Not sure what to do over the summer? Here are some activities that can boost your mental and physical well-being. 

1. Transfer your health care 

Okay, this one isn't necessarily “fun,” but it’s still important to do if your healthcare plan has changed or you're heading out of town for the summer. This means you may need to transfer or change your primary care, mental health care, prescriptions and more.

�鶹��Ժ, staff and faculty can find in-network providers through the . You can also access programs like AcademicLiveCare to access free virtual health and counseling services or to explore therapy options near you.  

2. Join a summer sports league 

Get active and let your competitive side out by joining a summer sports league. The Rec Center offers a variety of summer intramural sports leagues, including basketball, tennis, pickleball, racquetball, jumbo volleyball and badminton. Summer Sports Passes are available for $10 and give you access to all summer leagues (summer Rec membership required).  

If you’re looking to get out into the community, you can also join local sports leagues like basketball, dodgeball, volleyball, kickball, softball and more. Here are some areas around Colorado that offer recreational adult leagues. 

If you’re not in Colorado, you can also search your local area for recreational sports league options. 

3. Catch up on your ‘to be read’ list 

Put those textbooks down and pick up a novel instead. Summer is a great time to unwind with a good book, catch up on your ‘to be read’ pile or experience the joy of reading for fun. You can find the perfect summer book by exploring the list or review-based platforms like .  

If you’re looking for personalized recommendations or free books, check out your local library or head over to Norlin. All CU students can check out books for free with your Buff OneCard. If you're a Colorado resident, you are also eligible for a free library card at any Colorado library. Books are available as hard copies or e-books through apps like .

4. Volunteer 

Volunteering in your community can give you a sense of connection, belonging and accomplishment (it can also help boost your resume). The best part is that most volunteer opportunities are flexible and cover a variety of areas, so you can find something that fits your schedule and your interests. If you’re looking to get involved, the Volunteer Resource Center (VRC) is a great place to get started! They provide a one-stop shop for opportunities that are open to students in the community and nearby.

5. Enjoy Free Days or a Culture Pass 

Did you know you can visit local cultural attractions for free? That’s right. Denver hosts a variety of throughout the summer that allow you to enjoy the zoo, museums, botanic gardens and more at no cost.  

If there’s an attraction you’d like to visit, but you missed the Free Day, that’s okay. Most Colorado libraries offer Cultural or Adventure Passes for free to cardholders! Passes typically need to be booked in advance, so plan your trip early!  

If you’re out of state over the summer, check with your local libraries to see if they offer similar deals. Many areas have similar perks and experiences available. 

6. Sign up for a race 

Get active and work towards one of your fitness goals by training for an upcoming race or competition. If you’re not feeling athletic, don’t worry. Many events aren’t competitive or don’t have time limits, so you can go at your own pace and still have fun.  

Here are some opportunities you can look forward to around Colorado. 

 | Friday, Aug. 2 and Saturday, Aug. 3 
This challenging but scenic run weaves through Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Courses include a 5K and half marathon. 

 | Saturday, Aug. 3 
Join community running clubs for a multi-lap race around Pearl Street. Heats are based on running time, so you can join groups that are at a similar pace. 

Buffalo Bicycle Classic | Sunday, Sept. 8 
Looking to go biking? The largest scholarship fundraising ride is coming to CU Boulder. This event offers a variety of distances ranging from 14 to 100 miles.  

7. Enjoy local traditions 

Colorado summers are full of fun traditions big and small. Grab a friend and head outside to celebrate the summer season with festivals, markets, events and more! Here are a few things to check out around Colorado.

Markets

•  (Boulder and Longmont) 
•  
•  (Lakewood, Highlands Ranch and Littleton) 
•  (Denver) 
•  (Aurora) 
•  (Fort Collins) 
• t (Estes Park) 

Events

•  (Red Rocks, Morrison) 
•  (Denver) 
•  (Red Rocks, Morrison) 
•  (Denver) 
•  (Boulder) 
•  (Estes Park) 
•  (Boulder) 
•  (Boulder)

Festivals

•  (Boulder) 
•  (Boulder) 
•  (Greeley) 
•  (Crested Butte) 
•  (Steamboat Springs) 
•  (Denver) 
•  (Loveland) 
•  (Larkspur) 

8. Plan a camping trip 

Colorado is great for camping, no matter where you live. This summer, try to plan a trip to get into the great outdoors with friends or family. You can explore nearby campgrounds and make . Just be sure to book ahead to secure your spot or plan to get up early for first-come, first-served campsites.  

