Me and my friends always get stuck in a cycle of movies, mall, movies, mall, and so on. We are in need of some new hangout ideas, which is what inspired me to write this article. It will explore some fun and unique ideas, split into four different categories. No matter the weather, no matter how many friends you have, here are 20 awesome ideas about fun things to do with friends.
Sunny days:
Ideas for the summer season when you want to get outdoors! Just remember to stay hydrated.
A picnic:
No matter the season, it’s hard to beat a picnic on a sunny day. Possible locations could be the beach, or a park/field. Make sure you bring a picnic blanket!
Beach volleyball:
A great way to get active! You don’t have to be a pro to have lots of fun playing this sport. There are also variations of volleyball you could try, such as catchball.
Swimming:
At the pool, at the beach, maybe even at a river or lake. A good way to cool off during the summer months.
Make a short film:
Definitely a more out-of-the-box idea, but highly recommended! Get some of your friends together and create something really cool. You don’t need any fancy equipment, you can film on your phone. You could create a script or storyline, or you can just document your lives for a few hours. Films like these are amazing to look back on in a year or two.
Painting:
Grab some canvases and set up in your backyard! Even if you think you’re no good at art, it’s proven to be really therapeutic and relaxing. You could even try painting tote bags, or cards for future birthdays. Or, you could try swapping canvases every 10 minutes, combining your artistic styles to create a beautiful piece of art. If you don’t have any, canvases and paints are usually cheap at places like dollar stores. #art | couples paint each other | TikTok.
Rainy days:
For when the weather’s not so good, and you want to be warm and cosy but still have fun!
PowerPoint night:
Each of you make a PowerPoint or Google Slides with fun topics like ‘What aesthetic each friend is’ and ‘Trends I regret participating in’. Then present them to each other. I’m definitely going to try this one in the future!
Movie marathon:
Watch your favourite movies, or pick a genre and watch some of the best ones! Make sure you get cosy with heaps of pillows and blankets, fairy lights can also be a nice touch. Snacks are highly recommended.
Baking:
Making cupcakes or cookies with friends is super fun and delicious. You could even try decorating them when they’re done.
Board games:
Great for competitive friends. You could get everyone to bring their favourite board game for a fun mix of games!
Hobbies:
Everyone can bring their ongoing project, whether it’s reading a book, knitting or crochet, building a lego set, or something else. Play some music or a movie in the background. It’s great working on your own thing but still surrounded by your friends.
Costs money:
If you’re willing to spend a little money, here are some cool activities to try!
Cinema:
Seeing a movie at the cinema hits different. It’s not necessarily better than sitting in your lounge, but it’s pretty great, especially with friends.
Theme Park/water park:
They can be expensive, but it’s a great experience and definitely worth it.
Museum/art gallery:
They often have really nice and relaxing vibes, if you just want to chill out with some friends and see some cool stuff.
Shopping:
You could go to a mall/shopping centre, or go thrifting for a cheaper and environmentally friendly alternative.
Roller Skating/ice skating:
Rinks often hold disco nights perfect for groups of friends.
Free:
Ideas that are 100% free but still fun!
Nature walk:
Get off your phone, go outside and reconnect with nature. It doesn’t have to be a huge hike, it could just be 15 minutes. We have so many amazing walking tracks around the country, go check one out! Just remember to be safe and follow the rules when bushwalking.
Arts and crafts:
You can find heaps of tutorials online for cute crafts which don’t need heaps of materials. They’re fun to make, and can be good birthday gifts.
Clothing swap:
Everyone brings the clothes they no longer want, and do a swap. A great opportunity to find some new clothes for free, without contributing to fast fashion.
Learn a new skill/hobby on YouTube:
There’s always something new to learn, and it’s great learning with friends. Some ideas are origami, a game or sport, or even air-dry clay.
Sport:
Go outside and kick around a ball or have a go at another sport. A good way to have fun and get some exercise.
I hope you found something in this list that you’re going to try with your friends. There are heaps more ideas out there, so keep your mind open to new ideas instead of the usual hangouts!