Winter Warm-Up “To Do” List

When it’s minus 30 outside—or minus anything, for that matter—it’s easy to get into the routine of changing into your pyjamas and watching Netflix. To quote Jerry Seinfeld, “not that there’s anything wrong with that”, but we’ve discovered there’s no shortage of indoor activities to take advantage of while Jack Frost is in town. Whether it’s a date night that will leave you warm and fuzzy, or a night in with friends that will provide laughs and good cheer, in a nutshell has you covered until the warmer weather is welcomed back into our lives:

An easy way to judge a new restaurant is how often it pops up in your Instagram feed. That may sound like a ridiculous statement, but if my greater circle of friends is not only trying out a new place, but deeming it worthy of Instagramming, the review has to be pretty good (if not only, aesthetic perfection). This new cafe, located at 53 William St. is known for its chocolate delicacies including fondue and speciality hot chocolates. What better way to enjoy this weather than by catching up with a loved one over a warm beverage and a few too many calories. We won’t tell your New Year’s resolution. Visit their website for the completely decadent menu.

In just a few short days, on January 15, the list of Oscar nominees will be announced. Following the momentum from last weekend’s Golden Globes, award season is upon us and, hate it or love it, it’s always kind of fun to follow the frenzy. Two years ago, I got together with a group of friends every Wednesday from the time the nominees were announced to watch one of the Best Picture candidates. It was so much fun, that all three Ottawa nuts are getting together with friends to try it again. Not only does it force you to watch some excellent movies, but you also end up watching ones you may never have gotten around to seeing. They are award winning, after all! Come show time,on Feb. 22,  it also makes you that much more invested in the results. Some may still be in theatres, while others may have to be rented off Rogers On Demand (or another rental company) but watching one movie a week with a group of friends is a great way to get ready for the big night! You can then plan to have an Oscar party, complete with highly competitive Oscar pool, and everyone will be that much more the wiser! 

This indoor activity seems to be all the rage. Paint Nite has come to Ottawa and local bars around the city are signing up to host art classes for thirsty patrons. The idea is to sip on cocktails while art instructors will guide you through a specific painting tutorial. For $45 (+ tax), not only are you provided with everything you need, including canvas, paints, brushes and even a smock, but you get to leave with your own masterpiece at the end of the night. The classes range in difficulty and are held in different locations every time. The next available course, that is not already sold out, takes place on January 14 at Pub 101 in the ByWard Market. For the full list of event dates click here.

Ironically, a cold beer can make your night that much warmer on a chilly night. After a recent trip to Halifax, where consuming a flight of beer was our favourite afternoon activity, we’re sold on the idea that it’s a great winter warm up.  You can head to Bier Market, Big Rig, Lowertown or Mill St. Brew Pub, to name a few, to enjoy flights of beer, or go a different route and buy a variety of ales from the Beer Store and DIY at home!

Winter is all about comfort food, so we’ve borrowed this idea from our friend The Domestic Blonde and her bi-yearly “Battle of the Pizzas” with her Other Half. A great date night idea or good for a girls night in, the host provides dough and sauce, while guests bring whatever toppings they want to create the perfect pizza! Sample each other’s pies and declare a winner (harder for couples to do so!).

It’s not a new idea, but Tricia Nights are popping up all over the city. Kate recommends taking a visit to Pour Boy, who hosts a very popular trivia night on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 – 8:30 p.m. (no reservations). Other local bars are taking notice, like: St. Louis Bar and Grill Elgin, who hosted its first Trivia night last Saturday. It’s a fun thing to do as a date or with a group of friends, and you may be surprised to see who the brightest ones in your group are …. or who can’t answer a question to save their life … either way!

Every season should be about giving back, but on Friday, January 30, 2015 students from Algonquin College, Carleton University and The University of Ottawa will be putting good-natured rivalries aside and dancing all together.  This is the 2nd annual Ottawa Dance Marathon, where last year the students raised an astounding $32,469.00. Hundreds of students and supporters will fill the dance floors at The Liquor Store and the Green Room, two highly popular Ottawa establishments, and dance for six hours straight between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. cheered on by family, friends and some CHEO patients.