Winter Guide 2015

ILLUSTRATION BY MEGHAN MURPHY

Now that we're past the holidays — and maybe you're still trying to stick to those New Year's resolutions — what is there to look forward to until spring? More snow? The strategic battle against frostbite? We say there's still quite a bit to be excited about during the first few months of 2015.

Rochesterians are hardy; we know how to thrive during the cold. So look around: there are still many opportunities to distract you from the chill. This annual Winter Guide is packed with ideas on how to make the most of the next three months.

Looking for opportunities to get out of the house? Turn to page 16 for a list of 15 significant events happening in the first few months of 2015.

If you're tired of eating leftovers, check out page 8 for five area restaurants serving up can't-miss, comforting meals. Along those same lines, look to page 4 for five drinks that will warm your bones.

As much as we wish it weren't true, the snow is inevitable and there will be days you dread leaving the house. Why not stock up on a few tabletop games to play with friends on the days the weather is at its worst? Check page 10 for a roundup on locally produced games and a few area groups who can teach you how to play.

There are also opportunities in Rochester to expand your creativity. On page 12, we talked with several local teachers about the arts classes they teach.

What are you looking forward to this winter? Let us know at rochestercitynewspaper.com. -- Jake Clapp

click to enlarge

ILLUSTRATION BY MEGHAN MURPHY

click to enlarge

ILLUSTRATION BY MEGHAN MURPHY

In This Guide...

Winter Guide

Imbibe to revive

Five drinks to keep you warm as the weather gets frightful

It's that time of year when we're all looking for warm indulgences to combat the winter cold. Thankfully, Rochester has no shortage of such offerings.

By NICOLE MILANO Jan 21, 2015

2015 Winter Drinks Pour Coffee Boulder Coffee The Old Toad Happy Earth Tea Java's Slideshow
Winter Guide

Warm comforts

While the winter months brings the chills, these comforting dishes will warm the spirits.

Comfort food means different things to different people, but there are some common denominators: As with my attachment to pizza at The Varsity (which I ate with alarming frequency while attending Syracuse University), there is usually a sentimental or nostalgic element to comfort food. It is often described as hearty or warming, both physiologically and emotionally — especially here in the northern latitudes.

By Dave Budgar Jan 21, 2015

2015 Comfort Foods Thali of India Fox's Deli Pang Zi American Hotel Tony D's
Winter Guide

Roll the dice

For me, the winter months have always been a time for hibernation, not exertion — I swear it's not lazy, it's just being sensible about surviving these long Rochester winters. All due respect to those participating in activities like the Polar Plunge, but I value my warmth and comfort a little too much to risk hypothermia.

By Adam Lubitow Jan 21, 2015

2015 Game Nights Tabletop Games Rochester Gaming Rochester Game Nights Millennium Games Rochester Boardgaming Society The Game Gamut
Winter Guide

Winter art academy

While many make the most of the short and chilly days by engaging in winter recreation, frolicking in the freezing snow isn't everyone's cup of tea. But hibernating with Netflix can get a bit depressing.

By Rebecca Rafferty Jan 21, 2015

2015 Teaching Artists Art tutors Sari Gaby Brian O'Neill Olivia Kim
Winter Guide

15 for 2015

Can't-miss events taking place this winter.

If you're already tired of staying inside this winter, City is here to help with a selection of 15 can't-miss events from the first quarter of 2015. Did we miss something especially exciting on your personal calendar?

By TREVOR LEWIS Jan 21, 2015