While a day at the beach or a weekend camping trip can be a blast, sometimes all you want is the comfort of home. Between juggling work, school and extracurricular activities, finding time to plan a …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
Please log in to continue |
While a day at the beach or a weekend camping trip can be a blast, sometimes all you want is the comfort of home. Between juggling work, school and extracurricular activities, finding time to plan a family day or a night out with friends can feel overwhelming.
And let’s be honest, sometimes you just don’t want to go out.
Fortunately, Gulf Coast Media has put together a list of activities that require minimal planning but still bring the fun and togetherness right to your doorstep because, Friday nights and weekends are made for having fun.
Game night is a time-honored tradition that never goes out of style. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or discovering new favorites, board games offer endless entertainment. Games like Scrabble, Jenga and Clue are staples that can bring everyone together. For me, The Game of Life holds a special place in my heart. There’s something thrilling about navigating careers, families and finances, all while spinning the spinner to see where luck takes you. Despite the strategic planning, a bad spin can still lead to unexpected and hilarious outcomes. These moments of unpredictability often spark lively discussions and laughter.
A deck of cards is also a great way to have fun. That 52-card deck holds games such as War, Go Fish, Blackjack, Speed and many others.
Video games also provide a modern twist on traditional game nights. I remember playing Mario Party, Mario Kart and Pokémon Puzzle League growing up. Today’s video games offer a range of options for family fun. If you have a laptop, you can expand those options with co-op games such as Lethal Company, Phasmophobia and more.
Not into video games? Try digital versions of classic board games like Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit, Sorry! and Risk. These adaptations offer new modes and streamlined setups, making it easy to jump into the fun. For example, Monopoly's video game version includes speed modes for a quicker, more dynamic experience.
If your children are video game fans, these digital board games could be a great way to connect. I recommend Monopoly and Trivial Pursuit Live! for their fresh take on familiar games. For even more family fun, consider Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.
For a tech-savvy twist, consider interactive games available on YouTube or smart-devices. Channels featuring movie trivia, general trivia questions and fun challenges like "Guess the Song" and "Finish the Lyrics" can turn an ordinary night into a lively competition.
In "Guess the Song," a short snippet of a song plays — usually 3 to 5 seconds — and you have to identify the song and the artist. This game can be a fun way to test your music knowledge and discover new tunes. In "Finish the Lyrics," a portion of a song plays, and you must complete the next line. We’ve had some unforgettable fun with these games, singing along until our voices were hoarse and rediscovering old favorites (who knew I could still rap Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby” perfectly?).
For those with smart speakers, asking Alexa to play similar games can add a convenient and interactive element to your evening.
If you’re in the mood for something more hands-on, arts and crafts offer a wonderful way to spend time together. Remember the joy of drawing at the kitchen table as a child? Those creative moments don’t have to end with childhood. Whether you’re coloring in adult coloring books, making homemade slime or crafting Christmas ornaments, these activities can be a source of fun and relaxation. YouTube is a fantastic resource for finding craft tutorials that suit all ages and skill levels. From painting parties to DIY projects, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for creative family time.
Baking is another at-home activity that combines fun with delicious results. That box of cake or brownie mix you’ve been saving can become the centerpiece of a family baking session. Or perhaps there’s a recipe you’ve been eyeing on Pinterest or TikTok — now is the perfect time to try it out. Involving your kids in the baking process not only results in tasty treats but also provides an educational experience. Teaching them about the science of baking and letting them help with measuring and mixing can be both enjoyable and informative.
For a cozy and nostalgic touch, consider gathering the family to listen to a story-driven podcast or audiobook. This modern equivalent of old-time radio shows can provide a comforting and engaging way to spend time together. It’s a throwback to simpler times when families would gather around the radio to enjoy stories and programs, creating a shared experience that fosters connection.
Another option is to bring the movie theater experience to your home. Pick a movie, make the popcorn and enjoy the company. If you are like me and have tons of photos on your phone, screencast your phone to your TV and share memories as a slideshow. Take turns with your friends if you haven't seen them in a while to catch up on what's been going on.
Staying in doesn’t have to be mundane or repetitive. Whether you’re rolling dice, whipping up cookies or engaging in a friendly trivia challenge, there are countless ways to make a night at home special. As the weekend approaches, consider these ideas for creating memorable and enjoyable experiences with your loved ones. Did I miss something? Let us know your favorite ways to have a fun night at home with your family and friends by emailing editor@gulfcoastmedia.com.
