Chill out

For approximately two months after that autumn chill arrives (circa right now), the cold weather is real charming. You’re able to savor the snuggliness of your wool sweater rather than pay attention to how horrendously itchy it is; you look forward to the warmth of your car’s heater rather than begrudge the 10 minutes it takes to start working; you barely miss tomato season. (OK, maybe that’s a lie.) Point is: it’s prime cold-weather-enjoyment time right now. Here are a few activities around the city conducive to being the coziest cozy person out there:

As of November 4, the Downtown Sacramento Ice Rink is officially back and will be open through January 16. If you’re not exactly Kristi Yamaguchi on the blades, you can sign up for half-hour classes that take place on December 4, 11 and 18, as well as January 1. Otherwise, general admission is $6-$12 and it includes skate rental. The rink is open from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays. Visit http://godowntownsac.com for more information.

While he’s best known as a very funny writer of essays, David Sedaris once took a now-famous turn as Crumpet the elf at Macy’s. There are no guarantees that Sedaris will read from Santaland Diaries or discuss the holidays at all, but he might, and either way, he puts on a thoroughly entertaining performance. He’s sold out his last three shows at the Mondavi Center for the Arts (1 Shields Avenue in Davis), so get your ticket ($13.50-$51) sooner rather than later for this show at 8 p.m. on Friday, November 11.

On Saturday, November 12, and Sunday, November 13, the SnowBomb Ski & Board Festival will be taking place at Cal Expo (1600 Exposition Boulevard) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Attendees will have access to discounted snow-sports gear in addition to appearances from pro athletes, live music, beer and wine tasting, and lift-ticket giveaways. General admission is free; special passes run up to $25. Check out www.snowbomb.com/ski-board-festivals to find out more.

Lastly, on Tuesday, November 15, get your fill at the Meat and Potatoes class at the Sacramento Natural Foods Co-Op (2820 R Street). Attendees will learn recipes for (and taste!) braised brisket with creamy root vegetable puree, cedar-brined pork roast with hasselback potatoes, and chicken marbella with olive oil smashed potatoes. Tickets are $50-$59 and the class starts at 6:30 p.m. Go to www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2592585 to register.