We all know that Bishop’s University has a reputation as a party school, but there’s so much more to do in your free time beyond the nightlife. Whether you’re into art, music, the outdoors, or just looking for a fun way to unwind, there are plenty of activities to keep you engaged on and off campus. Below is my handy dandy list of some of the best ways to make the most of your time at BU!
The Art Lab
I had to put the Art Lab first on my list since I don’t think enough people know about this amazing space on campus. Tucked underneath the Foreman Gallery in the same building as the Centennial Theatre, the Art Lab is a community art studio that runs on donated materials, making it a great place to get creative. Although they offer special workshops at low prices, the Art Lab is most known for hosting Art Hives twice a week on Wednesdays from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM and Saturdays from 12:30 PM – 4:30 PM. These are free sessions that give attendees full access to all materials to work on whatever they please in the space. This place is stocked up too! Name a material and they probably have it, making the possibilities of what you can create endless.
Open Mic and Jam Events
Look no further than the Bishop’s University Music Society (BUMS) for your fill of music-related events, including open mic nights, jam sessions, and other social gatherings. The music department is a tight-knit but welcoming community, with most events open to all majors. Whether you’re a musician, a singer, or just love to enjoy live music, these events are a great way to meet like-minded people and experience BU’s vibrant music scene.
Hiking Trails
There’s no way you can attend Bishop’s University and not take in the stunning landscapes of the Eastern Townships. My number one fall activity has to be hiking up Mont-Orford for a picnic after the leaves have turned. It’s a steep one for sure, but the view at the top is the best reward. I recommend following the Bishop’s Outdoors Club as they host weekly adventures in the area, with opportunities for carpooling from campus!
Swimming in North Hatley
One of my favorite off-campus locations is the adorable lake town of North Hatley, located just 15 minutes from Lennoxville. This is a must-visit in September while the weather is still warm. I love spending an afternoon with my friends studying under the sun at the Recreation Society beach, which offers free access to the waterfront. It’s a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or a relaxing escape from campus life.
The Fab Lab
Another fantastic resource right on campus is the Fab Lab, located in Molson 111. This space offers free access to 3D printers, laser cutter machines, sewing machines, digital software, and more! There’s always a student facilitator around who can assist you with the equipment, making it incredibly accessible for all skill levels. I recently had a great first experience in the Fab Lab, working with Alannah, the current student facilitator, to make homemade block printing stamps out of wood using the laser cutter. You can stop by anytime during their hours on Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM.
Music and Drama Performances
If only I had known earlier just how strong our drama and music departments were! The Centennial Theatre and Turner Studios consistently have productions at least once a month, featuring performances from Bishop’s own talent. They always offer student pricing, making it affordable even on a tight budget. Some of my highlights so far include Spring Awakening (the spring musicals), the Bishop’s Charity Fashion Show, and the Rock/Pop show from the BU Singer Choir. I forgot how fun it is to take in a live show, especially when it features familiar faces from campus. This is a great way to switch up the vibe on a weekend evening!
Another quick mention is Musique Chez Nous, a concert series in the beautiful Bandeen Hall that brings in professional acts, including local musicians, guest artists, and university music professors. It’s an excellent way to experience live music without breaking the bank.
Sports Games
Despite having such a small student body, we sure know how to show our school spirit! And what better place for spirit than a BU sports game? As someone who has never been particularly into sports, I have to admit that there’s something about the energy at these games that makes them incredibly fun. It also helps that we’ve been absolutely dominating recently – shoutout to our women’s hockey team, who became U Sports National Champions this year!
Honorable Mention – BU Happy Hour Club
Although the Happy Hour Club hosts events at our campus bar, The Gait, many of their activities revolve around free and fun activities. Drinks are available for purchase, but they also offer free pop, juice, and popcorn, making it accessible for those who prefer a sober evening. This is one of my favorite ways to unwind after a busy day, with events like paint nights, trivia nights, and cookie decorating nights. Make sure to follow their Instagram for all the details!
Final Thoughts
There’s a lot to discover at Bishop’s once you start looking beyond our usual party reputation. Whether it’s getting creative, heading outdoors, or catching a show, there are plenty of ways to make fun and meaningful memories. Try something new, get involved, and make the most of your time on campus!
