It hasn't been an overly cold winter, so this weekend's frigid temperatures may be a bit of a shock for some, but it's no reason to stay inside.

You could take in Friends and Lovers, an art show looking at relationships and experiences, at Button Factory Arts in Waterloo Friday night.

There's a family hike at Laurel Creek Conservation Area in Waterloo Saturday afternoon (dress for the weather!). It's Skate Night, Date Night at Waterloo's Rim Park Saturday evening. Tickets include dinner, entertainment by local musicians and, of course, skating.

The Practically Hip are also playing Rhythm and Brews in Cambridge. The Friday show is sold out, but call the brewery to reserve Saturday tickets.

And you can belt out some tunes with Punk Rock Karaoke with Patty O'Lantern at TWB Co-operative Brewing in Kitchener Friday night.

Winter Porch Party

12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18

Kitchener Public Library, central branch, 85 Queen St. N., Kitchener

There's no better way to rid yourself of the winter blues than with music.

Join local musicians and singer-songwriters like Twas Now, Jonathan Knight and Safe as Houses in the KPL reading lounge for this afternoon of music.

Chinese New Year

2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18

Waterloo Public Library, John M. Harper branch, 500 Fischer-Hallman Rd. N., Waterloo

It's a bit early, as Chinese New Year is Jan. 25, but get in the spirit with some crafts, activities and live performances. Members of the Waterloo Region Chinese Canadian Association will be on hand, too.

There's also a Chinese New Year Cultural Day at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum Saturday afternoon. The event includes a fashion show, calligraphy lessons, language lessons, a dragon dance and learning about zodiac animals.

Rainbow Chorus Concert

2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 19

St. James Anglican Church, 520 Ellis Rd., Cambridge

The theme of the concert is "I Choose Love" and there will be songs of choices, growth and change. More than 40 singers will be directed by Alison MacNeill and accompanied by Chris Fischer.

The Rainbow Chorus is made up of members of all genders, sexualities and gender expressions and their purpose is to create a supportive community in song while having fun.

Sips for Snips

12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18

Royal City Brewing Company, 199 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph

Join local vendors for adults and dogs alike and enjoy some beer and a bite to eat at this fundraising event.

The brewery is hosting the event along with Save Our Scruff, which will be doing a spay and neuter clinic in Cambodia in March.

Winter Carnival

12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18

Schneider Haus, 466 Queen St. S., Kitchener

Check out the snow sculpture competition, winter games and taffy on the snow at this event.

Also meet the museum's artist-in-residence and learn about traditional folk art like hand embroidery and block printing.