Mixing Out Blog

Category: Things To Do

Awesome Video Games You Can Do For Real With Your Friends

Everybody loves video games. That’s a proven fact conducted by scientists and monkeys. But unless you count getting thrashed by a 12-year-old Ugandan on Call Of Duty at two in the AM, it’s not the most social of activities.

Not anymore! We’ve put our heads together and come up with 3 awesome ways to enjoy video games FOR REAL with your mates. Some of them are even better than the originals. Here’s what we found:

Minecraft

Okay, this one is more popular with your nieces and nephews than it would be for you and your mates (although it is totally addicting). We can’t exactly imagine a lot of “spleef” talk down the pub.

Chances are, however, you’re already participating in a little real-life Minecraft without even knowing it. Okay, maybe you aren’t building forts out of sofa cushions anymore, but every time you exhibit a little one-upmanship in the DIY stakes (we’re thinking home cinema, outdoor pizza oven, games room etc.) you’re practically flexing your Minecraft muscles.

Resident Evil

It doesn’t matter who you are, everybody knows this zombie-slaying, shriek-inducing, trouser-staining video game series. And there’s nothing more satisfying than hearing that meaty crunch as you pop a shuffling corpse in the head. Yay!

Zombie Experience lets you and a group of friends enjoy the fun of apocalyptic carnage for real. Team up for the day and battle hordes of authentic-looking walking dead in all sorts of horror movie-inspired locations – live ammo not included.

Mario Kart

This classic is the stuff of childhood memories. It’s also our personal favourite on the list. We even have a copy of the original in the office!

What could be better than smashing your mate’s car with a gigantic red turtle shell? Well, you can’t quite go to those extremes with real-life Go Karting but it sure rivals any video game equivalent in every other aspect.

February 18, 2015
Social Downtime – Things to do this Autumn when you’re not out meeting friends

Sure, we all love going out and meeting friends but everybody needs a little “downtime” now and again; if only to recharge our batteries for that next big get-together. Not to mention the obvious fact that it’s starting to get very, very cold outside! Sometimes it feels good just to shut those blinds, pull on your grubbiest loungewear and settle-in for a lazy day on your lonesome… When you’re not too busy partying it up, that is.

Here’s our pick of cool things to keep you occupied this autumn when you’re busy not being busy:

True Detective Box Set, DVD/BluRay/iTunes

If this American drama passed you by when it originally aired earlier this year, then you can make up for it now by gorging on the entire eight-episode series in one calorific sitting. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star as two detectives following a string of disappearances and ritual killings in the deep-fried south.

Fargo Box Set, DVD/BluRay/iTunes

Inspired by the Coen Brother’s movie of the same name (if you haven’t already seen it then stick it on your viewing list this instant) this stand-alone series is equally brilliant.

If you like your humour “black” – as in a black hole consuming everything good and pure kind of way – then you’ll love this comedy/drama about crime and corruption in the quirky mid-western city of Fargo, North Dakota.

The Evil Within, PS3/PS4/XBOX 360/XBOX ONE

Shinji Mikami, creator of the original Resident Evil games and progenitor to the Survival Horror genre, helms this terrifying exploration into the unknown. You take control of Homicide cop Sebastian Castellanos and investigate a series of eerie goings on at a secluded mental hospital.

Fans of the genre will feel right at home here; atmospheric, slow-burning, and heavily puzzle-driven amongst the bursts of breakneck action. A very engaging single-player campaign for winding away those boring nights in.

October 29, 2014
Halloween Survival Guide, Part Two

You might be a bit too old for trick or treating but that shouldn’t stop you from going out and meeting friends this Halloween. October 31st is right around the corner and as part of our special Halloween Survival Guide, we’ve put together this list of things to do for all you guys who really want to get into the spirit of things.

Hospitality Halloween

What is it: A monster line-up of some of the best live music acts and DJ’s, at one of the city’s biggest venues.

Where is it: The O2 Academy, Crookridge Street, Leeds.