If you don’t have gear or are missing some essentials, Outdoor Pursuits at the Rec Center has outdoor equipment rentals available (no membership required). Rental items include tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, stoves, bear cannisters, cook sets, camping chairs, coolers and more. They also have rentals available for water sports and rock climbing for additional adventures.

Resources 

If you’re planning to join in on outdoor activities, be sure to bring water and sun protection. You can also connect with a wide variety of health and wellness resources over the summer. 

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One of the best things about college is that you have access to a TON of free resources, activities and support.

Be sure to take advantage of these ten free wellness activities before you graduate.

1. Sign up for a free nutrition consultation

Meet with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) for a free consultation to answer your general nutrition questions, and discuss things like eating habits, meal planning, sports nutrition, lifestyle changes and more. Sessions are available at the Nutrition Resource Clinic in the Main Student Recreation Center on campus. 

If you have private health insurance, you can attend up to two consultation sessions for free each semester. �鶹��Ժ with the CU Boulder Anthem Gold Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) can access additional nutrition counseling services for free.  

Learn more about nutrition services

2. Get free, same day mental health support

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers a wide variety of same-day support, including: 

• Drop-in screenings: Stop by the CAPS office in the C4C (N352) during drop-in hours to speak with one of their counselors for free. They’ll be able to connect you with a variety of mental health services on and off campus.  
• Let’s Talk: Need to talk through something? Join CAPS at a variety of campus locations for a free, informal conversation. All Let’s Talk sessions are confidential and you can attend as many as you’d like throughout the semester. 
• Workshops: CAPS workshops are a great free way to learn how to manage stress and anxiety, learn about mindfulness, practice meditation and address topics like climate change.  
• Groups: Are you looking to improve your social skills or learn how to cope with a specific concern? Consider joining one of the many free therapy groups CAPS offers. 

Learn more about CAPS

3. Take a snooze in a nap pod

Feeling groggy or tired between classes?  

Stop by one of the Relaxation Stations on campus . Each location has two nap pods that will lull you to sleep with a comfortable cushioned seat, customized sleep playlists and a gentle waking sequence. No reservation required, just drop by. 

Nap pod locations: 

• Main Student Recreation Center (main floor) 
• Wellness Suite in Wardenburg Health Center (3rd floor) 
• Norlin Library (1st floor) 
• Gemmill Engineering, Mathematics and Physics Library (basement) 

Learn more about nap pods

4. Get moving at Free Friday Power Hour

Kickoff the weekend with free group fitness classes at the Rec Center! Classes vary from week to week, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try something new or stick to what you love. 

Free Friday Power Hour is open to all Rec Center members with an active Buff OneCard. No registration required.  

Learn more about free classes

5. Reach your goals with Peer Wellness Coaching

Need help connecting with others on campus or meeting your academic goals? 

Peer wellness coaches are fellow students who are available to help you identify your goals, connect with campus resources and take steps to achieving them! Coaching is available for free to all undergraduate and graduate students. 

Topics include: 

• Finances 
• Academics 
• Relationships 
• Self-care 
• Time management 
• Careers 
• Sleep 

Learn more about peer wellness coaches

6. Have fun with Inclusive Rec

The Rec offers free inclusive events to help students build an inclusive, welcoming and fun community on campus. They host a variety of activities throughout the semester for all identities, abilities and fitness levels. 

Join them to meet new people, try something new or put yourself out there in a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere.  

Learn more about Inclusive Recreation

7. Get ready to get busy

Looking to hookup with a new partner or crush?  

Be sure to stop by the free condom bar to pick up a variety of safer sex supplies, like condoms, dental dams, lube and more. Supplies are located near the Sexual and Reporductive Health office on the first floor of Wardenburg Health Center. �鶹��Ժ are welcome to take what they want, no questions asked. 

Learn more about sexual health

8. Boost your resume

Looking to stand out on job applications? 

Health and Wellness Services provides a number of free training opportunities for students to build and practice new skills related to health and wellness topics.  

