During December, exams are looming all the way up until the winter break. It’s daunting and stressful, so it’s important to take some time away from studying and worrying to have a little well-deserved seasonal fun. Here are a few ideas for ways to get into the holiday spirit throughout this upcoming month!
1. Holiday movies at Galaxy or The Apollo
An activity that requires me to stay indoors doing basically nothing is a winner in my books. Galaxy Cinemas in Waterloo is playing The Polar Express on December 10th at 11am for $2.99, a Love Actually quote-along is being played on December 9th, 6:30pm at the Apollo Cinema in downtown Kitchener (get tickets here), or Die Hard (a classic Christmas flick, in my opinion) is also at the Apollo on December 10th, 6:30pm.
2. Comfort food eating and holiday drink tasting
One of my favourite things to do during this month is to shamelessly indulge in all of the festive drinks and yummy comfort foods featured in cozy cafes. I love going to the Princess Cafe, Coffee Culture (their S’mores Lattes and Peppermint Mochas are freaking delicious), Matter of Taste in downtown Kitchener, and of course, Starbucks (so basic, I know).
3. Skating
I’m garbage at skating, but it makes me feel slightly more active and outdoorsy during the winter months where I usually hibernate and become a slug creature. There are numerous places to go skating around the area, including Kitchener City Hall, Waterloo Town Square, and the Kitchener Auditorium.
4. Cambridge Christmas Bazaar
This is the kind of thing I live for during the holidays. I love embracing the charming, tight-knit vibe that Christmas Bazaars bring around this time of year. So whip out that pocket money you probably don’t have, make the journey to Cambridge if you’re able to, and enjoy! See more information on their Facebook page.
5. Wonders of Winter in Waterloo Park
Waterloo Park is always a nice place to go for a relaxing walk, and it’s even better during December. They have Christmas lights on every night, hot drink nights, and horse drawn trolley rides. What’s not to love about that festive combination? Check out more info about it here.
6. Bingemans Gift of Lights
If you love the twinkling splendor and colourful joy of Christmas lights like I do, then Bingemans has you covered with their massive, drive-thru light display. See the details about it here.
7. Gift shopping at Conestoga Mall
Since mall hours are extended during the holiday season, I’m pretty much given just another excuse to go there. I’m a passionate window-shopper, a self-proclaimed expert gift giver, and I generally like (even though my bank account doesn’t) going to the mall to unwind when it’s festively decorated and there’s Christmas music booming everywhere.
8. Snow tubing
This is about the most adventurous thing I’ll ever do when it’s cold outside. If the weather permits, Chicopee Tube Park is a solid place to go. Snow tubing is a great way to have a good time with a bunch of friends or used as a fun date idea.
The most important thing during this busy month is that you enjoy yourself, and try not to let the stress of exams consume you entirely. Most of us may be adults, but there’s no harm in letting that childlike joy of the season grant you the ability to set aside some very needed time for fun. Pro-tip: Have an attitude like Buddy the Elf.