When is it: Friday October 31st from 10pm to 6am.

What to expect: Acts include the likes of drum & bass duo Camo & Krooked, Mia Dora and DJ Pete Graham. So you can expect to be up long after the dead have returned to their graves and a little worse for ware than any remaining zombies stumbling through the streets. If you want to secure entrance then book your tickets here.

The Sin Lounge, Halloween Special

What is it: A night of raving, dancing and scarily good music from House Nation. They’ll also be serving up some special Halloween-themed drinks, so you know you’re going to be in for a really good time!

Where is it: The Sun Lounge, Derby City Centre.

When is it: Saturday November 1st from 7pm to 3am.

What to expect: Banging tunes, great atmosphere and plenty of party revellers. An all-round epic night out for anybody who fancies a good time!

Halloween Story Walks

What is it: A lantern-lit stroll through Allestree with folklore storyteller, Sophie Snell. You’ll stop by some of the area’s creepiest, most haunted locations and hear all about their bloody history.

Where is it: Groups meet at Allestree Hall and progress through the gardens and grounds.

When is it: There’s two variations of this event. One taking place from 5pm and again at 6:30pm for families. And a later walk for adults at 8pm. All walks take place on Thursday October 30th.

What to expect: If you’ve never been on a ghost walk, they can be as entertaining as they are informative. Perfect if you and your friends are interested in folklore and scary goings on. Should make for interesting talk over a few drinks later that night!

Dancers Halloween Jam

What is it: A fancy dress party for everyone of all ages, so even you responsible parents out there can go out and have some fun while the kids are kept entertained. There’ll be karaoke, games, prizes for best costumes and even a photo room for spooky selfies.

Where is it: A little bit out of Derby, this one. The QMX Academy, Nottingham City Centre.

When is it: Friday October 31st from 7pm to 11pm. Bookings must be made before October 28th, so get on it here.

What to expect: Fun, friendly and easygoing. If you’re coming from Derby, with or without the kids in-tow, you’ll need to arrange transport. So don’t expect to be up all hours at this event.

October 24, 2014
Things to Do in Leeds This October: Meet Friends in The Dark

If you’re looking for something different to do and meet friends this October, we’ve found some very interesting events cropping up in Leeds this October.

Art in The Dark

What it is: The streets and buildings of Leeds will come alive this October with more than 50 Free art events and street performances – including the Civic Hall being transformed into a theatre illumination and an explosive firework display.

When is it: Friday October 3rd from 5pm

What to expect: A combination of funfair frolics and art show extravagance. As well as light-shows, optical illusions and live music they’ll also be an interesting take on the playground game “Heads, body, Tails” recreated for the digital age. Definitely something for those of you who fancy something artsy and little bit different.

Goth Reunion Night

What it is: 30 years on from the Goth movement (which swept through Leeds like a black fire back in the day) the Squash Club in Dewsbury will be putting on a grand reunion night to celebrate the underground culture.

When is it: Saturday October 4th from 8pm

What to expect: The Squash Club was one of the movement’s biggest haunts, so expect flocks of men wearing more makeup than the women and some outrageous clothing. But that doesn’t mean dressing the part is necessary. Anybody who likes the music from the era – or simply fancies a taste of it – will find plenty to enjoy here. In short, it’ll be like going back to the 80’s.

Chortle Kombat, Deathmatch Comedy

What it is: 10 standup comedians (or should that be Komedians?) will be battling it out for your laughter and applause – on top of a cash prize – at The New Roscoe.

When is it: Wednesday 1st October from 8pm

What to expect: Jokes. Drinks. Laughter. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect night out?

September 29, 2014
Meet Friends on Your Lunch: 3 Alternatives to Your Typical Lunch Break

So it’s almost lunchtime and nothing’s going to satisfy you more than to meet friends for a quick bite to eat, with a side helping of ‘pleasant conversation’ and maybe a few drinks thrown in for good measure. Yes, nothing aids digestion more than good company (unless they steal your food from your plate) which is why we wanted to run down 3 great ideas for an alternative lunch with friends.

