My Top 5 Favorite At-Home Cozy Experiences

As the weather cools down, the days darken faster, and we ache to slow down our lives and enjoy the present moment (even when our holiday plans say otherwise), having a list of activities that feel intentional can help us achieve this. 

Before we start doom-scrolling or binging Netflix, which I am unashamed to admit that sometimes that’s just what the night calls for, take a look at what the other easy to orchestrate options are, that might just help you feel more connected and at ease. 

If you’re coupled up, solo, or have a family in mind, tweak as you see fit!

1. At-home fondue night. Whether you’ve purchased your own fondue set or use a pot on the stove, this is a fun and easy activity that you don’t need to leave your house to enjoy. If you’re in the move for sweet or savory, you have options! Melted chocolate with items like strawberries, marshmallows, pretzels, and anything you can think of, absolutely hits the spot. Or go for melted cheese with vegetables, bread, and cooked meats for an app or even main-course treat. Not only does it taste great, but it’s a fun activity that keeps everyone engaged. 

2. Outdoor movie night. Snuggle-up on an inflatable air mattress or outdoor sofa with your favorite blankets. While we do this with a projector screen and projector that we purchased years ago, this can be easily attainable with a hung white sheet and projector that you can attach and stream from your phone. I’ve even seen DIY shoebox methods you can put your phone in - but I’ve yet to try. If you guys have seen some hacks, throw them in the comments below and share them!

3. Game night. This one feels self-explanatory, but since 2020 feels like a thing of the past, I feel like most people forget about this idea. You don’t need an expensive game to accomplish this experience, although obviously do what feels right. When was the last time you played gin with a deck of cards? Or even old-school solitaire with yourself? Are you sleeping on charades? We occasionally also break out our Switch, as there are now your favorites (like Monopoly, Wheel of Fortune, etc.) that can make it feel fresh and exciting. Start hyping up your game night early in the week so kids get excited, and on the night of, order in your favorite food and get ready to build camaraderie and competition!

4. Complete a puzzle. Only recently have I revisited my love of puzzles, and now with a very competitive husband, sometimes we’ll turn it into mini races on who can find the next connecting peace. Whether you’ve turned it into a game or created a soft and safe space to disconnect, this is a wonderful evening activity or even daily ritual for a few minutes to wind down. I also love to choose puzzles based on the season. This way, after I’ve completed it, I can add some puzzle glue, throw it into a frame, and hang it on the wall to add to our home decor! Of course, you don’t need to do this, but how fun to add an element of long-lasting purpose.

5. Cozy cooking. One of my favorite things to do is to browse Pinterest to find a great tasting (and easy to make) new dessert or bread to bake. The trick for me to stay excited throughout the cooking or baking process, is to make sure it’s not too complicated. I’ve also been leaning on ChatGPT to input the ingredients I have on hand and what that could translate to. Do this solo to cozify your home with a sweet smell or partake as a family with everyone having a job. 

What do you find yourself leaning into when you have a night-in? Let me know in the comments!