Happy almost spring break, Penn State! Many students have already started packing for home or a nice (hopefully warm) travel destination. However, you don’t need to travel to have some fun with your time off.

If you are like me and planning to spend a carefree week in State College, then have no fear. From enjoying a concert at the Bryce Jordan Center to taking a stroll through the Arboretum, there’s plenty to do in Happy Valley over spring break.

Check out the list below for some events in the area to help plan out your State College staycation.

‘Waitress: The Musical’ — Thursday, March 3

Start off your spring break early with a touch of Broadway! “Waitress” will make a stop at Penn State for a one-night-only performance at 7:30 p.m. at Eisenhower Auditorium. Student tickets are available for as low as $41. Plus, the show has some Penn State representation within its crew.

Winter Jam 2022 — March 4

Winter Jam is returning to the Bryce Jordan Center on March 4, 2022, with performances from artists like Skillet, Tauren Wells, KB, Colton Dixon, and more. Admission is just $10 at the door, and tickets aren’t required.

Naturally Imprinted Mugs Class — March 4 & 11

Get crafty this spring break! The Rivet at Discovery Space on North Atherton Street will host a pottery class from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, March 4, and Friday, March 11. The lessons will focus on using textures and shapes from the good ole’ outdoors.

The class will take place in two sessions to allow for creation of the mugs and glazing. All materials will be provided, but you are more than welcome to bring your own nature finds to give it a personal touch.

Each class requires a $55 signup fee. Registration is available online.

Spring Bird Academy — Monday, March 7

If you haven’t visited the Arboretum yet, now is your chance! It will host its annual Bird Academy from 10 a.m. to noon in the Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden. The Arboretum invites guests to drop in during those hours to learn more about the birds that call Centre County home. The event is free, and no registration is required.

Tuesday Defrost — Tuesday, March 8

Tuesday Defrost is held every week at 3 Dots Downtown from 5 to 7 p.m. According to its website, Tuesday Defrost is a “weekly celebration of the smorgasbord of music, community, art, and culture of Centre County.” This includes open mic opportunities, a live DJ and dance party, “mocktails,” and wine.

Penn State Men’s Lacrosse vs. Cornell — Saturday, March 12

Penn State men’s lacrosse faces Cornell on Saturday at noon at Panzer Stadium. The team currently sits at 2-3 overall but recently earned a statement win over No. 5 Yale.

Students are admitted for free and, if it’s a nice day out, Panzer is a beautiful place to be during the early spring.

Take A Moment To Relax — Any Day

Listen, being a student isn’t easy. You’ve earned this break. Take some time for yourself. Read a book, take a nap, eat a whole pizza…whatever makes you happy! For many of us, this is either our first “normal” spring break in a while or our first college spring break ever. Enjoy it.