The University of Manitoba will be holding activities for the first-ever UM Winter Active event from Feb. 6 to 10. UM Winter Active comprises different winter activities for students, faculty and staff at the university to participate in. Outdoor activities will be held on campus throughout the week.

Participants can register for events online through the UM Winter Active page. All events are free to attend.

Director of U of M Recreation Services Tanya Angus said that the return of students and staff to campus was one motivation behind the creation of UM Winter Active. She thinks that the event will be a good way to bring people together, and will give those who are new to Canada an opportunity to try out many traditional winter activities such as skating, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

“It’s really geared toward students and staff getting active and being involved on campus in some of our traditional outdoor activities,” she said.

The Winter-Palooza, an event that will feature numerous activities, is scheduled to be held Thursday, Feb. 9 on the Duckworth Quad from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Those who sign up for ice skating must bring their own skates, however, equipment will be provided for other activities such as snowshoeing and outdoor fat tire biking. The event will also provide free hot chocolate and treats.

She urged those who want to participate in the week’s events to register in advance in order to ensure that there is enough equipment ready for everyone.

Angus said that she finds it exciting to have people back on campus and able to get together for events once again. She hopes that after this year’s event, similar winter activities can take place in the coming years.un