✨ 11 Trends To Do With Friends

Alright, besties, gather ’round! Ever feel like your group chat is just a never-ending loop of ‘what do you wanna do’ and ‘idk, what do you wanna do?’ Yeah, been there, bought the matching friendship bracelet. But fear not, because I’ve scoured the interwebs and consulted my crystal ball (aka my highly curated TikTok feed) to bring you the freshest, most giggle-inducing trends that are practically begging for a group outing. Ditch the boring dinner plans and let’s make some memories that aren’t just screenshots of your takeout order.

1. DIY Pottery Painting

Unleash your inner artist, or at least your inner chaos agent. Grab your crew and head to a local pottery studio. You get to pick a piece – mug, plate, a questionable sculpture – and go wild with the paint. It’s less about skill and more about the hilarious stories you’ll tell trying to make a perfectly symmetrical swirl. Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to embrace the abstract. A wonky bowl just has character, right? You leave with a tangible (and probably hilarious) souvenir of your friendship.

2. Themed Potluck Dinner Party

Elevate your usual potluck from ‘random dishes’ to ‘culinary masterpiece’ (or at least, a very fun attempt). Pick a theme – anything from “foods that are only one color” to “dishes inspired by your favorite 90s movie.” Everyone brings a dish that fits the bill. Bonus points for dressing up. Pro Tip: Assign categories (appetizer, main, dessert) to avoid 10 different kinds of dip. It sparks creativity, reduces hosting stress, and guarantees some interesting taste tests.

3. Outdoor Movie Night Extravaganza

Forget the stuffy cinema; it’s time for some al fresco cinematic magic. All you need is a projector, a white sheet or wall, and a serious commitment to snacks. Pile up the blankets and pillows in your backyard or a local park (check rules first!). Pick a classic, a cheesy horror flick, or a new release. Pro Tip: Bug spray is your best friend. Seriously, don’t forget it unless you want to be the main course. Cozy vibes, fresh air, and a unique way to enjoy a movie together.

4. Thrift Store Challenge

Who needs fast fashion when you can raid the racks for vintage gold? Set a budget (say, $20) and a theme (e.g., “ugly sweater,” “first date outfit,” “celebrity lookalike”). Hit up a few thrift stores with your pals. The goal is to create the most fabulous, ridiculous, or on-theme outfit possible. Pro Tip: Don’t just look in your size; oversized items can be styled in surprising ways. It’s sustainable, hilarious, and you might actually find some hidden gems.

5. Group Fitness Class Adventure

Sweat, laugh, and maybe even discover a new passion (or just a new muscle ache). Sign up for a unique fitness class together. Think beyond spin – try aerial yoga, a hip-hop dance class, or even goat yoga if you’re feeling adventurous. The shared struggle is a bonding experience, trust me. Pro Tip: Pick something outside your comfort zone; the awkwardness just adds to the fun. Boosts endorphins, provides endless inside jokes, and you’re technically being healthy.

6. Board Game Cafe Takeover

Ditch the screens and embrace the glorious, competitive world of tabletop gaming. Find a local board game cafe – they usually have a massive library of games and often serve snacks and drinks. From quick card games to epic strategy sagas, there’s something for every group dynamic. Prepare for some friendly rivalries. Pro Tip: Don’t pick a game that takes three hours to explain unless everyone is really committed. Encourages interaction, strategic thinking, and a healthy dose of competitive banter.

7. Picnic with a View

Elevate your lunch break into a picturesque, Instagram-worthy moment. Pack a basket with your favorite snacks, drinks, and a comfy blanket. Scout out a scenic spot – a park with a city skyline, a lakeside bench, or a secluded garden. It’s simple, yet incredibly refreshing. Pro Tip: Bring a portable speaker for some chill background tunes. Low effort, high reward for relaxation and good conversation.

8. Escape Room Challenge

Test your teamwork, problem-solving skills, and ability to not panic under pressure. Book an escape room with your friends. You’ll be locked in a themed room and have to solve puzzles and riddles to “escape” within a time limit. It’s a fantastic way to see how well you all work together (or don’t!). Pro Tip: Designate a leader, but encourage everyone to shout out ideas. No bad ideas when you’re racing the clock! Adrenaline-pumping fun that truly highlights group dynamics.

9. DIY Cocktail or Mocktail Workshop

Become master mixologists without the hefty bar tab. Gather your ingredients – spirits, mixers, fresh fruits, herbs, fancy garnishes – and look up some recipes online. Everyone takes turns crafting their signature drink. Make it a competition for the best-tasting or most aesthetically pleasing concoction. Pro Tip: Have non-alcoholic options available so everyone can participate in the fun. Delicious drinks, creative expression, and a chance to learn a new skill.

10. Volunteering Day Out

Give back to the community while building even stronger bonds. Find a cause you all care about – an animal shelter, a community garden, a food bank, or beach cleanup. Spend a few hours volunteering together. It’s incredibly rewarding and a great way to put your collective energy to good use. Pro Tip: Research organizations ahead of time to find one that aligns with your group’s interests and availability. Fosters altruism, creates shared purpose, and leaves you all feeling good.

11. Scenic Hike and Photo Shoot

Get some fresh air, stunning views, and capture those perfect candid moments. Pick a local trail with beautiful scenery. Pack water, snacks, and your phone (or a proper camera if you’re feeling fancy). Enjoy the walk, chat, and stop frequently for impromptu photo shoots. Embrace the goofy poses. Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and check the weather forecast before you head out. Nature therapy, exercise, and a treasure trove of new profile pictures.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! No more staring blankly at your phones, wondering what to do. These trends are practically begging for you and your favorite humans to dive in headfirst and make some unforgettable memories. Whether you’re getting crafty, getting competitive, or just getting outside, the most important trend is always spending quality time with your chosen family. Now go forth and conquer those friendship goals – your group chat (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.