The summer in Hamilton offers concerts, sporting events, and the Hamilton Flea for getting out and spending time with people. It’s definitely not as easy to leave your cozy home bubble and get out in the community when it’s cold outside. However, winter can also be a time to meet new and interesting people in Hamilton too! Here are some ideas for getting outside when the weather is still far from Spring.
Snow Day Adventures: When we get snow, especially on a weekend day, wait until the roads are clear and consider venturing out to Rentschler Forest or Joyce Park to go sledding. You can bring old friends along, but you will likely attract a crowd if you are willing to share your sled.
Board Games Outside the House: Whether you choose from the board games available at A Game Knight or bring a board game to set up at Municipal Brew Works while you sample their beers, don’t underestimate the potential of a good game out of the house. Yes, you may just play with people you already know, but you might attract curious onlookers too!
Library Program Fun: Just in the next few weeks, the Hamilton Lane Library is hosting seminars on garden planning, Little Chicago history talks, and even a Cooks and Books book/cooking club meeting. Check out their calendar to find more information on these grown-up events as well as the many story times and kids/teen activities – sometimes meeting a fellow parent to befriend is as easy as a visit to the library!
Volunteer for a Cause: From signing up to be a Court Appointed Special Advocate through Parachute to serving your neighbors at the Community Meal Center, there are endless opportunities to spend a few hours helping those around you. By finding a great volunteer opportunity, you’ll often lift those winter spirits but will also get the chance to have great conversations that can lead to friendships.
Pursue a Hobby: Winter can be a nice quiet season: whether you love model planes and want to spend some time at Hamilton Hobbies or love to sit and chat while knitting at Lambikin’s Hideaway, you’ll find somewhere in town to try your hobbies. If you can’t find anywhere that already gathers people together for a meet-up related to your favorite arts, crafts, sports or other hobby, consider starting your own group! Others will be glad you did.