You can even earn a non-degree certificate by attending five training sessions as part of the WellCU series. 

Learn more about trainings

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Looking for something to do on Valentine’s Day? Here are some activities you can enjoy with friends, by yourself or with someone you love.

For couples...

Use Valentine’s Day to focus on strengthening your relationship and feeling more connected (without breaking the bank).

Recreate your first date. Think back to the first day (or night) you met. What did you do? Where did you go? Make plans to recreate your first date together. If you met your significant other in the summer when the weather was warmer, get creative about how you can adapt your date for the snow.

Make a bucket list. Create a bucket list of things you’d like to do together this year. Consider things you can do now, a few months from now or in the distant future. This can be a great way to get to know your partner better and have fun planning future adventures together.

Find out your love language. Each of us gives and receives affection in different ways. Learning about your love languages can help you and your partner explore ways to make each other feel more connected and loved. It can also help you get to know the other person better. You can find out what your love language is by .

For friends…

Celebrating Valentine’s Day with your bros or BFFs can be a fun way to show gratitude for the people that have been by your side through thick and thin.

Go sledding. Take this opportunity to enjoy the snow and head outside for some good old fashioned sledding! The best spots in Boulder include Scott Carpenter Park, Harlow Platts Community Park and Chautauqua (designated areas only).

Set up a secret cupid exchange. If you enjoy white elephant gifts, it may be time to try a secret cupid exchange. The premise is the same: draw names and select a small gift ($5 to $10) for that person. Gifts can be themed or something simple you think your secret cupid would enjoy. Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to be silly!

Enjoy a tasting party or potluck. Treat yourself (and your friends) to a delicious meal by hosting a potluck or tasting party. You can make it extra special by following a Valentine’s Day theme, including heart-shaped foods, red and pink foods only or dishes you each love.

For singles…

Being single on Valentine’s Day can be tough for some people. However, it can also give us an opportunity to treat ourselves and focus on our own needs.

Spend time on self-care. While self-care should be a part of our everyday routine, try to spend time today going all in on activities that make you feel your best. You can get a mani/pedi, have an at-home spa day, spend your afternoon outside or simply enjoy some rest and recovery.

Send valentines to your friends or family. Spread the love and practice gratitude by sending valentines to your friends or family members. You can also get crafty by creating your own cards or opt to send letters instead. Be sure to let the people in your life know that you are thinking of them and that you are grateful for all they have done for you.

Treat yourself to a fancy dinner. Avoid splitting the bill by treating yourself to a nice dinner. You can opt for a new home-cooked recipe or skip a night of dishes by ordering your favorite takeout.

Campus events

Join the Center for Student Involvement to pick up free candy and write letters to your friends at the UMC.

Monday, Feb. 13

Join Health Promotion to learn ways to cultivate self-compassion and follow an easy meditation to increase kindness towards yourself and others.

Monday, Feb. 13

Practicing gratitude is good for both your mental and physical health. Who are you feeling grateful for this week? Stop by and write a gratitude post card to someone, and we'll send it anywhere you want!

Tuesday, Feb. 14

Take time out of your week to relax and craft with your peers. DIY Nights are a great way to engage with others while participating in a fun craft project.

Tuesday, Feb. 14

Body Image Awareness at The Rec

Each year the Recreation Center hosts free events and activities throughout February in honor of Body Image Awareness Month. Show yourself some love by participating in this year's events, including nutrition talks, body image workshops, free fitness classes and more.

Community events

Your favorite Denver haunted house is getting a Valentine’s makeover. The same thrills and chills of the Halloween season but with a lover’s twist. Forget dates of Valentine’s Day past to experience something new this year.

February 17 to 19

Looking for love? Got love? Forgone love entirely? Join this interactive drag show at Meow Wolf!

February 14 and 15

Visit the Denver Art Museum (DAM) for free to enjoy art, on-site activities and exhibitions. Tickets may be reserved in advance.

Tuesday, Feb. 14

See hundreds of exotic blooms, including rare orchids from the Gardens’ collection. The Showcase is a great idea for a Valentine’s Day activity. Included with admission to the Gardens. The Showcase is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. in the Orangery.

Saturday, Feb. 18

Follow  on social for more tips, events and activites.

