Holidays has come to a close, the new semester is fully up and running, and as much as I wish winter was over on December 31st, we still have to suffer through a few months of cold and darkness. Now I don’t know about anyone else, but one of the best ways to kick those winter blues, is to spend some time with friends (even if all you want to do is lie in bed and watch Netflix).
However, as University students, my friends and I definitely don’t have the kind of money to go on amazing friend dates all the time (we do splurge on sushi and nails every once in a while…). So, it’s been important to find some things we can all do together to help everyone feel a little better without breaking the bank. Here is my go-to list of cheap-ass friend dates!
1. Watch a movie
Pretty obvious one, but honestly lying in our bed watching Netflix on your own is a little more depressing than lying on the couch with your best friend or family watching the same thing. It’s so fun having those friendship shows that you wait to watch together, or sharing each other’s favourite movies.
2. Bowling
This is pretty Guelph specific (what can I say, I love this little city), but Woodlawn bowl costs one $2 per game after 9pm on Sundays to Thursdays! And let’s be real, we were going to be staying up kind of late anyway, might as well do something fun.
3. Painting
This is definitely one of my favourites, and something my roommates and I do all the time. We are definitely not artists, in fact with one colour-blind roommate, one perfectionist, and one who usually gets too tired to properly finish (that’s me!), we usually have some pretty terrible finished products. But, they absolutely make us laugh, and it’s such a fun thing to do together. We’ve used Bob Ross’ Netflix show, and tried to recreate famous masterpieces like Scream and Girl with the Pearl Earring. Just try it. Trust me, it’s a good time.
4. Study date
My roommate and I love to use some free time to head over to a coffee shop, the UC, or the library and get some work done together. It’s great to have a buddy when you need to get some work done, and to have that bit of social interaction.
5. Sports
Just like not being an artist, I am definitely NOT an athlete. But, that doesn’t stop me from trying to play badminton with my friends on a Wednesday night! Look into what courts/gyms are open in the Athletic Centre on Campus for you and your friends to play a little game of basketball or volleyball or whatever other sport you like!
6. Board games
Definitely a great one! We play games with each other all the time in my house, and love to have a board game night with lots of friends! Some of our favourites are cards against humanity (a classic), telepaths, taboo, or charades. Plus, board games pair great with a glass of wine ;)
7. Skating
Might as well try to make the most of the winter time, and skating is a great way to do that. The skating rink on campus has some free skate times, and there are lots of free outdoor rinks around Guelph! Definitely another great way to spend some time with friends.
Hope this helps you out and that you take some time this winter for yourself and your friendships!