Find out what’s happening in and around campus this winter term
Photo by Bich Tran via Pexels.
Classes are back in session, and campus is buzzing with energy…despite the sub-zero temperatures. Whether your New Year’s resolution was to make new friends this year, try out a new skill, or explore new places, there are plenty of fun activities happening around campus this spring. Get out there and sample the social events this university has to offer with our handy back-to-school event guide!
Discover live music at Fel’s
If you’re looking for something to do on Friday night, why not enjoy the growing campus music scene at the beloved on-campus pub, Felicita’s. As part of the live-music Friday series, performer Max MacKrill will play a live set on Jan. 26.
Originally hailing from the U.K., MacKrill plays a mixture of rock, blues, country, and pop in an acoustic style with a loop pedal. Chill out, grab a beverage, and enjoy a night of great tunes, good food, and laid-back vibes. All with no cover charge!
Felicita’s Campus Pub, Student Union Building
Jan. 26 7:30 p.m.
Free Admission. 19+ only (ID required).
Nourish, flourish, and feel Inspired with the Office of Student Life.
Back for another semester, the Nourish and Flourish program from the Office of Student Life is the perfect opportunity to build meaningful connections and enjoy a balanced, delicious dinner catered by a community partner. (As a frequent attendee, I can vouch for the great food and vibes!)
Participants are offered a free meal and invited to sit at a table with their peers, where they are given open questions and prompts to get the conversation flowing. You’re invited to think about your and others’ experiences in the world, fostering connection, empowerment, and reflection.
Each week’s questions focus on a different theme, such as “relationship to technology.” You might think about what artificial intelligence means to you, how you see technology in your life, or how it impacts your community. Prepare for some thought-provoking conversation.
There is no pressure to discuss, just bring a sense of openness and share your perspective while you break bread with others!
All events are hosted at Side Project Coffee in the Halpern Centre for Graduate Students.
Jan. 29 4:30–7 p.m. Relationship to Life Transitions
Feb. 12 4:30–7 p.m. Relationship to Academia
Feb. 26 4:30–7 p.m. Relationship to Creativity and Art
March 11 4:30–7 p.m. Relationship to Others
Events are free and open to all students. Registration is required via the Nourish and Flourish Website.
Learn Cuban salsa in Vertigo
Step up your New Year’s fitness routine with the UVic Cuban Salsa Club. The dance is performed in “Rueda de casino” style, which means you dance in a circle, changing partners with each new move, so you’ll get a chance to meet everyone. All levels of dancers are welcome, and they even have an introductory circle for new dancers to find their rhythm and learn some basics before moving on to beginner, intermediate, and even advanced circles. Join them in Vertigo on Wednesday evenings throughout the spring for some Latin beats and a great time!
Vertigo, Student Union Building. Instagram: @uviccubansalsa
Jan. 31, Feb. 7, 28. March 6, 13, 20, 27.
All sessions start at 7 p.m. with a free class, followed by social dance.
Explore Botanical Beach with the UVic Sustainability Project
Join the UVSP as they take an ecological guided walk through Botanical Beach, just outside Port Renfrew, on unceded Pacheedaht territories. Explore the famous circular tide pools of this captivating natural haven while discovering the abundance of marine life there. The walk will be a beginner-friendly 3 km stroll, taken gently. You’ll have plenty of time to appreciate your surroundings and learn about sustainability and environmental stewardship. Don’t forget to bring your packed lunch as the group will stop to eat on the beach. Transportation to and from the site is offered by the Community Action bus.
Feb. 3 7:30 a.m. start.
The sliding scale fee for transport is $5–25.
Sign up via Instagram @Uvicsustainabilityproject.
Participants are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes for walking. The route is not wheelchair accessible but may be suitable for other mobility concerns; contact organizers via direct message on Instagram.
Cuddle a pup at the SUB.
Back to school and already missing the family pet? Don’t worry! Puppy playtime is back at the SUB!
In partnership with the Pacific Animal Therapy Society (PATS), the UVSS brings students a monthly dose of pet therapy. Visit the Upper Lounge in the SUB, where you can meet some specially provided therapy dogs for some adorable stress relief between classes.
Make sure to get in line early for this ever-popular event and ensure you get ample time for cuddles!
Upper Lounge, Student Union Building.
Feb. 6 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Free admission.
Head to the Grad House for game night.
Are you feeling bored? Try board game nights with the Graduate Students Society (GSS). Each Tuesday, challenge your buddies to a friendly (or competitive) night of tabletop gaming. The GSS has stacks and stacks of classic and unconventional games to choose from, helping you unwind after classes. Go by yourself or bring a group ready to play. The Grad House restaurant is open with local beers (or soda) available to purchase.
Halpern Centre for Graduate Students.
Every Tuesday, 5 p.m–8 p.m.
Free admission, and refreshments are available for purchase.
Check GSS Instagram for updates, @uvic_gss.
