10 Winter Staycation Ideas for Your Holiday Break

winter staycation ideas girl in a purple blazerwinter staycation ideas girl in a purple blazer

Whether you're not sure you want to travel this holiday season, or you'd just rather park yourself on the couch with your favorite Netflix show, you don't need an excuse to opt for a staycation. We love the slow pace and appreciation for the things (and people) in our lives, and closing out 2021 with a short work break is the perfect time to enjoy what makes being home pretty magical. Happy holidays y'all!

Explore the Christmas lights in town

christmas lights on a house

The pandemic and travel restrictions haven't taken away our holiday spirit, that's for sure. Every town has that block of Griswold-y neighbors. Grab your Santa hats and go cruising for all the 'Grammable holiday lights!

Turn your home into a holiday theater

While theaters are starting to reopen, there's nothing like the comfort of movie nights (and days?) at home. Grab all the pillows and blankets, turn out the lights (save for xmas lights), pop some corn, and hit Play. Some of our holiday favorites: Elf, Love Actually and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Make a hot chocolate bar for two

Whether you're sheltering with your S.O, a roommate, family, or even if you're living alone, Christmas music and hot chocolate is the self-care we all need right now. Fixing ideas: marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon, sprinkles, peppermint, shaved chocolate, booze, and cayenne to spice things up!

Go for a winter hike

There are so many mental and physical benefits to hiking that it's become one of our favorite winter exercises. Close out a stressful year with a mindful walk in the woods. Bonus points for exploring a new trail!

Support a local shop

We all want to keep our communities intact. Order takeout from your fave restaurant, shop at your local bookstore (even if curbside is still the only option) and shop last-minute gifts by giving your favorite small business some love this season.

Bake for a friend or neighbor

Break out the holiday cookie cutters and spread some Christmas cheer with a porch surprise of colorful Christmas cookies or fudge-y delicious brownies.

Practice gratitude

Nancy Davis Kho, author of The Thank You Project: Cultivating Happiness One Letter of Gratitude at a Time, shares the science-backed reason for why and how to write a letter of gratitude to the people you love and like.

Plant an indoor herb garden

Growing your own personal herb garden is easy no matter where you live this time of year. Find a sunny spot, ideally your kitchen, and plant basil, mint, oregano and more so you can add some homegrown goodness toyour next meal or drink.

Spruce up your space

Whether you want to add a pop of cheery color or take one of Brit + Co's online creative classes for just $10/month unlimited, now's the time to give your home and your creative spirit a little TLC.

Catch up on your reading

'Tis the season to slow down and enjoy a good read, away from your phone. Check out these pages turners for book loversor if you're on the road catch up on your favorite podcast and learn something new!

What are your winter staycation plans this season? Share with us on Instagram and check out our newsletter for more inspiration!

This post has been updated.

We're loving that longer days means we get more fun in the sun. Our favorite outdoor activity right now? Hiking. And there are plenty of trails to explore in the USA. You can rent an RV and make your way through the 50 states — think about all the different environments and nature you'll see!

Drive to a national park and ditch your wheels for a walk, or pack enough camping food and resources for the long haul and head into the woods for days or even weeks. We've rounded up a range of trails that will be kind to your feet (that is, hikes you can complete in a day) and totally worth it (thanks to the breathtaking vistas you'll encounter along the way). No matter where you are in the States, you'll certainly find one of these incredible hiking trails a true inspiration for the rest of your summer.

Overlook Trail and McWay Falls (Big Sur, California)

If you’ve been to Big Sur, you know there really are no bad trails to hike. It’s one of the most picturesque spots on the planet, and by hiking this area, you’ll get to take in plenty of outstanding vistas for little effort. Under a mile long, Overlook is a great hike to go on while enjoying views of the cliffs as well as the 80-foot McWay Falls.

Middle Emerald Pools Trail (Zion National Park, Utah)

At just over two miles, Middle Emerald Pools is a remarkably refreshing hike to take during Utah's sunniest days. Along with the unpaved climb to a sandstone ledge, you'll connect to the other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta trail on your way to the pool and waterfall.