Al fresco

With summer just around the corner, you won’t always feel like sitting inside a steamy cafe and bustling restaurant. Gather yourselves outdoors and meet up for something a little cooler and more refreshing.

There’s always plenty of vendors serving lots of different kinds of foods on the go at this time of year. So why not break the monotony of a busy day at work with some outdoor lunch fun!

Take a look around

A feast for the eyes is still a feast, and for those of you who like a discussion during your lunchtime, you’ll have plenty to talk about with all the interesting works on show.

Museums in busy town centres are often surrounded with quaint little cafes, pubs, and eateries – so there’s always a place to sit down afterwards and grab a bite to eat. It’s the perfect way to fill a lazy afternoon when you feel like trying something different but not too vigorous.

Don’t fancy a museum? Not a problem, just substitute it for something that all of you are interested in – a look around the city and your favourite shop maybe. Just be sure to find time to sit down and enjoy yourselves.

Try something new

Don’t like sushi? How would you know unless you’ve already tried it? Japanese? Mexican? Tapas? Busy shopping centres and food courts are nowadays packed with all sorts of interesting places to sit in and try something new.

And it’s not just the kinds of foreign foods you’re already familiar with from your Friday night takeaways, there’s lots of lunchtime menu variety on offer. So why not take a break from the sarnies and jacket potatoes and try something different.

EVENT ALERT: Ladies That Like to Lunch

On Saturday 10th May MixingOut organiser Andie will be hosting a get together at All Bar One in Leeds, for light lunch, girl talk and cocktails. So if you fancy popping along, sign up here.

April 29, 2014
Sun’s Out, Guns Out – Getting Fit With New Friends

Physical exercise isn’t exactly the most appealing way to spend your free time. But what if you started doing more active things with new friends, surely that would make it more engaging and attractive.

Besides finding someone else to help develop your fitness interests (because getting into shape is practically nine tenths motivation) it’s also a very effective way of being healthier, working out all that pent up frustration and energy, and generally feeling a whole lot better about yourself. And above all else, there are some really fun ways to go about it, especially when you’ve got a friend or two involved.

So, seeing as though Summer is only a few weeks away, here’s some fun and effective ways for friends to get fitter together.

Keeping things simple: Running

Most of us at some point have got up at 6am to go for a run before everyone else is awake, just so we can ‘secretively’ get into shape without anybody seeing us try. It’s hardly the most enjoyable way to exercise.

Much better to grab yourself a running-buddy and go for a jog/run together at a time that conveniences the both of you. Throw a little friendly competitiveness into the mix and you’ll be shedding those pounds in no time.

Going a bit more adventurous: Rambling and rock climbing

For those of you who like to get out a bit more and really feel the benefits, then why not arrange a day trip to any one of the beauty spots in and around your area.

Rolling hills, fresh air, steep climbs – there’s literally so much to do, you can make it as casual or as adventurous as you like. Many National Trust owned parks also do further activities, such as rock climbing, kayaking and bike rides. So if there’s something you’ve always felt like giving a go, it would be a great opportunity to try it with other people.

Or maybe somewhere in between: Gym and fitness classes

If you’re stuck for ideas on what to do together, then maybe finding out what’s going on at your nearest gym is a good place to start. From simple fitness and yoga classes to higher-intense activities and workout sessions, there’s always something to cater for your level of fitness.

April 23, 2014
Best ‘Non-date’ Dates for New Friends

Let’s get one thing straight, we’re not talking about dating new friends here. This isn’t like when you were twelve and just going out with one other person meant it was ‘a date’. That’s stupid, right? We’ve all grown up and matured since then… Well, most of us have.

