As summer turns to fall, it’s easy to find reasons to hole up in your dorm room. Cooler weather is perfect for watching Halloween movies, doing plentiful FYP readings and baking pumpkin spice everything. Or maybe you’re just new to Halifax and aren’t sure what’s out there. Lucky for you, Halifax is teeming with fun, often free activities that’ll get you exploring the city. Some even count as exercise! Unless you’re on one of our sports teams or an avid gym-goer, it can be easy to forget you no longer have gym class built into your schedules. Whether you’re trying to fit a little more fitness into your life, or just trying to get off campus more often, here are five fun and inexpensive activities. After all, isn’t university about trying new things?
September yoga deals
Free yoga! If you show your student ID card at Shanti Hot Yoga (5508 Spring Garden Road) during the month of September, you’ll get a complimentary seven-class pass to use for the rest of the month. Yoga mat rental is $5, or bring your own. There’s also a free yoga class on Sept. 27 in Victoria Park from 12:05 p.m. to 12:55 p.m. Bring your friends!
Spooky walking ghost tours
If you’re interested in exploring Halifax by night while also getting in a few extra steps, be sure to check out one of the many available ghost tours. The Citadel runs tours every Thursday, Friday and Sunday until Oct. 27, at 8:30 p.m. The Halifax Ghost Walk, which claims to be the oldest running ghost tour in the city, offers tours all through September and October for just $10 if you show your student ID card. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for more details.
Circus acts
If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, Studio in Essence (1535 Dresden Row) is offering $12 intro classes for aerial silks, aerial hoop, pole and rope fitness all through September. The classes are all one hour long and are an accessible, fun way to try out something new.
Seaport Market
For a Saturday morning outing that includes fresh, local food and great views of the ocean, look no further than the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market. With over 150 vendors selling all kinds of food, art and handicrafts, you’re in for some great finds. You’ll also be supporting local artisans and farmers. You can take the number seven bus, or, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can walk. Bonus points if you take a stroll to enjoy the scenery (cute dogs! cool ships!) along the oceanfront boardwalk on your way back.
Dal Outdoors Society
Or, if you really want to get off campus, join the Dalhousie Outdoors Society. They offer free outdoorsy outings including hikes, canoeing trips and even camping! Most outings take place during the fall or spring when the weather is less chilly. You can find them on Facebook, where you can sign up for notifications for future trips.