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Recreation Services is excited to announce that they will be offering a variety of new programs this semester! Check out all the new things coming to The Rec.

New small group training programs

Small group training classes allow you to work closely with a personal trainer. These groups are a great way to work toward specific goals and meet new people, who you can workout with each week.

Buffs Bootcamp

Learn how to achieve your fitness goals and get motivated to move. This class will focus on cardio goals, dynamic movements, basic weightlifting and mental resilience. All experience levels, gender identities and goals are welcome.

Locomotion

This class covers cartwheels, bridging and low-gait movements. Participants should be prepared for a physically engaging class. We’ll teach you how to step outside your comfort zone and embrace your body’s capabilities. All experience levels and gender identities are welcome.

Yoga for Holistic Wellness

Explore the connection between your body and your mind during this focused yoga practice. This class builds on skills each week, allowing you to develop a practice that will benefit your physical and mental well-being. All experience levels and gender identities are welcome.

New facilities

The Main Student Recreation Center is currently undergoing renovations to provide a new functional fitness space that will include an additional mat room, F45, CrossFit and more.

Learn more about the project

New inclusive events

Inclusive Rec provides opportunities for students of all identities and abilities to enjoy recreational activities, build community and enhance wellbeing. 

Adaptive Fitness Training Series

Learn how to incorporate adaptive training into your cardio, strength and stretching routines. This program will focus on a different area of training each session. Participants will have an opportunity to work with a personal trainer to receive individualized instruction and ideas for implementing new techniques into their own workout programs. No previous experience is required. Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance.

Sit Volleyball

Challenge yourself to a game of sitting volleyball. While similar to standing volleyball, sitting volleyball provides a completely new experience in a game you might be more familiar with. All abilities are welcome, no experience necessary. No registration required.

Join the fun: Friday, Feb. 17 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Up/Down Tennis

Enjoy a new style of tennis by playing up/down tennis! Participants will have the opportunity to compete and play together as one partner utilizes a sport wheelchair and the other stands. All abilities are welcome, no experience necessary. Equipment is included. No registration required.

Join the fun: Thursday, Apr. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

More programs to check out

Outdoor Pursuits

Outdoor Pursuits offers a variety of trips, courses and events to help you enjoy the great outdoors!

Sport Clubs

CU Boulder has over 30 sport club teams on campus! Sign up to play and compete with other universities. 

Intramural Sports

Looking for friendly competition? Sign up for intramural sports! Leagues are available twice per semester. You can sign up as a solo agent or as a team.

Fitness and Wellness

Fitness and Wellness offers a variety of programs, including group fitness classes, specialized courses and personal training services.

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Need something to do over the summer? Here are a few unique things to check out in Colorado.

Catch a drive-in movie

Most of Colorado’s drive-in movie theaters are open seasonally, which means summer is a great time to catch a flick on the big screen.

If it’s your first time attending a drive-in movie, be sure to follow instructions from attendants. Vehicles are typically organized based on size, so smaller cars are closest to the screen and larger trucks and SUVs are farther back. You will need to tune your radio to a specific station to listen to the sound. If you have any questions about what to expect, call the theater before your visit!

 Fort Collins, CO

• Movies: Adult and kids, two movies per ticket
• Concessions: Burgers, hot dogs, nachos, snacks, sides, popcorn
• Tickets: $9/adult

 Commerce City, CO

• Movies: Adult and kids, one movie per ticket
• Concessions: Burgers, pizza, sides, snacks, desserts, soft drinks, popcorn
• Tickets: $10/adult

 Pueblo, CO

• Movies: Adult only, two movies per ticket
• Concessions: Burgers, sides, soft drinks, hot dogs, desserts, popcorn
• Tickets: $11/adult

Visit a national park

Colorado is home to four national parks. Only a handful of other states have more national parks than Colorado, including Alaska, California and Utah.

If you don’t have an annual parks pass, you can check one out using your local library card or pay for daily admission. Be sure to check out park sites in advance, as some may still require reservations. You can also visit Outdoor Pursuits at the Rec Center for maps, trip planning, tips and equipment rentals. 

 Estes, CO

Rocky Mountain National Park is the fourth most-visited park in the U.S.

