Can you feel it? Winter break is approaching, and we’re in the home stretch! Before the semester comes to a full stop, fill up your calendar with some end-of-semester activities, both on and off campus. 

The ultimate zine scene

Celebrate the city’s creative community, zine edition. Kickstarting December, Philly Zine Fest, hosted by Temple’s Libraries! From poetry to comics, each zine is a unique piece to be explored. At the fest, you can get in touch with your artistic side by crafting your very own zine! 

When: Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Where: Mitten Hall

Share some holiday heart

Dedicate time to work towards self-care this holiday season with the Wellness Resource Center organization, Heart Space. Meeting every other Thursday, Heart Space fosters a safe space for all students. Attend an upcoming meeting to gain support, uplift fellow Owls or just to talk.

When: Thursday, Dec. 7, 3:30–4:40 p.m.

Where: 201 | Wellness Resource Center | Howard Gittis Student Center

 

‘Tis the season

Holiday music is arguably the best! This month, the Temple University Night Owls Campus Community Band will be presenting a concert, free to the public. The band is composed of members from the Greater Philadelphia area, as well as Temple students and staff. Come by to support Temple talent and enjoy some holiday favorites!

When: Monday, Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m.

Where: Temple Performing Arts Center

Cozy crafting

Give the gift of handmade items this holiday season. Temple’s makerspace is hosting a Holiday Decor Workshop, open for all students to create personalized gifts. Using the makerspace’s resources, gifting possibilities are endless. Create a 3D-printed cookie cutter, or maybe some laser-cut ornaments!

When: Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2–3:30 p.m.

Where: Makerspace | Charles Library

Chill out

Looking for a night to unwind and de-stress? Visit Temple’s student-run movie theater, The Reel. Stop by to watch a nostalgic throwback, or discover a new favorite film. This month’s movie is Oppenheimer! Unwind, spend time with friends, and enjoy affordable tickets and classic theater concessions.

When: View The Reel’s website for screening information.

Where: Howard Gittis Student Center

Glide into winter break

Winter in the city is quite simply as festive as it gets! This December, make plans with friends to visit the seasonal winter wonderland at Dilworth Park. Skate with a view of City Hall, grab a cocoa, and finish up with some shopping! Oh, and don’t forget to pack your OWLcard … Temple students receive a discount, and Thursday night is college night (that means even MORE discounts!).

When: Through February 25! Visit the website for details.

Where: Dilworth Park

Gift galore!

If you prefer shopping over DIYing, visit the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market to gather your holiday goodies. Taking place at Dilworth Park right outside of City Hall and the Christmas Village, over 40 local vendors are gathering to sell crafts and art! Explore and get ready to shop til you drop.  

When: All of December! Visit the website for details.

Where: Dilworth Park

Take on Tinseltown

The ultimate holiday to-do: Tinseltown. Explore South Philly’s newest holiday spectacular, taking place at FDR Park. Masterful light displays illuminate the landscape, creating the ideal backdrop for holiday pics! Still in the mood to skate? Get ready for the ultimate skating adventure, Tinseltown’s Ice Trail, winding through the expansive light displays. 

When: All of December! Visit the website for details.

Where: FDR Park

—Avery Bumsted, Class of 2025