10 Ways to Stay Culturally Engaged This Winter
Jan 18, 2023
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The winter season is upon us. It’s a time when things seem to move more slowly, and we tend to hunker down in our homes and hibernate. Because of this it can sometimes be challenging to find inspiration, broaden our learning, or even feel connected to others and our community. However, winter is an excellent time to pick up new hobbies and interests or get friends together to see a musical or visit a museum. Read on for inspiration on exploring new cultural activities this winter.
1.Head to an Art Museum
Winter is an ideal time of year for browsing art museums. Spending a day amongst inspiring masterpieces can combat any dreary weather. Check for special exhibitions at your local art museum for visiting collections that you won’t want to miss. Often, museums offer free admission on certain evenings or days of the month, so try to coordinate your entry with a discount!
2.Support a Holiday Production
Get in the festive mood this winter by supporting a local holiday production. Whether it is a gospel church choir, a holiday orchestral performance, or the staging of a festive musical or play, support your community and neighbors by patronizing a local show! Ticket revenue often serves as donations to keep the organizations running and the local arts community thriving!
3.Listen to A New Podcast
If you’re homebound due to cold temperatures or inclement weather, why not start a new podcast to keep you culturally engaged this winter? If you’re looking to stretch your brain, try the TED Radio Hour or This American Life. To learn about the past, try A History of the World in 100 Objects by the British Museum. For a laugh, check out Why Won’t You Date Me? Expand your horizons by listening to something outside your comfort zone this season; you’ll find it a fascinating conversation topic too!
4.Discover Local Musicians
Exploring your local musician scene can make for a great evening out with friends this winter. Find a couple of bars or venues where different bands are playing and hop from one to another while you support local performers. If you want to make an event of it, book a sprinter shuttle service so everyone can consume a beverage or two and you are chauffeured from door to door!
5.Join a Book Club
Book clubs are about more than just reading a book each month! If you need an intellectual challenge, joining a book club can give your brain some exercise this winter! These organizations meet to discuss, interpret, and debate literature or fiction. You can join a club based on your interests - history, biographies, romance - pick one and start your journey towards great conversation and new friendships!
6.Visit a Historical Reenactment
Historical reenactments, or living history, use actors (usually volunteers) who are passionate about portraying life in a certain period to educate and entertain spectators. Attending a reenactment of a historical event allows you to see details in ways that may be difficult to get from seeing a TV show or reading a book. The sights, sounds, smells, and costumes are entirely different in person. Travel back in time at one of these reenactments this winter!
7.Patronize a Dance Performance
Research professional dance companies that are touring in your city this winter. You can usually find a list of shows on your local theater’s website. Choose a classical or festive ballet or a renowned contemporary company. Think outside the box and see a hip-hop show, Irish dancing, or a modern performance. No matter which dance style you choose, seeing elite professionals perform is truly a treat!
8.Grab Seats at the Symphony
Don’t be intimidated by an orchestral performance - the symphony is for everyone! A symphonic show has so much more to offer than the classics you may know of. Local symphonies will often perform special shows dedicated to musical theater or movie scores which can be an enjoyable event for couples, friends, and families!
9.Start Learning a New Language
Learning a language is easier than ever these days. You don’t have to attend a class or even struggle through a textbook; the easiest way to pick up a new language is on your phone! Try downloading an app like Duolingo or Babbel this winter - you’ll be surprised at how quickly you progress just by practicing fifteen to twenty minutes daily!
10.Pick Up a Classic Novel
There is no better wintertime activity than curling up with a good book. Reading a book is like starting a new adventure; winter is the perfect time to dig into the classics. Alternatively, you can re-read a book you read years ago. Previously-read books can have an altered meaning at different points in our lives, so see how you can see an old favorite in a new light!
Tags: English