It offers a variety of hiking, biking, camping and other recreational opportunities.

The park is best known for its stunning alpine lakes, waterfalls, mountainous terrain and unbeatable views.

 Mosca, CO

The Great Sand Dunes is one of the most geologically unique parks in Colorado.

It offers a variety of hiking, camping, horseback riding and other recreational activities.

The park is best known for its large sand dunes, remote location, seasonal river flow and beautiful mountain backdrop.

 Montrose, CO

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Colorado.

While the park has more limited options, visitors can still enjoy scenic drives, short hikes, fishing and kayaking (with permits) and more.

The park is best known for its steep canyon walls and striking rock features.

 Cortez, CO

With over 4,000 archaeological sites, Mesa Verde will teleport you back to Ancestral Puebloan life.

It offers self-guided driving tours, interactive displays and dig sites, as well as camping and hiking trails.

The park is best known for its ancient cliff dwellings and archeological wonders.

Attend seasonal festivals

Whether you enjoy food, music, parades or live entertainment, there’s bound to be an annual festival for you in Colorado this summer. Here are just a few fan favorites you should check out.

 Boulder, CO
 June 5-August 7

Since 1958, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival has taken center stage for multiple performances of some of Shakespeare’s best plays. It’s held on varying days on the CU Boulder campus. Ticket information is available online.

 Larkspur, CO
 June 18-August 7

The Renaissance Festival is held over eight weekends throughout the summer in Larkspur (between Denver and Colorado Springs). Take a trip back to medieval times with elaborate costumes, artisan crafts, food and more. Ticket information is available online.

 Greeley, CO
 June 24-July 4

The Greeley Stampede is an annual summer event that boasts concerts, rodeos, demolition derbies, carnivals, fireworks and much more. Event parking and ticket information is available online. 

 Denver, CO
 June 25-26

PrideFest is a free two-day festival that celebrates LGBTQ+ communities across Colorado. The celebration includes a 5K, pride parade, food and beverage vendors, local businesses and fun activities for all.

Stop by a roadside attraction

While Colorado may not be known for having the largest potato or ball of yarn, there are plenty of fun roadside attractions to visit this summer. Plan some time to visit these weird and wonderful creations or make them a pitstop on your next road trip.

 Rye, CO

Located south of Pueblo, Bishop Castle is an impressive structure that took almost 60 years to complete. The design includes bridges, towers and a fire-breathing dragon to boot.

 Fort Collins, CO

If you’re a fan of folk art, Swetsville Zoo is a must-stop roadside attraction. This art exhibit features nearly 180 metal sculptures made from scraps, car parts and machinery and is open all year round.

 Morrison, CO

This quirky attraction showcases over 100 buildings that make up Tiny Town. It’s a great detour for anyone heading to or from the mountains and has been open to the public since 1920.

Seasonal reminders

Keep in mind that Colorado summers can be hot, dry and unpredictable. Help keep yourself and our communities safe by following these general guidelines.

Fire dangers

Wildfires have become common in Colorado, and the summer season is especially high risk. You can help protect natural lands, neighborhoods and more by following a few simple tips.

• Regularly check  in your area.
• Avoid lighting campfires whenever possible, especially in dry areas.
•  and pose a risk for fires.

Hydration

High elevation and dry weather can lead to dehydration, especially in the mountains. Follow these tips to stay safe and hydrated this summer.

• Drink 32 ounces of water every 2 hours.
• Opt to exercise or recreate in shady areas or go earlier in the day to avoid high sun.
• Only drink potable water (bring your own or use a filtering system).
• Ensure you have enough water for you and any pets.

Sun protection

300 days of sunshine combined with high altitude makes Colorado a great spot to catch a sunburn. Minimize your risks with these tips.

• Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outside (available at the ).
• Reapply sunscreen every 1-2 hours.
• Wear protective clothing (sunglasses, hat, long-sleeved shirts) while outdoors.

Leave No Trace

Leave No Trace principles help minimize our impact on the outdoors. Here are some ways you can help protect our parks and wildlife this summer.

• Read posted signs and follow all current regulations and restrictions.
• Stay off of trails that are closed or under construction.
• Pick up trash you see and avoid leaving litter behind (including dog waste bags).
• Keep dogs on-leash.

