It’s February 2023. The wind creeps under your door, and ice clings to the inside of your window. While there are very few strategies to break the monotony of the spring semester and survive a frostbitten Cambridge, put down the problem sets, delay the interviews, and embrace these activities to beat hibernation and keep your spirits up.
Polar Plunge in Walden Pond
In case the slush beneath your boots and 22 degree wind chill doesn’t satisfy your craving for cold, take a trip to Walden Pond. Take a page out of Henry Thoreau’s book, Walden; or, Life in the Woods, and record every minute detail of your surroundings. Before you leave, don’t forget to plunge into the freezing water. The next thing you know your lymph nodes will be drained, brain healed, metabolism stimulated, and immune system protected—the perfect jump-start to your week.
SoWa Vintage Market
If your coat doesn’t have enough fur, your common room is looking a little worse for wear, or you need to bundle up in a new wool scarf—don’t fear, the SoWa Vintage Market is here! The market is an underground haven for all lovers of Y2K leather bomber jackets, antique typewriter machines, renaissance style wooden frames, and crochet balaclavas. You may not be saving money by purchasing trinkets you probably don’t need, but you sure will get a great deal for it. Take a self-care Sunday and hop on the T to the SoWa Vintage Market.
Ice Skating at Frog Pond
You probably haven’t ice skated since you were a little kid clutching onto a stabilizing device, but 2024 is your year for new beginnings. The Boston Common Frog Pond is the best place to practice your hockey stop and ring in the new year with friends. Even better, join the Boston College mass every Tuesday night from 6-9 pm at Frog Pond for half-priced tickets for college students.
Kick into the Cambridge Cuisine
Bored of HUDS? Aren’t we all! Save up for the week to treat yourself to one of Cambridge’s hottest new restaurants. It’s time to expand your horizons past Harvard Square’s classics of Noch’s and Felipe’s. The Eaves officially debuted in Somerville’s Bow Market in September. Award winning Chefs Vincenzo Le and Duong Huynh (of another hidden gem Cicada Coffee Bar) are taking their flavors to a new level with this local Vietnamese joint. Dive into their most soul warming and acclaimed dishes from cozy vermicelli noodles with fish broth to congee with micro shrimp.
Sledding at Danehy Park
Danehy Park is the tallest point in Cambridge. While it doesn’t compare to Mount Everest’s 29,000 ft of elevation, it’s spacious enough for recreational skiing or snowboarding. For an extra layer of excitement, immerse yourself in American history during your snowy escapade. Legend has it that this is the very site where George Washington unfurled the inaugural American flag. Grab a sled, a cardboard box, a plate, or your bare butt to go sled on this historical hill this winter.
Loretta’s Last Call Line Dancing
What’s better than a hoedown in Boston? From the woolshed waltz, to the stray cat strut, or the boot scootin boogie, you can do it all at Loretta’s Last Call Line Dancing this winter. Grab a “Southern Love Potion” or a “Cupids Campari Sparkle” and dance the night away with the Southern belle of your dreams. Loretta’s is perfect for a Valentine’s Day date, or even better, a solo excursion to meet your next Southern Hubby.
Full Moon Walk at the Arnold Arboretum
New year, new moon. Don’t worry, the Arnold Arboretum is full of wildlife, but there will be no werewolves howling on your mindful full moon stroll this winter. The only thing you have to worry about is being alone with your conscience. For afternoon action, join the Arboretum’s Coyote Walks. With mating season starting, February is the prime time to see signs of the Arboretum’s resident coyote population. Check out signs of coyote tracks, scat, and find out about why coyotes are in Boston in the first place.
Ellie Tunnell ʼ27 (ellie_tunnell@college.harvard.edu) cracked her head open ice skating.