Cascade Mountain Trail (Adirondacks, New York)

Northeasterners, you may want to drop want you're doing and make a beeline to the Adirondacks for some time in nature by way of the Cascade Mountain Trail. A little over five miles there and back, this scenic trail is fairly popular in the summer months with a few steep areas and plenty of wildflowers. It's an excellent hike to do solo, your social bubble, or even alongside your family.

Roanoke Trail (Nags Head Woods, North Carolina)

Located within the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve, this 1.5-mile roundtrip hike will take you through dune forests, salt marsh, and live oaks until you reach the coast. Gorgeous flowers and an array of vibrant birdlife occupy the area. There are several other trails in the areaas well if you feel this one isn’t challenging enough.

Lassen Peak Trail (Lassen Volcanic National Park, California)

Who wouldn’t want the chance to hike around a volcano? It’s only five miles out and back, so it’s definitely doable even for a less experienced hiker. NorCal summer weather stays fairly cool with highs just in the 70s, so a hike up this active volcano won’t leave you too hot. Plus it’s clearly an out-of-this-world experience.

Watkins Glen Gorge Trail (Watkins Glen State Park, New York)

This hike is just a bit over a mile each way, so it’s ideal for those who don’t exactly hike on the regular. It’s also best left for a hot day since it offers plenty of shade for cooling off. The trailhead starts at a cave then takes you past 19 different waterfalls, a feature few other trails could boast.

Reed Lakes Trail (Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska)

Looking for an all-day, challenging hike with a huge payoff for your fitness *and* Instagram feed? Look no further than the Reed Lakes Trail, an nine-mile roundtrip hike where you'll gain thousands of feet in elevation through meadows, boulder fields, and up into the mountain. You'll finish with some jaw-dropping panoramic views.

In our opinions, these are some of the best hikes in the US, and even if they can be done in a day, that doesn't mean your explorations have to stop there — there's usually a town nearby with some local cuisine. So figure out which of these hiking trails you'd like to conquer and go for it!

What do you think the best hikes in the US are? Let us know on Twitter!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Festival fashion has always been about making a statement, but some trends are best left in the past. Remember the good old days of flower crowns and dip-dyed denim? We hate to break it to you, but certain Coachella staples are starting to feel more costume-y than a cool-girl outfit. If you want to keep your festival looks fresh as ever, it’s time to retire these “outdated” trends and make room for something new.

Scroll on to discover 7 Coachella and festival trends that were once everything to the fashion community, but have since fallen out of style.

1. Studded Denim Shorts

Etsy

One Of A Kind High Waisted Studded Shorts

Studded denim shorts were everywhere in the early 2010s, thanks to festival fashion legends like Kylie Jenner and Vanessa Hudgens. They were truly so edgy, but the excessive embellishments have since fallen out of style.

Levi's

Levi's Baggy Dad Jorts

If you want to go the denim route for a festival ‘fit, you’re better off rocking high-waisted designs or baggy jorts for a more current feel.

Urban Outfitters

Silence + Noise Mona Studded Shoulder Bag

To channel the good old days of festival fashion, you could totally bulk up your Coachella ‘fits with cute studded accessories like hats or purses!

2. Combat Boots

Amazon

Amazon Essentials Lace-Up Combat Boots

Combat boots – you know the ones! They were once the go-to footwear for grungy festival looks, but along with not being super practical for all-day wear, they just add an unnecessarily bulky vibe.

Tecovas

Tecovas The Beth Boots

Instead, cowgirl boots are the “it” shoe to wear to festivals like Coachella. They’re way more comfortable and go with everything from denim shorts to flowy mini dresses!

3. Fringe Tank Tops

Etsy

Fringe Beaded Tie Dye Top

Remember when everyone and their mothers were chopping up their tank tops with fringe hems? We definitely participated in this festival-inspired trend, even tying little plastic beads onto the strands. Oh, take us back!

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Zolli Embroidered Open-Back Fringe Halter Top

Fringe tank tops were most certainly a symbol of the boho aesthetic that was so big in the 2010s, but they’ve now been eclipsed by sleeker styles.

Free People

We The Free Fringe Out Vegan Suede Jacket

If you still want to embrace the Coachella nostalgia at your next festival, try out a fringy poncho or jacket or a purse for something a little more low-key.

4. Flower Crowns

Etsy

Sun Flower Headband

Nothing screams ‘early Coachella’ more than flower crowns, but this trend came and went so quick. Flower crowns became so overused that they became cliché – LOL.

