Emily Fritz | a&e editor

New Year’s resolutions are always a mixed bag. There are those who overpromise a whole new personhood by next Christmas, and those who reject the idea entirely.

Regardless of what you choose, the start of the spring semester is finally here, and with it the promise of the Steel City — whether you’re looking for something to help you reinvent yourself, something reminiscent of the freshly passed time-off or for something to help you hibernate.

Ice Skating at PPG Ice Rink – Winter Hours through March 2

There aren’t many perks to the colder weather, but the PPG Ice Rink is always a fan favorite, even after the holidays have ended. To accommodate for the Christmas tree removal though, the rink will open an hour later than usual on January 10 and 11.

Rink admission for adults starts at $11 per person and skate rentals begin at $5. Self-serve single-use lockers are also available.

To mitigate crowds, online booking is available at http://www.therinkatppgplace.com. Additional fees apply to online ticketing.

‘Penguins on Parade’ at the Pittsburgh Zoo – until Feb. 23

If ice skating isn’t your jive, that’s okay. Between now and February 23, the Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium is hosting its weekly “Penguins On Parade” at 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Although it is included with general admission, the zoo does reserve the right to cancel the parade due to adverse conditions (weather related or otherwise).

If you aren’t able to see the tuxedo-wearing birds during your visit, you will still be able to view “Wild Illuminations,” a holiday themed lantern experience. For best viewing, additional ticketing is required for evening hours.

Pittsburgh Restaurant Week Winter 2025 – Jan. 13 to 19

With home-cooked meals far away, Pittsburgh Restaurant Week is ready to step-in. This season’s theme: “New Dishes for the New Year.”

Crafted to highlight the culinary diversity of the city, each of the venues will offer a dining deal or a prix-fixe menu. With dozens of locations participating, there is no shortage of options for picky eaters, comfort food, things you’ve never tried before and those on a budget.

For a list of restaurants and their offerings, visit http://www.pittsburghrestaurantweek.com. The website also offers a “Restaurant Roulette” function for indecisive diners. Some places may require reservations.

Igloo with a Twist – Various Dates & Times in January

If your friend group can’t decide on where to grab a bite, fret not. Instead, take up to seven guests with you to reserve an igloo at Solera Wine Co.

Complete with place settings, plush pillow seating and a weather-proof spot to stow your shoes, these cozy, heated bubbles are made even better by catering from Brie & Baskets, a luxury picnic curator.

The two-hour slots can be reserved online for $200 (though divided amongst eight people comes out to $25 per person) at eventbrite.com. Sunday reservations can accommodate three-hour soirées, but come with a $50 upcharge.

Creative Fitness – Various Locations & Class Times

For those hoping to move their bodies more this year, consistency can be a huge resolution killer. Aside from the typical weight-lighting and cardio regiment, the Steel City is rich with creative and unconventional ways to do a full-body workout.

Fitness With A Twist 2.0 is an inclusive studio that touts aerial silk and hoop classes on East Carson Street. New students can use a four-class pass priced around $12 per session.

Also in the South Side is ASCEND Climbing Gym, which comes complete with yoga, fitness training, slacklining and, of course, climbing programs.

Art Classes & Workshops — Various Dates & Times

Maybe instead of finding a new way to move your body, you’re looking for a new way to create. If you’re looking to invest in a new skill, the Pittsburgh Center for Arts & Media is the place to be.

From ceramics and sculpture to fiber and media art, the center offers a variety of course start dates, some starting as soon as January 13. Student discounted memberships are available at $30 per year, with additional discounts for classes, camps, open studios and workshops.

More information can be found online at http://www.pghartsmedia.org, or by calling 412-361-0455

Totally Rad Vintage Fest – Jan. 10 to 12

New beginnings are seldom easy, and nostalgia can bring a lot of comfort as we step into the new calendar.

The Totally Rad Vintage Fest at the Monroeville Convention and Events Center is coming back to revive the joys of years past.

Vendors will showcase merchandise and memorabilia from the 80s onward, while a free-play vintage arcade and museum offers a glimpse back in time.

Admission starts at $8 if purchased in advance online and increases to $12 for those who opt to pay in-person.