Your Christmas spirit checklist

In Huntsville, there are more ways to max out the Clausometer than singing loudly for all to hear.

Why it matters: Schools are out, family's in town, and that means looking for things to do.

• So here's a (short) list of Rocket City highlights to help you make the most of the rest of the season.

🪐 Galaxy of Lights: The 30th anniversary edition is one to behold. It runs through New Year's Eve at Huntsville Botanical Garden.

• Check the calendar for full details, including whether it's a walking or driving night.

🎄 Tinsel Trail: The walk-through, always-open Tinsel Trail at Big Spring Park features hundreds of trees all decorated to a theme by different people and organizations.

• It's open through New Year's Eve too, and is a good opportunity to get some steps in after all those holiday sweets.

⛸️ Skating in the Park: Just next door is Huntsville Museum of Art's Skating in the Park, on its 14th year hosting an outdoor ice rink open through Jan. 4.

• Check the Instagram to see if the weather is cooperating and the website for holiday hours or special events.

🛶 Christmas on the River: Through New Year's Eve, Ditto Landing hosts Christmas Card Lane, a walk along the river with oversized Christmas cards decorated by community organizations.

• Check out the website to see what's on offer, including musical performances, a model train display or fireworks shows.

🏟️ The Trash Pandas Christmas: At Toyota Field, the Rocket City Trash Pandas also host a light show through Dec. 28.

• Kids 12 and under are free. Check out walk-through 3D displays and an interactive dance floor.

Go deeper: Galaxy of Lights, Huntsville's brightest tradition, turns 30.