Covid Safe Things To Do As A Small Group

Remember those days when "hanging out" meant cramming into someone's tiny apartment, sharing questionable dips, and breathing each other's air like it was the elixir of life? Yeah, things have… shifted.

But fear not, social butterflies! Small group gatherings aren't extinct. They've just evolved. Think less "human petri dish" and more "intentional bonding experience."

Embrace the Great Outdoors: Picnics, Parks, and (Maybe) a Bear Sighting

Who needs a fancy restaurant when you have fresh air and a basket full of snacks? Picnics are the unsung heroes of the pandemic-era social scene.

Find a park, spread out a blanket, and unleash your inner child with some frisbee. Just watch out for rogue squirrels; they're surprisingly aggressive when it comes to sandwiches.

Going further afield, hiking trails offer stunning views and a built-in excuse to be far away from everyone. And hey, maybe you'll even spot a bear (from a safe distance, of course).

Pro Tip: BYOE (Bring Your Own Everything)

Seriously. Plates, cutlery, drinks, sanity. The more self-sufficient you are, the less sharing (and potential germ swapping) you have to do.

Bonus points for personalized, color-coded everything. It's like adult daycare, but with better scenery.

Get Creative: Arts, Crafts, and DIY Disasters

Unleash your inner Bob Ross. Host an art night! Even if your artistic talents peaked in kindergarten, the sheer absurdity of trying to paint a landscape while social distancing can be incredibly entertaining.

Tie-dyeing is another fantastic option. Just be prepared for a potential explosion of color. And maybe wear gloves. Unless you're going for the Smurf look.

If you're feeling ambitious, try a DIY project. Building birdhouses, terrariums or even attempting to reupholster furniture can be a hilarious and potentially disastrous bonding experience.

Warning: Supervision May Be Required (Especially With Power Tools)

Let's be honest, not everyone is naturally gifted with a hammer and nails. Appoint a designated supervisor (preferably someone who owns a first-aid kit) to oversee the proceedings.

And remember, YouTube tutorials are your friend. Unless the tutorial is narrated by someone who sounds like they're building a nuclear reactor. Then, maybe find a different one.

Game On: Board Games, Video Games, and Hilarious Competitions

Dust off those board games that have been languishing in your closet for years! From Monopoly (prepare for potential friendship-ending arguments) to cooperative games like Pandemic (irony not lost), there's a board game for every group.

Video games are another great option. Online multiplayer games allow you to connect with friends from the comfort of your own home (or couch).

For a truly unique experience, try a virtual escape room. Work together to solve puzzles and escape before time runs out. Just try not to blame each other when you fail (because you will).

Embrace the Trash Talk (But Keep it Light)

A little friendly competition never hurt anyone (except maybe their ego). Don't be afraid to engage in some good-natured trash talk.

Just remember to keep it light and fun. Nobody likes a sore loser (or a gloating winner, for that matter).

Culinary Adventures: Cooking Classes, Bake-Offs, and Food-Themed Fun

Turn your kitchen into a culinary playground! A small group cooking class is a fun and educational way to learn new skills and enjoy a delicious meal together.

If you're feeling competitive, host a bake-off! Choose a theme (e.g., chocolate desserts, pies, bread) and let everyone show off their baking prowess.

Alternatively, try a themed potluck. Everyone brings a dish that fits the theme (e.g., Italian night, Mexican fiesta, Asian fusion). Just be sure to communicate dietary restrictions and allergies beforehand.

Don't Be Afraid to Experiment (But Maybe Have a Backup Plan)

Trying new recipes can be a lot of fun, but it's also important to be realistic. Not every dish is going to be a masterpiece.

Have a backup plan in case your culinary creation turns into a disaster. Pizza delivery is always a reliable option.

Movie Nights: Outdoor Screens, Themed Snacks, and Cult Classics

Transform your backyard into an outdoor cinema! Hang a sheet, set up a projector, and gather your friends for a movie night under the stars.

Choose a theme and create snacks to match! For example, serve popcorn and candy for a classic movie, or make themed cocktails for a sophisticated flick.

And don't forget the blankets and pillows! Comfort is key when you're watching a movie outdoors.

Embrace the Silence (Unless You're Making Funny Commentary)

Movie nights are all about relaxing and enjoying the film. Keep the chatter to a minimum, unless you're making witty or insightful commentary.

And please, no spoilers! Nobody likes the person who ruins the ending.

Give Back: Volunteering Together as a Small Unit

Sometimes, the most rewarding social activities are those that benefit others. Volunteering as a small group can be a meaningful and fulfilling experience.

Organize a park cleanup, help out at a local food bank, or visit a senior center. There are countless ways to give back to your community.

And the best part? You'll be making a difference while spending time with your friends. It's a win-win!

Remember, Even Small Acts of Kindness Matter

You don't have to solve all the world's problems to make a difference. Even small acts of kindness can have a big impact.

So, gather your friends and find a way to give back to your community. You'll be glad you did.

Explore Local Hidden Gems: Tourist in Your Own Town

How well do you really know your own city? Probably not as well as you think. Play the tourist and rediscover hidden gems right under your nose.

Visit that quirky museum you've always meant to check out, explore a hidden park, or try a restaurant in a neighborhood you've never been to before.

You might be surprised at what you discover. And you'll have a newfound appreciation for your own city.

Pack Snacks (Just in Case)

Even if you're just exploring your own city, it's always a good idea to pack snacks. You never know when hunger might strike.

And who knows, you might even stumble upon a hidden picnic spot.

Virtual Get-Togethers: For When You Can't Be There in Person

Sometimes, life gets in the way. You're quarantined. Someone is sick. Or, maybe you're just feeling lazy. That’s where virtual get-togethers come in.

Video calls aren't a perfect substitute for in-person interactions, but they're a great way to stay connected with friends when you can't be together physically.

Host a virtual game night, watch a movie together online, or simply chat and catch up. The important thing is to stay connected.

Embrace the Mute Button (Judiciously)

The mute button is your friend. Use it wisely.

Whether it’s to silence barking dogs, screaming children, or your own embarrassing singing, the mute button can save you from countless awkward situations.