KAYLA DRAKE | A&E Editor

Here are five things to do this week on Lindenwood’s campus and around St. Charles.

1. Run a 5K before you stuff yourself with turkey and mashed potatoes.
Thursday, Nov. 23
7:30 a.m.
Chesterfield Mall

Chesterfield’s 18th annual Turkey Trot takes runners on a course around Chesterfield Mall. If you register now, it is $29, and race day it costs $35.

2. Pig out at a Thanksgiving Day buffet.
Thursday, Nov. 23
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tony’s on Main Street

If you can’t go home because of sports, or are an international student wanting to experience this American holiday, head over to Tony’s on Main Street. The buffet is $26 per person, and you can make reservations here.

3. Experience the madness of Black Friday.
Thursday, Nov. 23 – Friday, Nov. 24
5 a.m. – 5 p.m.

After you are stuffed with your Thanksgiving meal and get a nap in, head over to stores to participate in Black Friday. Best Buy, Target and Mid Rivers Mall are the best places to go; even more convenient for you, Best Buy is located within Mid Rivers Mall.

4. Get in the Christmas spirit early on Main Street.
Friday, Nov. 24 – Sunday, Nov. 26
Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sunday noon – 5 p.m.
Main Street, St, Charles

Every holiday character imaginable comes to life in the one-month Christmas Traditions Festival kicking off Nov. 24. Over 80 characters will be costumed, including people such as Santa, Scrooge and Jack Frost. Other events like a parade, tree lighting, carolers, chestnut roasting and a gingerbread contest will be taking place too.

5. Immerse yourself in dazzling lights.
Friday, Nov. 24 – Sunday, Nov. 26
Friday and Saturday 6 – 10 p.m., Sunday 6 – 9 p.m.
Fort Zumwalt Park

Celebration of Lights is a classic light display that has been a tradition in O’Fallon since 1991. The light show lasts until Dec. 30, but this weekend is the opening. Each car is $10, so load up and see some lights with your friends.