No – we’re talking about ‘non-dates’. Arranging to go out with maybe a new friend for the first time and just having a fun time with some good company. And we’ve got just the perfect settings to get you started:

1. Going for a Coffee

Sometimes coffee is best shared in the company of just the two of you. It means you can really get to know one another better over a hot drink and maybe a quick bite to eat. You can’t always get know somebody better when you’re trying to shout over blaring music, half intoxicated from the drinks on offer that night… sometimes these things are best saved for the light of day, in a quieter, more relaxed setting.

2. Hitting the Beer Garden

Then again, if coffee’s not your thing (and getting to know someone while your at least a quarter intoxicated is) then maybe hitting a beer garden is your best bet. It’s been getting nice and warm lately, so plenty of pubs and bars are starting to put more tables and chairs outside these days. Get the drinks in!

3. Catching a Film

Yes, we know what you’re thinking. Dim lighting, scary movie… it’s got to be a date, right? No! Going to the cinema with a new friend and seeing what films they’re into – and sharing what films you’re into – is a great way of getting to know one another. Besides, it can sometimes be difficult dragging somebody else to go and watch a movie that you really want to see but they don’t. So grab yourself a film-buddy for those blockbusters coming up!

April 14, 2014
Meet People in Derby for The Beer Festival This February

Okay, so it’s not exactly beer garden season just yet, and it’s still far too cold to confidently order a cider without the guy behind the bar giving you a funny look. But this year’s beer festival is going to be the perfect excuse to meet people in Derby and have a great time over a good old pint.

That’s right, the CAMRA National Winter Ales Festival is coming to Derby this February, serving up an offering of the best ales, ciders, continental beers and mead from all around the country. This is all taking place at The Roundhouse, from Wednesday the 19^th to Saturday the 22^nd . So if you fancy it, pick a date that suits and make yourselves heard on our events board. It’s not for another week yet, but the sooner everybody knows about it, the easier it will be to organise a get together.

There’s also going to be a selection of live bands playing, so even if you’re not a big drinker (there’s probably only a couple of you out there), or if you just don’t fancy a mid-week night on the beers, then there’s still lots to enjoy and to keep you entertained.

And for the connoisseurs amongst you, there’s also going to be the Champion Winter Beer of Britain beers to be judged, taking place at the nearby Carriage Shop Theatre. We’ve been told that’s a judging competition to find the best beer in Britain, but until we turn up for ourselves, we’re not entirely sure. Either way, it promises to be a fun night out!

Oh yes, and with all that beer flowing, you might want to check our guide to partying hard without the hangover the next morning. Because if you’re planning to make a night of it, you’re going to need it.

February 12, 2014
Beer & Ping Pong: Best new Bars in Leeds for Meeting People

We thought we’d kick start the new year with a showcase of some of the best new bars in Leeds, all perfect venues for meeting people before that big night out… or perhaps a cheeky game of ping pong.

Belgrave Music Hall

Where: 1-1A Cross Bellgrave Street, Leeds, LS2 8JP

Despite only opening its doors to the public just before Christmas last year, the Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen has already proved extremely popular and has drawn a lively crowd almost every night.

The Belgrave has gained a reputation for offering up some of the best craft beers and real ales in Leeds, and some of the tastiest grub to go alongside with it. Which means you can pop in to catch the latest live act – as the name of the place suggests – but its also a great place to just hang out and enjoy good company as well.

The Atlas Pub

Where: Atlas House, Leeds, LS1 2HL

A mix of good old traditional English pubs and trendy new bars is a major focus for The Atlas Pub, which is full of atmosphere and boasts a spacious seating area for groups of friends, as well as dark little nooks for more intimate get togethers.

If you like your traditional pub snacks, they offer a delicious range of modern alternatives, including crispy pigs ears, crackling & apple sauce, pork pies and even a pint of prawns with poppy seed mayo – gastro-grub of the highest calibre.

Aside from the wide range of ales and beers, The Atlas also have an extensive selection of whiskeys – which all leads us to consider this place a suitable haunt for you and your friends on a blustery Sunday afternoon.

