10 Winter Staycation Ideas for Your Holiday Break

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

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.