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Calling all fans of The Great British Baking Show! Get ready to celebrate Pi Day with these handshake-worthy recipes.

On your marks, get set… bake!

Michael’s chocolate chip cookies 

This classic recipe only takes 30 minutes to make and doesn’t require a mixer. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and roommates, or you can enjoy them all by yourself.

   Level: Easy
  ​&�Բ�����;Prep: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
   Bake: 15 minutes

Frances’s vegan blueberry pie in the sky

If you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite, this sweet blueberry and lemon tart is a great bake to try. You can also easily simplify the recipe by using pre-made pastry or pie crust from the store.

  ​&�Բ�����;Level: Moderate
  ​&�Բ�����;Prep: 45 minutes
  ​&�Բ�����;Bake: 45 minutes

Vegan chocolate brownies

If you love rich, fudgy brownies, you’re bound to fall in love with this vegan version of a much-loved classic. It’s also a great option to try if you want to impress your friends or convince them to eat more vegan-friendly foods. 

  ​&�Բ�����;Level: Easy
  ​&�Բ�����;Prep: 20 minutes
  ​&�Բ�����;Bake: 25 to 30 minutes

David’s vanilla sponge cake

David took home the ultimate title in the tenth season of The Great British Baking Show. Needless to say, this recipe is delicious and surprisingly foolproof. If you’re looking to test out some classic British bakes at home, this recipe is a great place to start!

  ​&�Բ�����;Level: Easy
  ​&�Բ�����;Prep: 30 minutes
  ​&�Բ�����;Bake: 20 to 25 minutes

Prue Leith’s apple and cinnamon buns

Traditional yeasted cinnamon rolls can be tedious and time consuming to make. Prue’s simplified version is not only quick and easy but delicious. Plus, we just can’t say no to a mix of sweet apples and crunchy pecans.

  ​&�Բ�����;Level: Easy
  ​&�Բ�����;Prep: 30 minutes
  ​&�Բ�����;Bake: 20 to 25 minutes

Nutrition resources

Nutrition Services

Nutrition Services provides comprehensive nutrition counseling for CU Boulder students, including free consultations, nutrition assessments, disordered eating support, resources and more.

Dining Services

Dining Services offers dietary accommodations for food allergens, halal, kosher, vegan and vegetarian diets. They also have a registered dietitian (RD) on staff to help students navigate food options and eat a balanced diet.

Nutrition articles

Check out previous Health and Wellness articles related to nutrition, meal planning and easy recipes for every occasion. 

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Spring break is a great time to catch up on shows, read something fun or simply relax on the couch. Here are some recommendations to check out if you enjoy…

Historical fiction

Calling all history buffs (pun intended). If you’re interested in the past and how small acts could have resulted in a very different future, these recommendations are for you.

Book

Title: Violeta
Author: Isabel Allende

As Violeta del Valle approaches her hundredth birthday, she recounts the story of her life to her grandson, Camilo, beginning at the start of the Spanish flu and ending amidst the modern pandemic.

More titles: The Good Wife of Bath by Karen Brooks, Yonder by Jabari Asim, Daughters of a Dead Empire by Carolyn Tara O’Neil

Show

Title: The Great
Service: 

The Great recounts the (sometimes true) story of Catherine the Great as she rose from outsider to the longest-reigning female ruler in Russia’s history.

More titles: The Underground Railroad (Amazon Prime), Alias Grace (Netflix), Vikings (Hulu)

Movie

Title: The King
Service: 

In the aftermath of his brother’s death, a young Henry V encounters deceit, war and treachery as he ascends the throne to become the King of England during the 15th century.

More titles: The Physician (Amazon Prime), Midway (HBO), The Professor and the Madman (Netflix)

Suspense or thrillers 

If your Netflix list consists of serial killer documentaries, thrillers or suspense, these recommendations are for you. 

Book

Title: How High We Go in the Dark
Author: Sequoia Nagamatsu

An archeologist arrives at the Arctic Circle to continue the work of his recently deceased daughter only to find that the secrets held within the melting permafrost have been unleashed. 

