Cheap or free things you can do during Reading Week


Ahhhhhh. A sign of relief that long can only mean one thing – it’s Reading Week! Congratulations on making it to the unofficial halfway point of the Winter Semester. As we enjoy a much-needed week off, we hope you take the time to look after yourself and maybe catch up on some of that sleep you’ve been neglecting.

But sleeping in isn’t the only thing you can do while you don’t have class! This mild winter (excluding that one week in January 🥶) has allowed everyone to stay mobile and enjoy all that the early months of 2024 have to offer in person instead of from afar. And while the student budget doesn’t necessarily entail endless spending cash, thankfully, there are many activities you can do this February that’ll keep you in the green.

While you’ve got some time in between study sessions, here are some events and activities you can take advantage of in the Calgary Area that won’t break the bank.

Go with the flow in Bowness Park ⛸️

Although the winter has brought us tons of snow so far, the temperatures have been mild enough to allow some delightful outdoor ecstasy. If you’re hoping to fulfill your Canadian duty of lacing up the skates this year, there might not be a more beautiful place to do it than Bowness Park. 

From frozen trails and pond curling to night-time fireplaces on the lake, you can get some fresh air and make a lasting moment with friends and family. You can check out all Bowness Park has to offer here.

Take advantage of $5 Cheap Tuesdays at Cineplex 🍿

Love a night out to the movies, but hate how expensive it’s gotten? Lucky you, as Cheap Tuesdays are back at Cineplex for February! All movie tickets are only $5, with small popcorn also lowered to $5 a pop. With deals like this, there’s never been a better time to grab some friends and catch up on some modern classics.

But this deal isn’t limited to the week of Reading Break! If you’re looking to get your movie fix, head down to your closest Cineplex any Tuesday during February to get some quality cheap seats! Book your night out here.

Let your troubles fly away with some bird-watching 🐦

Want to see some feathery friends, but the zoo is a little too far away? Lucky for you, Calgary offers a wide array of wildlife right in our own backyard, you just need to know where to look. Even in the winter, there are dozens of unique birds you can hunt for across the city – ranging from tiny migrant Warblers to the majestic Great Horned Owl! Who knows, you might even find a few other friends during your nature excursion. 🦌

If you’re looking for a place to start your snowy safari, check out Nature Calgary’s birding locations!

Become a chocolate sommelier at YYC Hot Chocolate Fest

Want a reason to tour the town while also supporting local businesses? If you’re a fan of sugary and sweet, there may not be a better excuse than during YYC’s Hot Chocolate Fest. There are nearly limitless options to get your cocoa fix from local cafes around town (including from Barrow right on campus!), and after your pick-me-up, you can explore all these vibrant communities offer.

Unsure of where to start? You can curate your treks for this delicious nectar by price point and location here.


No matter what your plans are this Reading Week, we hope you make some time for a little rest and relaxation. If you have any inquiries, be sure to send them to info@samru.ca.