Free People

Free People So Silk Bandana

Luckily, you can still achieve the carefree vibe without having to put one on! Opt for chicer hair accessories like hair clips, bandanas, or bows. Plus, braided hairstyles can totally replace the need for anything excessive.

5. Gladiator Sandals

DSW

Vintage Foundry Pruitt Sandals

Oh gosh, we totally regret that these were even a fashion trend. Gladiator sandals – especially the knee-high, lace-up versions – were huge at one point, but they’ve since lost their appeal due to their impracticality. Not only are they hard to walk in, they take literal years to put on and take off, and can cause weird tan lines if you’re standing out in the sun for a festival.

Teva

Teva Flatform Mevia Sandals

These days, chunky platform sandals or cowboy boots are more the norm when it comes to festival fashion.

6. Crochet Dresses

ASOS

ASOS Monki Crochet Knitted Mini Dress

While crochet absolutely still has a place in festival fashion, the fully-crocheted maxi and mini dresses that were once all the rage now feel a wee bit overdone – and too closely tied to the ever-popular boho aesthetic of the past decade.

Urban Outfitters

Motel Fulvia Ruffle Trim Slip Mini Dress

Instead, rock some sheer mesh dresses, flowy slip dresses, or lace-trimmed pieces that offer a more modern take on lightweight festival dressing.

7. Tie-Dye Everything

Los Angeles Apparel

Los Angeles Apparel Tie Dye Baby Rib Halter Top

Tie-dye was another huge festival trend. From shirts to shorts, everything was seemingly covered in the pattern around the 2010s. The visually heavy prints now feel pretty costume-like, compared to today’s more-refined festival fashion. Earthy tones and minimalist patterns feel more appropriate for today’s trends.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more trends of the past!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Life is nothing but a grand adventure, and the summer season just adds an extra *sprinkle* of magic to it all. Amidst your hustling (and bustling) 9-5 work routine, it's crucial to carve out time for fun so you can live like you’re on summer break – because having fun is what makes it all worthwhile.

So, while you sit in meetings as the calendar flies by, try to remember that life's true essence lies in those nights out, trips to the ice cream parlor, and spontaneous road trips. There’s an ultimate balance between work and leisure, you just have to find it!

Here’s a few ways to embrace the spirit of summer, even if you’re a corporate baddie. Your next adventure awaits!

1. Plan out your weekends.

Explore the magic of your community on the weekends (because it’s your best free time, after all) by immersing yourself in local events and farmer's markets, where the air is infused with creativity – and the tantalizing aromas of fresh produce.

You could also embark on day trips to hidden gems, whether it's a scenic hike or a seaside escape. If you’d like to be closer to home, indulge in a staycation, where you can bask in the comfort of home while treating yourself to relaxation and self-care.

Dive into pool days, or fire up the grill to light up sizzling BBQ parties that bring friends together.

Going out is always a good option for fun – sip on chilled drinks at rooftop bars or pubs while you embrace a go-with-the-flow mentality. Finally, you can also let your culinary prowess shine as you experiment with new recipes.

2. Take advantage of your 5-9.

Photo by Hanna Auramenka / PEXELS

Seize your pre-9-5 (AM or PM) free time like a boss: lace up your sneakers for a morning (or evening) walk and hit the pavement to conquer the world one exhilarating stride at a time.

You can also sweat it out like a real superhero after work at the gym, where muscles flex and endorphins dance to an invigorating beat.

If morning movement is just *not* your thing, unleash the power of friendship at happy hour with plenty of laughter, cocktails, and unforgettable moments that make the workday a distant memory.

3. Use vacation days.

If you’re not using your workplace’s vacation days, you’re 1000% missing out. Taking time off when you need it is the key to unlocking a world of sun-soaked adventures and blissful relaxation.

Embrace your freedom from work to wander places near or far to rejuvenate your summer spirit. You can also take this time to recharge, reset, and reconnect with yourself and loved ones!

4. Maximize your lunch break.

The summer lunch breakis a delightful oasis in the midst of woeful workday business. When lunchtime hits, step out into the radiant sunshine and let its warm rays re-energize you.

