This Thanksgiving, CSU students, faculty, and staff may find themselves spending the holiday on campus, away from friends and family. While spending Thanksgiving away from home may not be traditional, there are many activities and events in and around Columbus that students can participate in to occupy their time.

Market Days and Farmers Market

     Thanksgiving is traditionally marked by sharing a tasty meal with friends and family. While students, faculty, and staff members staying on campus may not be able to connect with their loved ones, they can still find unique ways to enjoy delicious meals and organic ingredients.  

       Students, faculty, and staff can visit the final month of Uptown Columbus’ annual local farmer’s market, Market Days, to buy organic foods from local businesses. The market is open every Saturday until Nov. 25, beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at noon. 

       The Russell County Farmers Market is another option for those interested in purchasing organic and locally produced foods around the Columbus area. The market is held in the Garrett-Harrison Stadium in Phenix City, Alabama, and takes place on Thursdays from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon. The market is the perfect opportunity for those interested in taking a quick trip during the break. 

Shows, Musicals, and More

      Those interested in the performing arts can also visit the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts to watch entertaining and tear-jerking performances of beloved plays and musicals.  

    During Thanksgiving break, the RiverCenter will put on renditions of “A Magical Cirque Christmas” on Nov. 19 and “Anastasia” on Nov. 29 and 30. Tickets are available on the RiverCenter’s website. Students, faculty, and staff can experience beautiful live performances as they watch the plays come to life. 

Getting into the Christmas spirit

      Students, faculty, and staff can also utilize their Thanksgiving away from home to do some early Christmas shopping. Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts will be an opportunity for students to purchase gifts for a discounted price. Purchasing gifts while spending the holiday on campus is a great way to ensure that all gifts are purchased before stores begin filling up during the Christmas season.

       Those seeking to get into the Christmas spirit as December approaches can also make a visit to Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights located in Pine Mountain. Those spending Thanksgiving away from home can view fantastic displays of lights as they drive through “one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays.” 

     The light display will begin on Nov. 18 and continue through Jan. 2, 2023. This event is perfect for anyone who will be staying on campus during the break and is interested in taking a short day-trip to occupy their time.