More titles: Cultish by Amanda Montell, The Family Chao by Lan Samantha Chang, Notes on an Execution by Danya Kukafka

Show

Title: Archive 81
Service: 

Based on the podcast Archive 81. This supernatural, sci-fi mystery follows Dan Turner, a video archivist, as he restores a collection of videotapes belonging to a college student who disappeared over a decade ago. As Dan digs deeper into the origins and content of the tapes, he finds himself in the crosshairs of a sinister cult.

More titles: Station Eleven (HBO Max), Homecoming (Amazon Prime), Dark (Netflix)

Movie

Title: The Devil All the Time
Service: 

A young man in rural Ohio must combat corruption and brutality in order to protect the ones he loves most. This modern crime film follows the stories of saints and sinners as their lives intertwine with devastating consequences.

More titles: The Invisible Man (Netflix), Doctor Sleep (Hulu), Kimi (HBO Max)

Science fiction

If you’re a fan of rockets, robots or relativity, these recommendations are for you.

Book

Title: Mickey7
Author: Edward Ashton

Mickey7 is a disposable android on a human expedition to explore the ice world of Niflheim. After a mission gone wrong, Mickey7 finds his crew facing dire circumstances on the ice giant. 

More titles: Dead Silence by S.A. Barnes, The Institute by Stephen King, Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Show

Title: Raised by Wolves
Service: 

Two androids travel to a mysterious new world, tasked with building a future and raising human children in an attempt to escape religious persecution. As religious differences create mounting conflicts, the androids realize that attempting to temper human beliefs is a dangerous task. 

More titles: Devs (Hulu), Altered Carbon (Netflix), The 100 (Netflix)

Movie

Title: Annihilation
Service: 

Based on the book Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer. Lena, a biologist and ex-soldier joins an expedition team to uncover the secrets of “Area X” that is expanding across the coastline. However, as her team moves deeper into the unknown, they discover much more than they bargained for.

More titles: Tenet (HBO Max), Arrival (Hulu), The Martian (Hulu)

Romance

Whether you’re a helpless romantic or enjoy romantic comedies as a guilty pleasure, these recommendations are for you. 

Book

Title: Party of Two
Author: Jasmine Guillory 

Dating is the last thing on Olivia’s mind. She’s in the middle of moving and starting her own law firm when a chance meeting with a handsome stranger turns into a whirlwind affair that has everyone talking.

More titles: The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams, The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang, The Bright Side of Going Dark by Kelly Harms

Show

Title: High Fidelity
Service: 

Based on the novel High Fidelity by Nick Hornby. Robyn, a music connoisseur and record shop owner, attempts to navigate life after love by recounting her five biggest breakups. One night she bumps into her recent ex-fiancé (and his new partner) sending Robyn into what can only be described as a tailspin.

More titles: Love (Netflix), Pam & Tommy (Hulu), Virgin River (Netflix)

Movie

Title: The Big Sick
Service: 

This movie is based on the true story of Kumail, a Pakistani comedian, who meets a graduate student, Emily, at one of his stand-up shows. Their relationship quickly spirals as Kumail faces arranged marriage proposals and Emily’s health leaves her in a coma.

More titles: About Time (Netflix), Crazy Rich Asians (HBO Max), Palm Springs (Hulu)

Fantasy

If you’ve been longing to cast a spell or escape to another world over break, these recommendations are for you. 

Book

Title: Black Leopard, Red Wolf
Author: Marlon James

What might happen when a mercenary adapts his keen hunting skills to track down a missing child? Drawing from African history and mythology, Marlon James examines the cost of truth, power and ambition.

Additional titles: The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson, Song of the Forever Rains by E.J. Mellow

Show

TV show: The Witcher
Service: 

The Witcher follows the story of a monster hunter, Geralt, who struggles to find his place between the worlds of beasts and men. As destiny unfolds, Geralt is hurled into the unknown alongside a young sorceress and princess whose gifts rival his own.

More titles: Shadow and Bone (Netflix), The Wheel of Time (Amazon Prime), His Dark Materials (Hulu)

Movie

Title: A Monster Calls
Service: 

Based on the book A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness. Connor’s mother has fallen gravely ill and his father is nowhere to be found. As Conor navigates the troubles of the world alone, he comes across an unlikely ally when a monster appears in his bedroom window one night.

More titles: Princess Mononoke (HBO Max), The Spiderwick Chronicle (Netflix)

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