Is this winter dragging you down? Are you finally ready to give up? If so, then these events are perfect to thaw your weary heart. They are interesting and close to home, making them perfect for a college student on a budget.

Sex (yeah, you heard me)

NDSU Health Promotion is hosting “Sextival: A Sexual Health Festival and Free STI Testing” from 1 to 4 p.m. Feb 27. The event will not only include what the Facebook page calls a “sex festival,” but also free testing for sexually transmitted infections.

The STI testing will be offered on a first come, first serve basis, and the organizers said attendees should be prepared to wait if there is high traffic. They also warn that participants should not urinate an hour prior to the tests because it could interfere with checking for chlamydia and gonorrhea. The results will not be given at the event, and any further visits or medications needed are the responsibility of the students, according to NDSU Health Promotion.

That good soil

North Dakota State’s environmental sustainability committee will be hosting the “Composting Panel Discussion” 11:30 a.m. March 6 in the Century Theater. The event is featured on the committee’s homepage, mentioning that the event is a way for people to “get started composting at home with help from our panelists.”

According to the committee, composting is a good way to “reduce your garbage bill and move your household closer to zero waste, and that “Environmental sustainability is important at North Dakota State University to preserve precious natural resources and save money”

The committee was recently formed by the Staff Senate at NDSU.

Mid-winter care

The North Dakota Humans Rights Coalition is hosting the “Legislative Crossover & Mid-Winter Gathering” from 5 to 7 p.m. Feb 25 at the Hotel Donaldson. According to the Facebook event page, “State representatives will be on hand to share the latest updates about important bills transitioning between chambers.”

The page suggests that attendees “engage in essential discussions, network to meet new friends and supporters and help us send our local representatives back to Bismarck with a renewed sense of energy.” There is a suggested donation of $50 to contribute to the Human Rights Coalition.

Moorhead Dairy Queen

Yes, the outdoor Dairy Queen in Moorhead, Minnesota is opening to the public March 1. The historical franchise location has been open since 1949, and according to the creamery’s website, it has been a favorite among locals. Find your one friend with a car and head on over for a sweet treat.