Whether you are all about the “New Year, New You” phenomenon or you just want some ideas for making the most of these winter months - Newmarket is the place to be. From skating under the stars to a board game cafe or trivia league at Market Brewing Company, there’s something for everyone here.

For me, winter has traditionally been a time to bundle-up, hunker down and hibernate indoors as much as possible. For 2019 however, I have challenged myself to get out of my comfort-zone (the couch) and explore all that’s going on right here at home in Newmarket.  

January is the month for making resolutions. Whether you are looking to get active, be more social or learn something new, there are some fabulous (and free… or very inexpensive) ways to make your goals a reality around Town.

Here are a few ideas to help keep-up with those fresh resolutions in the coming months.

Getting outside and being more active: I’ll admit, getting up and moving, especially when it’s frosty out, can be tough. Luckily, there are a few great ways to work on your wellness that are family-friendly and accessible for all.

•  Newmarket offers free outdoor skating at Riverwalk Commons on the Tim Horton’s Skating  & Water Feature (200 Doug Duncan Drive). Lacing up and doing a few laps around the rink is an awesome way for the whole family, young and old, to enjoy an afternoon or evening in the fresh air.

• The Nokkida trail system which links Newmarket, Aurora and East Gwillimbury is also an excellent option for those who are really looking to get active. Residents can walk, jog, roll or bike the trails at a variety of access points around Town, to refresh, recharge and get some much needed vitamin D in the colder months. Be sure to check out the nature-inspired totem trail markers which span ten kilometres of the Tom Taylor Trail on your journey! As always, use caution and be mindful of weather conditions on the trails during the winter months.

• If you simply don’t find the great outdoors that great, the Fitness Centre at Magna (800 Mulock Drive) offers affordable classes and gym memberships for individuals or the whole family. Register here.

Expand your social network: There are a number of interactive and inexpensive events around Town for those looking to have fun and meet new friends.

• The Daring Pairings Board Games + Café  on January 19 at Newmarket’ Old Town Hall (460 Bostford Street) is a place to unplug and socialize with familiar faces or meet new people over beverages and board games. The event features a variety of games and foods available for purchase, including gourmet grilled cheese from Cachet Supper Club. Tickets are $5.

• Market Brewing Co. (17775 Leslie Street, Unit 4) hosts everything from live music nights, a Market Trivia League and various paint nights where people can have a pint and socialize. Click here for event listings for January.

Learn a new skill: If you’re looking to get creative or pick-up a new hobby there are some great local class options.

• Newmarket School of Fine Art (611 Steven Court) provides programs for adults, teens and children throughout the year, as well as private instruction options. Painting, drawing and sculpture classes for all levels are available to express your imagination and create something original.

• Market & Co at Upper Canada Mall has an extensive calendar of culinary classes for established foodies and first-time cooks through their Kitchen & Co experiences. Pasta making with acclaimed Chef Michael Ageloni, a kids pizza making class and a tea mixology workshop are all on the agenda for anyone looking to roll up their sleeves and get creative in the kitchen. 

These are just a few ideas to explore this winter. Let us know your favourite places and spaces for getting out and about in Town. Good luck with your resolutions and here’s to a great year ahead!