The Roxy Ball Room

Where: Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 6HW

Another welcome addition to the city’s vibrant hub of bars and restaurants, The Roxy Ball Room is a laid back, relaxed venue that offers up a new dimension to a night on the town – drinking and ping pong. But if your paddle skills are rather poor, there’s still the staple favourite pool room also included. What more fun could you possible want!

January 20, 2014
Meet Friends for a Good Movie, What’s in Store for 2014

Everybody loves going to see a good movie now and then, it’s a brilliant excuse to get out and meet friends, whatever time of the day. Whether you’re filling a few spare hours in the middle of a quiet afternoon, or setting yourselves up for a fun night out, going to watch a movie gives you plenty to enjoy and talk about later over a few drinks or a quick bite to eat.

Luckily, 2014 is chocked full of some spectacular-looking movies to go and see together. It doesn’t matter if you and your friends are film buffs, or just looking for some last minute entertainment, here’s just a few of our favourites we think you’ll enjoy.

Godzilla

Forget everything you knew about the 1998 abomination, because this time around they got Legendary Pictures to oversee proceedings, the same company that raised the bar in franchise reboots with the latest Superman and Batman movies.

The film retells the origin of Godzilla in contemporary times as a “terrifying force of nature” and promises to be one the year’s most spectacular big-budget blockbusters; the perfect mix of compelling storytelling, impressive special effects, and thrilling set pieces. Check out the exciting new trailer here.

22 Jump Street

The sequel to the hilarious 21 Jump Street sees Channing Tatum and Jonah hill reprise their roles as a couple of underachieving cops, this time going back to college to crack a crime ring within a fraternity.

The plot might sound a little thin on the ground, but the first movie was filled with plenty of laugh out load moments, with some great scenes and very funny performances throughout – so hopefully we can expect more of the same second time around. The guys even took the time during production to film this hilarious parody of That famous Jean Claude Van Damn commercial.

Interstellar

Christopher Nolan’s first release since his successful The Dark Knight Trilogy, Interstellar is a standalone science fiction film in a similar vein to the much applauded Inception.

Details surrounding the main plot are rather hush hush. All that’s been confirmed is that it’s about the discovery of a wormhole, and a team of scientists’ voyage through it, based upon the work of theoretical physicist Kip Thorne and rewritten by Christopher and longterm collaborator Jonathan Nolan.

So why are we so excited, even when we know very little about the whole thing? Well, Christopher Nolan has got to be one of the most innovative filmmakers working today, every one of of his films is so much more than a modern classic, they’re an event. And a new Christopher Nolan movie coming out in 2014 is surely an event worth going to.

RoboCop

Another well beloved franchise gets a brand new makeover for 2014, RoboCop is a more than just of remake of the 1987 original, it’s going to be a whole new vision that already looks to be one of the year’s most exciting blockbusters – especially if you’re a fan of good of old fashioned 80’s action movies. Be sure to catch the latest trailer here.

Also keep an eye out for…

Sin City: A Dame to Kill For

The long-awaited sequel to 2005’s Sin City finally gets a release date (fingers crossed for August 22^nd) after countless delays and set backs. It’s based on the second graphic novel in Frank Miller’s Sin City series and sees director Robert Rodriguez return alongside old characters, and some new ones too. Expect action, stylised violence, and a story darker than the tones of black on the screen.

A Million Ways to Die in the West

Seth McFarlane follows up the hilarious Ted with this Western-inspired comedy about a cowardly farmer who seeks the help of a gunslinger’s wife to win back his love. Like Ted and Family Guy before it, expect controversial gags, quotable dialogue and outrageous humour.

The Monuments Men

George Clooney leads an unlikely group of Second World War soldiers to steal back a collection of art masterpieces from enemy thieves and return them to their owners, in this mash-up of Saving Private Ryan and Ocean’s 11.

Dumb and Dumber 2

If only to see Jim Carey and Jeff Daniels reprise their roles from the original classic, this film has surely got to be worth checking out with friends for a good laugh.

January 8, 2014