While you’re out, you can treat yourself to a delicious feast with a quick pickup order from a nearby restaurant, and quench your thirst with a refreshing bev. As you savor each bite and sip, take a moment to stretch and move around for your working body and mind. Summer is in the air, and your lunch break is the best excuse to hone in on those bits of joy.

5. Tick boxes off your summer bucket list.

Photo by Roman Odintsov / PEXELS

A summer bucket list serves as a beacon of excitement and inspiration for 9-5-ers, plus provides ample structure so that you *never* run out of things to do. Use your summer bucket list to break free from the monotony of your work routine and embrace adventure.

Sign up for our newsletter for more ideas on things to do this summer!

Header photo by Vlada Karpovich / PEXELS

We already know that Netflix's Sirens is all about "socialites, scandal, and power struggles" (Gossip Girl, anyone?), but the streamer finally just announced when we can watch the new show, and it's even sooner than we hoped. In addition to confirming its early summer release date, we also have a first look at stars Meghann Fahy, Julianne Moore, and Kevin Bacon — and it makes me want to watch the show even more than I already did. (And considering the show is produced by Margot Robbie, I already really wanted to watch it). Here's your first look at Netflix's new dark comedy.

Keep reading for the first look at Sirens, coming to Netflix May 22, 2025.

'Sirens' is an "explosive" look at power.

Netflix

In Sirens, Devon (Meghann Fahy) is worried about her sister Simone (Milly Alcock). Or, more specifically, Simone's way-too-close relationship with her boss, socialite Michaela Kell (Julianne Moore). When Devon decides enough is enough, she shows up to set Simone straight, unaware the "explosive" Labor Day weekend at Michaela's "lavish beach estate" will change everything.

"Sirens is an incisive, sexy, and darkly funny exploration of women, power, and class," the show's official logline says. And you know what? That makes for some great TV. The show is executive produced by LuckyChap's Dani Gorin, Tom Ackerley, and Margot Robbie, as well as Colin McKenna.

And the 'Sirens' cast makes it a standout series.

Netflix

In the Sirens first look, we see Meghann Fahy as Devon, armed with what looks like a fruit basket and a scowl. Here's the full Sirens cast list:

  • Meghann Fahy as Devon DeWitt: Simone's concerned and persistent older sister.
  • Julianne Moore as Michaela Kell: a mysterious philanthropist & animal activist and Simone's boss.
  • Milly Alcock as Simone DeWitt: Devon's witty younger sister who works as Michaela's personal assistant.
  • Kevin Bacon as Peter Kell: Michaela's billionaire husband.
  • Glenn Howerton as Ethan Corbin III: the Kells' wealthy, if indulgent, bachelor neighbor
  • Bill Camp as Bruce DeWitt: Devon and Simone's dad who's dealing with a devastating diagnosis.
  • Felix Solis as Jose: the manager, gardener, and head of security of Cliff House.
  • Josh Segarra as Raymond: Devon's on-again-off-again boyfriend.
  • Trevor Salter as Jordan: the very handsome captain of Ethan's yacht.
  • Britne Oldford as Missy: the Kells' seasonal housekeeper.
  • Lauren Weedman as Patrice: the Kells' strictly-business personal chef.
  • Jenn Lyon as Cloe: the meanest member of "The Fates."
  • Erin Neufer as Lisa: a passionate, zealous part of "The Fates" trio.
  • Emily Borromeo as Astrid: the ditzy third member of "The Fates."

Netflix

And Julianne Moore's Michaela is all grace and poise, especially at home in her lavish estate. “This story has a lot of teeth,” series creator Molly Smith Metzler says in an interview with Tudum. “There are real moments of drama, and it’s going to make people uncomfortable. Operatic is a word I like to use to describe it. It’s a true dark comedy — and it’s got a Greek mythology vibe.”

“Julianne’s just the dream for this role because she does feel ethereal,” she continues. “She’s from another kingdom. She is not a normie.”

Here's when you can watch 'Sirens.'

Netflix

Sirens will stream on Netflix starting May 22, 2025.

How many episodes does Sirens on Netflix have?

Netflix

Sirens has five episodes total, all of which will be an hour long.

Where was Sirens filmed?

Netflix

Sirens was announced in February 2024 and began filming in the North Fork of Long Island, New York over the summer of 2024.

