Events and activities for a COVID winter break

Michigan State Theatre.

Xailia Claunch
Editor

Despite shutdowns and cold weather, there is still a lot to do in the community over break! Here are some of our picks:

Entertainment

Virtual screenings at the Michigan Theater

The Michigan Theater is offering movies for streaming, ranging from holiday films, documentaries, movies by Black filmmakers, and even film education classes. Films are typically around $12 and under.

NYE Virtual Drag Spectacular
Dec 31 8:30 pm -12:30 am

Trivia, drag show, bingo, and new year’s eve countdown via Zoom. All ticket proceeds are donated to support frontline workers and local businesses. Tickets are $10. Recommended for ages 18+.

Virtual shows at the Ark

The Ark is offering virtual concerts, performances, and workshops. In late January, they will even be offering Ann Arbor’s 44th Folk Fest online. Prices vary, but are typically between $10-50.

New Year’s art camp at Ann Arbor Art Center
Dec. 28-30

The Ann Arbor Art Center is hosting a three-day virtual camp, in which participants make wearable items, photo props, and decorate a box in preparation for New Year’s Eve. Tickets are $85.

Exercise

Skate sessions at Olympia skate shop
For skateboarders who need a place to skate during the colder months, and don’t want to drive to the nearest indoor park, Olympia is renting out their mini-ramp! A one-hour session for up to four people costs $40. You can reserve your spot online. Masks are required.

Ice skating at Campus Martius

Buhr and Vet’s park may be closed, but if you’re up for a drive, Campus Martius park in downtown Detroit is open for ice skating! Tickets are $11 for adults, $9 for children and seniors, and $8 for military and first responders. Due to COVID-19, rink capacity is limited and reservations are required. Skaters must wear masks and practice social distancing.

Hiking and walks

Need to get out of the house? Check out Washtenaw County’s Border to Border trail, 40 miles of non-motorized pathways, part of which goes through WCC’s campus. Talk a walk through the Arb in downtown Ann Arbor, or walk through Riverside Park in Ypsi. For more trails, check out this list.

Kids

2nd annual Christmas eve storytime at Nicola’s books
Dec. 24, 11 am

A story, caroling, and crafts, for younger children. Bring paper plates and glue! Held via zoom.

Leslie Science Center: Be a Scientist and use STEM tools: Winter Exploration
Dec 10 – Jan 31

Leslie Science Center is renting out winter exploration kits, with activities ranging from recording air, soil, and snow temperatures, estimating ages of trees, and observing birds of prey. Prizes are awarded for completion. $3 suggested donation.

Staff is available to rent out kits on:
Wednesdays, 12-4 PM: 12/16, 12/23, 12/30
Fridays, 10 am – 4 PM: 12/18