The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction recently changed its guidelines for alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks a week, a stark difference from the previous guideline of 15 drinks for men and 10 drinks for women.
University and college students often consider alcohol essential to having fun. While a lively social life is important in a balanced life, so is one’s health. So, how can we achieve a fun Friday night without putting ourselves at a greater risk of developing cancer, liver disease and other life-threatening health issues?
Despite Ottawa’s reputation for being a boring city, it’s full of fun activities that don’t require alcohol consumption. Let’s dive into a few!
Movie night
Don’t underestimate the fun a movie night can create. Whether you rent or stream a movie and stay in or go out to one of Ottawa’s many theatres, a good old-fashioned movie night is sure to impress any group.
Sports, sports, sports
Nothing beats seeing a game live, whether you are a regular sports fan or only tune in for the big games. Ottawa is home to many semi-professional and professional sports teams. Catching a game and dinner will surely satisfy your social cravings. If you don’t feel like dropping the dough on some Sens tickets, why not go and support our Ravens?
Get experimental
The Central Experimental farm is more than just boring fields. Located right behind Carleton, you can find the Dominion Arboretum, Ornamental Gardens and Fletcher Wildlife Garden, all of which are accessible to the public from dawn to dusk. The farm hosts a tropical greenhouse and is home to Canada’s Agriculture and Food Museum.
Museum hops > bar crawls
Ottawa is the perfect place to swap bar crawling for museum hopping. The city is home to seven of Canada’s nine national museums. So take a tour, and enjoy everything the city has to offer. Check out the Ottawa Public Library’s website before you go. They offer passes to some museums in Ottawa. Or, attend on a Thursday night. Several of Ottawa museums are free on Thursday evenings.
Play tourist
Just because you may live in Ottawa doesn’t mean you can’t be a tourist. Keep an eye on Sparks Street for many interesting and fun festivals throughout the year. Including the international busker festival, Sparks Street PoutineFest and Ottawa RibFest.
Explore non-alcoholic drinks
Try a mocktail! Just because alcohol may not be on your agenda doesn’t mean going out with friends should be completely sworn off too. Most restaurants and bars have great non-alcoholic drink options. Go out and discover a new favourite!
Having fun is not dependent on getting hammered with your friends, so look around and try new things. You may discover a new hobby or a new you. Stay healthy, and stay safe.
Feature image from file
