Now that the semester has finally come to an end, it’s time to kick off our shoes, and relax. However, once you’re caught up on sleep and have become bored from sitting on your couch re-watching your favorite sitcom, you’re going to get the urge to do something else.

For the days you don’t want to leave and the nights you can’t wait to get out, here are some fun things that you can do this summer that won’t make you die of boredom.

Don’t sleep on Five Below:

If you want a fun and cheap hobby to pick up either by yourself or with friends, Five Below is the place to be. They have so many crafts and activities for $5 and under. My personal favorite are the diamond paintings because they take up a lot of time and they’re perfect for the days that you just want to stay inside or when you know you have nothing planned for the next couple of days. I’ve also seen knitting kits, painting kits, and many other fun and mindless activities. The best part is, it might lead to a hobby that you end up doing more often. 

Learn to cook or bake:

Always complaining that you can’t cook? This summer is the perfect time to get some basics down. Take a couple recipes from pinterest and see what you can do. Cooking and baking is a fun activity that you can do by yourself, or with friends or a significant other. You can even make a game out of it and do a cooking competition. Knowing how to make food, whether it be full meals or just basic cupcakes, is a life skill but it can also be fun. 

Picnic in the park:

When was the last time you went to the park? It doesn’t have to be anything extravagant, but a picnic is a classic group activity. For the nice days, instead of eating hot cheetos on your couch, eat them in the sunshine. Not to mention, playgrounds are much more fun than you think. There’s nothing like feeling the breeze in your face while on the swings, especially when your bestie is on the one next to you. 

Make a day out of going to the pool or beach:

Something that I don’t see anymore is a fun day trip. When I was younger, I remember we would wake up early and make a whole day out of going to the town pool or the beach. I think it could be fun to wake up early, (preferably after a sleepover), pack lunches and sunscreen, and spend your whole day at the beach or pool. Many local town pools will hold events like movie nights and live music. And who doesn’t love a sandwich on the beach? 

These are just a couple ideas to help you beat the summer boredom. But I would do your research on local events in your community, especially at your local library. Even if they sound lame, this summer you should make it a priority to go outside this summer or at least be busy. Because let’s be honest, you need to say SOMETHING during icebreakers on your first day back at school!