By Mercedes Korngut and Anastasia Korngut | Co-Founders, Smallbitsofhappiness.com
Social connection is a major key to feeling happier! However, finding unique – and cheap – activities can be quite the feat. Even in a city or town that we’ve lived in for years, we may struggle to come up with new ideas on what to do with friends. Below, we list a variety of fun spring activities that can be done in most cities and towns, enhancing your social time in a fresh and exciting environment. Not to mention, these activities are affordable, and enjoyable for tweens, teens, parents, and people of all ages.
1. Go To The Zoo
With warmer weather on the way, going to a local zoo can be a fun way to get out of the house, spend time outside, and focus on one-on-one time with friends. Seeing different animals (and maybe picking up a few yummy snacks along the way), is a fun activity that brings us a mood boost. Go on a sunny day and enjoy the spring weather while soaking up some vitamin D. Side note: make sure you wear some sunscreen.
2. Take A Cooking Class
Learning a new skill creates fun memories for everyone, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours connecting with friends and family. Plus, there’s no better way to spend a few hours than making a delicious meal that we can later enjoy. Not only are we learning new skills, we’ll be able to make a new meal for years to come – and think back to this special class. Working together as a team, measuring ingredients, as well as setting timers, allows for the trust between everyone to strengthen. Cooking and connecting—what’s better than that?
3. Take An Art Class
Along the lines of the last activity, taking an art class with a friend or family member can be a fun, lighthearted way to spend a few hours. Doing creative things, such as painting, pottery, or candle-making, releases dopamine in our brain making us feel happier and less stressed. This relaxed environment also makes for easier conversation flow and creates terrific memories.
4. Go To A Farmers Market
Exploring the farmers market with friends and family is a fun way to get out of the house and support local vendors. Check out different colorful stalls and try samples of food and drinks. Additionally, all of the smells of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and different foods will make the experience feel vibrant and lively. Supporting local vendors will also bring a small bit of happiness, knowing that we’re contributing back to our community.
5. Picnic At A Local Park
On a warmer sunny day, plan to spend lunch or a snack together at a local park. Bring yummy treats, which can be either homemade or store-bought, and enjoy the time in the energizing spring air. Being outside and away from other distractions allows for us to have a genuine conversation away from technology and our phones. An affordable, cheap activity, picnics are always on our spring and summer bucket list.
We hope that and your friends try a new activity, and find a Small Bit of Happiness.
ABOUT THE TEENAGE AUTHORS
Mercedes Korngut, Co-Founder & CEO
Mercedes is a teen who is passionate about helping other teens find small happiness in daily life. She is the producer and co-host of podcast, Hack Your Happiness, and the editor of all Small Bits of Happiness media videos. In addition, Mercedes is a contributor to various magazines across North America, writing on the subject of happiness and parent-teen connection.
Anastasia Korngut, Co-Founder & COO
Anastasia is a passionate and talented fashion designer, and is the head of the Small Bits of Happiness designs department. Her work focuses on intentional innovation – creating products that elevate one’s daily mood. In addition, Anastasia heads social media, and co-hosts the podcast, Hack Your Happiness.
Learn more about finding bits of happiness at https://smallbitsofhappiness.com.