If socks and candles aren’t quite cutting it this year, we have some ideas to give the gift of time. It can be an excuse to hang out, nudge someone to try something new or inspire someone to take a night out. A new experience could be just the thing to add a little zip to someone’s life in January. The Exchange is brimming with things to do, we put together a list of a few of our favourites to help you connect with loved ones this winter:
PLAY. With over 1500 games to choose from games cafe Across the Board truly has a game for everyone. Date night, family game night or a Connect 4 hang out with an old pal you haven’t seen for a while – games are a great way to bring people together. Across the Board is also fully licensed with a complete menu. If you have a competitive friend, why not enter them in January’s puzzle race?
EXPLORE. No matter what age you are The Manitoba Museum and Planetarium will get you thinking and exploring. No childhood in Winnipeg is complete until you’ve smelled the Nonsuch! Bonus: Planetarium shows are all about 40 minutes long – perfect for wriggly kiddos. If you’re feeling brave – give the parents a free afternoon and take the kids solo.
PLAY OUTSIDE. Old Market Square rink is perfect for wobbly skaters. 😉 Not too big, not too small…it’s juuuust right. Cradled by old historic buildings and the Cube Stage – it’s ultimate urban active winter experience! We’ll also have curling available – because Canada. Did you know that there are 11 different restaurants literally around the one block radius of Old Market Square? From pubs to french restaurants to cafes – there is a post-activity hangout for everyone and every budget!
DANCE. Make January a little more exciting by encouraging someone to try something completely new – like a dance class! Dance just like Richard Gere and J-Lo with a dance class at Ted Motyka Dance Studio. Learn all the timeless dance moves – like the foxtrot, tango or classic ballroom for a surprisingly (active) fun night out.
MAKE. Arts Junktion has classes and workshops teaching embroidery, knitting and crocheting. It can be so peaceful and relaxing to use your hands to make something. More than an experience – you’ll also leave with a one-of-a-kind art piece to take home.
SWEAT. Saturday morning sweat and brunch, anyone? Sweat hangouts are all the rage. Give the gift of stress relief, planks AND eggs benedict! The Community Gym has a variety of spin, boxing and circuit training classes. Pan Am Boxing also packs a hard sweaty exercise punch in the neighbourhood.
LISTEN. When is the last time you went to the theatre? It’s a surprising way to hear a story – with live humans acting! Be entertained, gain new perspectives and have a shared experience with others in the theatre. Excellent productions are coming up at The Royal MTC. We’re excited to see Every Brilliant Thing. Cozy post show hangouts are waiting for you literally around the corners at Forth, Patent 5 and Nonsuch Brewing Company.
WIN. Know someone competitive AND smart? Bring them out to Wee Johnny’s for Tuesday trivia night! Because Tuesday is the new Saturday – especially in January.
We hope these ideas inspire you to spend some time in The Exchange re-connecting, playing and simply just being with people you care about.