Happy Holidays!

Winter is here again, and so is our Festive Edition of your Weekly What’s On! We’re bringing you all the fun things we’ve found to get you in the festive spirit and keep you entertained over winter break. Remember to wrap up warm if you are braving the winter chill, to check in on your friends and family and to use this time to recuperate after a busy start to the academic year. 

We know our absence will be greatly missed over the next few weeks, but we hope our guide to local festivities and online events will tide you over until RE-FRESHERS! Whether you are travelling home or staying close to campus, Team UCASU wishes you all a safe and warm holiday season.

HOST UK

Calling International Students! For those unable to travel home this winter, there is still time to sign up to HOST UK; spend the day or a weekend with a British host family, learning about their culture and traditions whilst sharing yours. For a home away from home this Holiday Season, sign up soon for a Festive visit – UCA have your application fee covered!

WINTER MARKETS

There is still time to find that perfect gift or even inspire one, remember to check out your local festive markets- The perfect excuse to wrap up warm and leave the house, to support small businesses and local creators this holiday season. You’ll find markets up and down the country throughout December, most have no entry fee and are a great excuse to get to know your local area or explore somewhere new. So stretch those legs, or brush off your wheels, and see what festive treats you can find!

KENT

SURREY

PANTO/THEATRE

It's panto season! Support your local theatres and embrace your inner child with a good ol’ fashioned British Pantomime or be dazzled by the beauty and elegance of a traditional Ballet. There are plenty of Festive shows to choose from: the perfect afternoon or evening out with family and friends.

Don’t forget to check if your chosen theatre offers Student and Youth Discounts- It’s the best way to save on theatre tickets!

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LONDON

ONLINE

Don’t Fancy leaving the warmth and comfort of your home? We don’t blame you- it can get pretty chilly here in the UK, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on some festive cheer and community. Stay cosy and join some great crafting sessions from the comfort of your sofa, or explore places without putting your shoes and coat on. We’ve picked some noteworthy online events happening this season!

WORKSHOPS & CLASSES

TALKS & TOURS

MORE LOCAL FESTIVE FUN

From days out at heritage and wildlife sites to visiting your local library there are so many ways to stay entertained without travelling far. Enjoy festivities this winter with themed walking trails and community gatherings, where everyone is welcome. We highly recommend looking up your local area to see what's on offer; local Facebook groups and notice boards, or a quick Google search, are a great place to start. Drop in on your local churches, temples, mosques, and community halls; check what volunteering opportunities are available or simply gather your friends and peers to welcome the new year in.

KENT

SURREY

Your Student's Union will be closed from MON 18 DEC 2023, re-opening TUE 2 JAN 2024. If you find you need academic or wellbeing support, UCA will be open until FRI 22 DEC, Where you can still access the Gateway Services for your campus. Our UCASU Knowledge Base is also full of useful advice and guidance, from wellbeing to mitigating circumstances. 

While both UCASU and UCA are closed over Winter Break you can still access the Spectrum. Life 24.7 Student Support platform for confidential in-the-moment support for both personal and university-related issues.

Again Team UCASU wishes you all a Happy Holiday,

Stay Safe, Stay Warm and we’ll be back in the new year with REFRESHERS!