Craft Breweries, Cafes, and Antigonish’s Third Spaces

With the advent that was the smartphone back when most of us were just toddlers, there came into existence a new pastime: scrolling. I’m guilty of it, and don’t tell me you aren’t guilty of it—everyone and their grandmother is guilty of it. After hours of Instagram Reels and TikToks, we have that same sinking feeling as drinking on a Monday night. You may ask yourself: “did I really just do that?” before coming to terms with your lost hours. With the rise of technology and passing the time through endless scrolling, we often find ourselves needing excuses to get out of the house. This is where the third space comes in.

A third space is a place away from our traditional first two spaces, those being home and work/school. This is a place in which we can be present with our friends and acquaintances without the comforts and distractions of home but with new comforts and distractions of social interaction. It’s not news that humans are social creatures. Indeed, left alone on a deserted island and we may even start talking to volleyballs to keep us company. But by having a spot to catch up with friends and maybe do some schoolwork off campus, we revitalize ourselves with a necessary de-stressor. Antigonish has two clear favourite forms of third spaces: craft breweries and cafes.

Craft breweries often make great event spaces. Lively evenings with local musicians playing their hearts out always make for a great night out with friends. While I do love our own Inn, there is something a bit more quaint and rustic to a night out at Candid or Oak Manor, and playing trivia against the locals rather than just other students is always a treat. It is obvious that other students feel the same way given the number of events held by different societies at these breweries. Often the connection between the students and these breweries runs deeper than just enjoying their beer and a nice night out on the town. These breweries offer amazing job opportunities to students, and it’s hard to visit one without seeing a fellow student working the tap. The best part is that you don’t even have to drink when you go to these places if you don’t want to. You can simply enjoy the vibe, but just don’t be too surprised if one of your friends has had a little too much and needs to be walked home later that night.

Cafes are on the quieter side compared to breweries and provide great opportunities to work on assignments and fill up on caffeine. Places such as the Grindhouse and Tall and Small offer different brews that are great for a little afternoon pick-me-up. The sandwich selection at both places is only another bonus. I recently had just gone to Tall and Small with a group to discuss the game plan for a group assignment. It was a lovely relaxing atmosphere, and quiet enough to discuss the plan without any voices being drowned out.

If you need some time away from your phone and all the various apps designed to distract you, I highly recommend finding yourself a third space. I’d also recommend enjoying a local place and rewarding them with your patronage. As much as we all enjoy our campus’ Starbucks, it is important to support local when we can.