As reading week approaches at its usual snail’s pace, the final week leading up to it can feel particularly humbling. As we work through the first round of midterms while assignments pile up as high as the recent snowbanks, it’s easy for things to feel especially cold and overwhelming.
Luckily, Valentine’s Day arrives just in time to lift campus spirits. Whether you’re celebrating with someone special, spending time with close friends or embracing self-love, the Valentine’s-themed events hosted by Brock’s clubs are set to fill the week with warmth and levity, offering a space for fun prior to the well-deserved week off ahead.
Monday, Feb. 9
Just before our final week before the break kicks into high gear, the Brock Child and Youth Studies Association will be hosting Friensintine in Rez 8 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday afternoon. The event will feature pottery painting, bouquet making and henna, with a $5 participation fee. Entry is free and food will also be available, making it an easy and creative way to ease into the week.
On Monday, Brock’s Makerspace will be hosting a laser-cut necklace event. Attendees will learn how to use the laser cutter and design custom acrylic heart necklaces, perfect to keep for yourself or gift to someone special.
Tuesday, Feb. 10
Tuesday starts by glamming up the morning with big energy and bold looks as Residence 8 welcomes drag queen Macy Manolo for drag brunch. This event will be serving more than just food, offering a high-energy start to your Tuesday that you won’t want to miss. Attendees will be treated to a mocktail and free breakfast, with doors opening at 10:30 a.m. and brunch running unitl 1:30 p.m. RSVPs can be made through ExperienceBU.
Tuesday also sees the American Sign Language (ASL) Club offering Valentine’s crafts, hot chocolate, snacks and a s’mores maker from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Attendees will also learn Valentine’s-themed ASL signs, blending creativity with connection.
Wednesday, Feb. 11
The week’s festivities begin to pick up on Wednesday. Starting at 7:30 a.m., BUSU will be offering a free hot breakfast. Later, at 11:30 a.m., Student Life will host the Be Mine Bash in Market Hall, featuring colouring and watercolour crafts, make-one-take-one Valentines, a self-love lounge and an assortment of candies and snacks.
From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Brock Global Bites will be hosting Bloom with Bites at Pond Inlet. The event includes a hands-on bouquet workshop where attendees can learn how to craft their own floral arrangements, followed by a game of bingo. Bingo prizes include Bath & Body Works sets, gift cards, and more. Supplies for the bouquet workshop will cost $15 per attendee.
Thursday, Feb. 12
Thursday is packed with events you won’t want to miss. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., BUSU will be hosting a Pop Up Valentine’s Day Flower Shop in the Thistle Corridor. Flowers, provided by local vendor Grandeur Premium Flower Bouquets, make for a classic and thoughtful gift.
The Brock Filipino Students Association will be distributing their Crumb and Get It! Cookie Grams on Thursday and Friday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Pre-ordering is required, and those who purchase a cookie package will be automatically entered into a raffle for Valentine’s-themed prizes.
From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., the Brock Library will host free Valentine’s card making. Attendees can drop in and use Makerspace supplies, included guided use of the circuit, to create a custom card or choose from one of the ready-made options available.
Later in the evening, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., BUSU will be offering free burgers at Union Station while supplies last.
Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without Taylor Swift, and the Brock Swift Society is hosting Loverfest: A Taylor Swift Valentine’s Craft Night from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in STH201. The event will feature colouring and crafts alongside a playlist of Taylor’s best Valentine’s hits. Free food will be provided, and all Swifties are encouraged to attend.
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While the lead-up to reading week can feel longer with each passing day, the Valentine’s-themed events hosted by Brock’s incredible student run clubs offer a fun and expressive way to take your mind off school. They provide opportunities to share a little love with friends, significant others and most importantly, yourself.