the Christmas season. Taking place along Public Square, East Fourth Street, and Playhouse Square, thousands of Clevelanders swarm to this event yearly in hopes of taking part in the festivities. Though Winterfest has unfortunately already passed this year, make note of this occasion for the future, because it's definitely a family favorite!

2. Cleveland Botanical Garden's Glow Holiday Display

Transforming the notorious Botanical Gardens, The Glow holiday display this year will debut an interactive model train, gingerbread house making, and caroling for all. Along with these activities, guests are invited to explore the beautiful lights strung throughout the gardens. Reasonably priced with indoor and outdoor activities, The Glow is a Cleveland winter time must see.

3. December Days at The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

From Dec. 26 until Dec. 31, The Cleveland Zoo grants the opportunity of live music, crafts, and pictures with Santa while providing access to all their indoor animal exhibits. Grab your hat and mittens to enjoy a day of fun with some wild creatures for a minimal price!

4. Visit the Christmas Story House

Complete with the leg lamp displayed in the window, Ralphie's house from the iconic movie, "The Christmas Story," is open for tours year round! Filmed in Cleveland, this movie is a city favorite, and every Clevelander should visit the house at least once in their lifetime. After seeing the house, walk on across the street to experience "The Christmas Story" museum to fulfill all your inquiries behind the making of the movie.

5. Toboggan Chutes at the Metroparks

Now open until Spring, The Cleveland Metroparks famous toboggan chutes are a thrilling way to make the most of the bitter Ohio weather. For an affordable price, groups of any size can take delight in this exciting winter activity. With speeds up to 50 miles per hour, what's not to love about this radical spin on a one-horse open sleigh?

6. Winter Waterland at the Cleveland Aquarium

With an underwater sea approach to the holiday season, the Cleveland Aquarium is transformed into a "Winter Waterland" this year. Complete with decorations, an ice palace, and Santa's elves, kids can explore the mysteries of the ocean while spreading some Christmas cheer. The biggest attraction however, is "Scuba Santa," who swims through the shark tank and reads Christmas stories to the attendees!

7. Great Lakes Theater Production of "A Christmas Carol"

Another noted Cleveland tradition, "A Christmas Carol" is performed annually by the wonderful Great Lakes Theater Production. All ages welcome, so come out to Playhouse Square to bask in the entertainment of a Christmas classic.

8. Life Sized Candy Land Display

Not more than a half hour drive from downtown, the Penitentiary Glen Nature Center has transformed its facilities into a giant interactive game of the childhood favorite, Candy Land. To enhance the Christmas experience further, this year the nature center is supplying different types of sweets found in nature as you travel through the various seasons. All this and more, grab the family or a significant other to enjoy a day of free childish amusement!

9. The Rink at Wade Oval

Located at University Circle, every year, The Rink at Wade Oval kindly provides ice skating for an extremely low price! Friends and family can appreciate the winter season by taking advantage of this outdoor sport. With other activities such as "Skate with Santa" and "Music at the Rink" provided weekly, The Rink is a great avenue for bonding and fun this holiday season.

Happy Holidays from Cleveland, Ohio!