Be social, from a distance.
I’m seriously missing my weekend strolls through Kensington Market right now.
As the weather gets warmer and the daylight hours get longer, the days self-isolating go by oh-so-much slower. However, FOMO is not a good reason to stop social distancing—boredom never cured a pandemic.
Luckily, countless brands and organizations have gotten creative in order to deliver the joys of summer remotely. So, if you have a free afternoon (which, let’s be honest, we all do), kick back and partake in one of these free, student-friendly, virtual events!
1. Live-streamed commencement ceremony
No one deserves to miss out on their graduation.
Class of 2020, we know the last few months have been hard. The world knows it, too—that’s why YouTube has put together Dear Class of 2020: the star-studded virtual graduation of your dreams.
Taking place June 6 at 3 p.m., Dear Class of 2020 will feature commencement addresses from Barack and Michelle Obama, guest appearances by Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez, and, of course, a symbolic cap toss.
Following the event, K-pop’s best, BTS will headline a graduation after-party featuring performances by Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion. And that only scratches the surface of Dear Class of 2020‘s celebrity lineup—the event promises appearances by everyone from Bill Gates to Jackie Aina.
So, graduates, use your household supplies to DIY a graduation cap, tune in to Dear Class of 2020 and allow the world to celebrate your accomplishments.
2. Instagram Live comedy shows
New York City-based comedian and queen of Twitter, Meg Stalter is lifting spirits everywhere with her Instagram Live comedy shows.
Stalter has taken to social media to hilariously embody niche characters—from suburban moms to uptown brunch ladies—for an audience of nearly 40,000. Her ability to a monologue about a Pottery Barn painting, and make it laugh-out-loud hysterical, makes her virtual shows a must-watch.
She goes live almost nightly—check her Instagram and Twitter for updates. After all, laughter is the best medicine.
3. Virtual escape room
Toronto Public Library (TPL) has the perfect activity for all you thrill-seekers: an online escape room!
On May 26 at 4 p.m., it’s up to you to help TPL retrieve the stolen key to a vault full of Toronto’s most precious relics. The first clue will be delivered via Instagram Live. Once you’ve solved it, DM or email your answer to TPL and you’ll receive the next puzzle.
Who knew thinking could be so much fun?
4. Facebook Live workouts
Planet Fitness has devised the perfect solution for everyone who misses getting their sweat on but doesn’t want to come up with their own home fitness plan.
Every night at 7 p.m., they broadcast a 15-30-minute “work-in” over Facebook Live. Sessions are varied in style and led by everyone from certified fitness instructors to celebrity athletes. The fitness franchise has also introduced themed classes, such as their ongoing Family Fun Saturdays.
Classes are available on the Planet Fitness Facebook page after the Livestream has ended—so, if you can’t make the 7 p.m. broadcasts, you can still join in the fun.
Traditional workouts aren’t your thing? No problem. Humber Athletics airs live yoga classes every week on Instagram! Check their feed for info on class times and get ready to re-energize.
5. Instagram Live makeup classes
Wherever you are in your makeup journey, celebrity makeup artist Camara Aunique has got your back.
The New York City-based beauty expert has finessed the faces of stars such as Ava DuVernay, Terry Crews and Angela Bassett. But, since red carpet events are cancelled for the foreseeable future, Aunique has decided to share her skills with you. She goes live on her Instagram every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5 p.m. to help you make makeup magic.
Pull out those palettes and get glowin’!
6. YouTube concerts
You know the saying. “A concert a day keeps the doctor away.” (That is how it goes—right?)
A Concert A Day is a program designed to uplift musicians during a time when attending concerts in person isn’t an option. Every day at 4 p.m., Pickathon uploads a full-length concert from their archives to their YouTube channel. Featured artists range from indie bands, like Built to Spill, to bigger names, like Mac DeMarco.
The initiative is sponsored by MusiCares, a non-profit organization that provides financial aid to musicians during times of need. So, when you attend one of A Concert A Day‘s virtual shows, you can jam out and help out. Win-win!
7. Facebook Live zoo tours
The Toronto Zoo‘s 5,000 animal inhabitants are self-isolating too.
But, although the zoo is closed indefinitely, its dedicated keepers want to satisfy your furry friend fixation. Through Facebook Live broadcasts, the zoo is teaching you all about the various species who call it home.
A zookeeper goes live every day at 1 p.m. to introduce you to a quarantined critter. It’s like Planet Earth in real life. Need we say more?
Posted by The Toronto Zoo on Wednesday, May 13, 2020
It’s still possible to have summer fun while stopping the spread. With this list of virtual events, you can make the most of your time indoors.
Remember: you aren’t stuck at home, you’re safe at home.
When you need to unplug, check out IGNITE’s list of the best summer reads for students.
Follow IGNITE on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for all things student life.