Are you excited to watch Sirens this summer? Stay tuned for the latest news and read up on why Apple TV's New Thriller Show Cape Fear Will Hold You Over Until Big Little Lies Season 3.

Much like its main characters, The Buccaneers hit the Apple TV+ scene with flash and fervor. We fell in love with the St. George sisters, longing to see them find romance and (more importantly) true happiness by any means necessary. We embraced each girl in all their messy, shocking, period drama glory. We watched until the very end, desperately wanting more! And after the popularity of the first season, it's no wonder the network renewed this dreamy show for a second season.

Keep reading for the latest news. (Note: This contains spoilers about season one's finale!)

Here's everything we know about The Buccaneers season 2, coming to Apple TV+ this summer.

Where can I watch Buccaneers season 2?

Apple TV+

The Buccaneers Season 2 Release Date

The Buccaneers season 2 will premiere on Apple TV+ June 18, 2025. Apple shared this exciting BTS clip of our new favorite Regency Era stars having the time of their lives. It's just the boost we need to get through another week!

Who's in the season 2 cast?

Apple TV+

The Buccaneers Season 2 Cast

All our favorite cast members are returning for season 2 — and we'll also see Leighton Meester! “I was so happy to come on to play any role!" Leighton told TV Insider. "That being said, this is the best possible role that I could have ever asked for, and it’s going to be a secret until it comes out. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.”

Here's the full Buccaneers season 2 cast list:

  • Josie Totah as Mabel Elmsworth
  • Aubri Ibrag as Lizzy Elmsworth
  • Kristine Frøseth as Nan St. George
  • Imogen Waterhouse as Jinny St. George
  • Barney Fishwick as Lord James Seadown
  • Guy Remmers as Theo
  • Josh Dylan as Lord Richard Marable
  • Mia Threapleton as Honoria Marable
  • Alisha Boe as Conchita Glosson
  • Leighton Meester

What happens in The Buccaneers season 2?

Apple TV+

The Buccaneers Season 2 Plot

We shouldn't be so pressed to discover easter eggs about season 2 of The Buccaneers, but we are! Thankfully Kristine Frøseth revealed the ways she differs from her character Nan St. George and what viewers can expect to see. Though Nan is often seen wearing corsets, Kristine prefers a more casual look. "She's very constricted," the actress said of her character (via People).

In terms of what to expect this season, Kristine didn't reveal season 2's plot (sorry fans). She did say, however, the characters won't be in close proximity like they were in season 1: "I think our characters just are a little bit more separated so we're not seeing each other as much. Last time, we all lived in the same building and it felt like college, and now our storylines are a little bit more spread out...I think that's the biggest change."

How does Katherine Jakeways feel about the series' renewal?

Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images

We had the opportunity to speak with series creator Katherine Jakeways,and she shared her enthusiasm about creating such a riveting period drama. "We're really excited for people to sort of get to know the world of it and meet these women and experience the female friendship of it," she says, hoping viewers "come out of it going, 'Wow these do feel like people that I know."

Now that The Buccaneers is renewed for another season, she told Apple TV+, "We know season one left audiences desperate to know what’s next for our buccaneers, so I’m absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to explore the further adventures of this smart, joyful, messy sisterhood.”

What did Apple TV+'s Europe Creative Director say about the new upcoming season?

Apple TV+

In the same press release, Jay Hunt admitted, "...we’re excited to be working with Katherine Jakeways and The Forge again on the next adventure for Nan and her friends." If you ask us, it sounds season two of The Buccaneers is off to a great start!

What happened in the season finale of The Buccaneers?

Apple TV+

Viewers watch as Nan St. George took a step back in order for her sister Jinny to have a chance to be happy. This leaves her in the position to move forward with her marriage to Theo, Duke of Tintagel, but it appears she her birth mother may be closer than she realized. Our other characters — like Mabel and Honoria — are left to decide how they want to live their lives as well.

It was a shocking cliffhanger and we can see why fans are thirsty for more.

Where can I watch "The Buccaneers" Season 1?

Apple TV+

All eight episodes of The Buccaneers are available to stream on Apple TV+. Just be sure to bake a few warm dessert recipes and grab a glass of wine to have while you binge watch them.

For more entertainment news, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

This post has been updated.