Looking for stuff to do this winter? Here are six things to check out

Student walks in snow
Getting out during the winter can be difficult, but here's a list of activities to keep you staying active. (Photo by Ken Jones)

Tina Adamopoulos

We get it, winter can be tough at the best of times. The days are shorter, the nights get colder, and it can be difficult to stay active.   

From staying active outdoors to social events available to UTSC students around campus, we’ve put together a list of activities to help you stay active this winter.

For staying indoors:

Explore the Doris McCarthy Gallery

Take a guided tour of Doris McCarthy’s home and studio, dubbed “Fool’s Paradise” on Jan. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m.

McCarthy had the cottage built overlooking the Scarborough Bluffs, and became her permanent home in 1946. The tour highlights her life as an artist and educator. Click here to register.

The DMG’s annual Visiting Artist Lecture Series will feature Toronto-based visual artist Kate Wilson. Wilson will feature some of her pieces as well as discuss her artistic practice. An artist Q&A will follow the talk. Swing by AA304 on Jan. 23, from 1 to 2 p.m.

Indigenous Learning Circle

Students, staff and faculty are welcome to join an Indigenous Learning Circle taking place on Jan. 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. in BV 380.

Led by U of T Scarborough’s Elder Wendy Philips, the circles are an opportunity to learn more about Indigenous traditions. Elder Wendy will discuss Indigenous culture, knowledge systems and healing.

Ukulele Jam Session

Music is proven to help manage stress. Unplug and let your inner musician shine with the Department of Arts, Culture and Media’s Ukulele Jam Session.

You’ll learn a new song at every #UkuleleWednesdays session. No prior experience needed, but be sure to bring your own ukulele to the session. Don’t have one? No worries! There will be extras provided.

The sessions start Jan. 11, and take place every Wednesday from 1 to 2 p.m. in AA303.

TPASC training sessions

If outdoor sports aren’t your thing, the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre provides an array of group activities, from yoga and Zumba to training sessions and boot camps. Click here for their monthly schedules and to sign up for a class.

Want to work out alone? The TPASC Fitness Centre is free for registered students (who have paid their incidental fees) and includes a variety of cardio and strength equipment, as well as a climbing wall.

These sessions take place year-round, so check the website for more details about when specific ones take place.

Ready to embrace the cold?

Skiing and snowboarding at Brimacombe

In one of their two off-campus trips, the Department of Athletics and Recreation are heading for the slopes at Brimacombe Ski Resort.

The evening trip of skiing and snowboarding takes place across three different nights. Interested participants must register at least one week before the trip. You can hit the slopes right away, or take some lessons first.

There are three dates (Jan. 18, Feb. 8 and Mar. 8). Prices are $24 (plus tax) for a lift ticket, $24 (plus tax) for ski or snowboard and helmet rental, and $15 (plus tax) for a one-hour lesson.

Trip to Arrowhead Provincial Park

The Department of Athletics and Recreation is heading up to Arrowhead Provincial Park on Feb. 22 for a day of outdoor winter sports.

Activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snow tubing. Cost of the trip is $25 (ski and rentals are extra)