While spring feels so close, it’s still so far away — especially if you’re in northeast Ohio. We all know that snow can fall well into April here, and it looks like these polar vortexes are becoming a regular occurrence. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun and stay warm, though. Kent has plenty to offer on even the coldest of days — just make sure you don’t stay outside too long.

Get a good cup of coffee in downtown Kent. Sometimes, when it’s been really cold and you’ve been hibernating in your residence hall or apartment for days at a time, you just need to get out. Head to Tree City or Scribbles in downtown Kent to have a hot drink, and maybe get some work done in the process. If you just want to relax, you can curl up in front of Tree City’s fireplace or hide in the books at Scribbles.

A polar vortex is a great excuse for movie watching. While movie theaters are always associated with summer because of their air conditioning, they also make for a great place to stay warm. It’s Oscar season, so why not go see a few of the award-nominated films at University Plaza’s movie theater? Monday nights are only $5 a movie; and, if that threatens to break the bank, keep an eye on what’s playing in the Kiva on Friday and Saturday nights.

Maybe you like the cold and want to ice skate. If winter is your favorite season and you aren’t afraid to stay chilly, head over to the Ice Arena for open skates on Wednesday nights from 10:30 p.m. until midnight. There’s a discount with your student ID, and, if all else fails, there’s a huge fireplace there, too.

Give in and get a tattoo. Nothing will warm you up faster than having a needle stuck in your skin for a few minutes at a time. In all seriousness, Defiance Tattoos sees an increase in people looking for ink on polar vortex days, usually because those customers don’t have to go to work or school. If you’ve been thinking about a piece you want done, take advantage of a cold day to get some ink.

Kent has so much to offer all year round; however, it’s easy to forget about those things when the cold sinks in and the temptation to never leave your residence is overpowering. But when you start to get cabin fever, just think of all of the things that are a quick walk away or, if it’s an extreme freeze, car or bus ride away.  

But in all honesty, no one will judge you if you binge-watch “Orange is the New Black” on Netflix. Just make sure you do it with a roommate or a group of friends, and maybe build a fort, because you will need the moral support and the warmth.

Contact Katy Coduto at [email protected]