This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Toronto chapter.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Who says that winter can’t be fun? While it may be harder to plan as many exciting outdoor activities, the cold brings a charm of its own. Take advantage of this Holiday season and try out these fun dates with your SO!

1) Watch a show (5/5): This is always a great option since there is never a lack of great shows in Toronto, especially around the Holidays! Worried about breaking the bank? Hiptix (totix.ca) offers an amazing range of discounts and $5 tickets to all students aged 14-25! These can include a wide variety of plays, musicals, and concerts. In a city like ours, you’re bound to find a suitable show! Here are some of my personal favourites for a special night out:

i. Second City:

Second City tickets are available on Hiptix for $5, and always make for a great date. The shows are fun, creative, and haven’t failed to live up to expectations yet!

ii. Mirvish Shows:

These are on the pricier side but definitely worth it. I saw Les Miserables for $40 last year and Wicked this fall for $60; both were among the top ten dates I’ve had.

iii. Movie in theatres:

When all else fails, revert back to the classic! Nothing says a good date like a good movie and popcorn. With hits like Mockingjay and The Hobbit on the big screen this season, excitement is guaranteed! Even better: the UTSU offers discounted movie tickets for $9.07 + tax each, available at their office! Warning: This backfired on me last year when I saw Frozen with my boyfriend and he fell in love with Elsa.

2) Board Game Café (2.5/5):

For a more interactive activity, try out one of Toronto’s many board game cafés (or bars)! These include Castle Board Games at College and Spadina, Snakes and Lattés at Bloor and Bathurst, Snakes and Lagers near College and Bathurst, and many, many more! What better way to show off your smarts than in some friendly competition?

3) Laserquest (4/5):

One of my favourite activities of all time, Laserquest is a sure hit whether you’re the active type or not! This will definitely ramp up your energy in the cold winter months. Toronto offers a few great locations, but having access to a car is recommended. Laserquest is also a great option for a group or a double date.

4) Go to a museum (2/5):

No matter your interest — history, art, shoes, fabric, or more — there’s something for you in Toronto. Many of these museums come with discounts for students, and the UTSU offers discounted tickets to Ripley’s aquarium for $24.

5) Ice Skating or Tobogganing (3/5):

A total classic. Nothing looks as picturesque a couple holding hands and skating. Unfortunately, if you’re like me and don’t know how to skate, tobogganing is always an option in the many public parks that the city offers! Hint: adding beavertails at the end will guarantee a 7/5!

6) Build a snowman or snow-fort (2/5):

Do you wanna build a snowman? Of course you do. Just make sure to bundle up!

7) Movie night in (5/5):

Love Actually has become a traditional, and much-loved date for me every Christmas. There’s no better way to escape the cold than to get cozy and cuddle with a cheesy rom com. Bonus if you have a fireplace! You can add an easy twist to this by making it a drinking game. The Hercules Disney movie (drink for every mythological inaccuracy) made a great date.

8) Dinner out (5/5):

This one is my personal go-to for a good date at any time of the year. Spice it up by choosing a fancy restaurant and wearing semi-formal attire! There are so many options in Toronto and a hundred ways to personalize your meal!

9) Cook or bake at home (3/5):

If you’re not so set on shelling out for a nice, fancy dinner, no problem! Making the meal is half the fun, and twice as intimate! Just light up some candles and it’ll be just as good as a night out!

10) Read aloud (2/5):

This is a more low-key activity that might not work for everyone, but it’s a great way to relax. I’d recommend taking a walk down memory lane with this one, and revisiting some much loved children’s books.

11) Covers and Cocoa (5/5):

Let it snow while you drink hot chocolate or wine and cuddle up on a fluffy rug by a fireplace.

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