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I am pretty sure that it's safe to assume that you have felt bored at least once this week, and that's totally normal. A friend of mine contacted me a couple of nights ago complaining that she and her hubby were finding their evenings very boring.
They both had stressful jobs and found it difficult to relax when they got home, which led to feelings of boredom. Now that's something no couple wants to feel.
If you're feeling the same way and don't know what to do when bored at night, then you're in luck because I have put together 61 fun things to do when you're bored at night.
But before we get to the fun bit, let's take a closer look at boredom and its signs.
What Is Boredom?
Boredom is, in its essence, an emotion that comes from being uninterested in a particular activity (or lack of activity).
It usually presents itself when dopamine (a neurotransmitter) levels are low. With boredom comes the feeling that time is moving too slowly and the things you try to take part in just don't seem to pique your interest.
Boredom goes hand-in-hand with feelings of weariness and lack of enthusiasm. People who feel bored often feel like their lives are dull and uneventful when it's more a state of mind that the person is experiencing at that time, and the feeling usually passes.
Boredom isn't all that bad. In fact, when it comes to children, they must experience some level of boredom. This is how imagination and creative play develop. If the kids were permanently stimulated, they wouldn't need to use their imaginations to keep them occupied.
Obvious Signs of Boredom
There are 5 different types of boredom: indifference, searching, reactive, calibrating and apathetic boredom. These forms of boredom affect everyone differently. Some people may become grumpy, while others slip into a depression.
Let's take a look at some of the obvious signs of boredom:
61 Fun Things to Do When You're Bored at Night
So, before I bore you with all the theories behind boredom, here are 61 fun things to do when you're bored at night. I've divided the ideas into different categories to make things more interesting.
Creative Things to Do
1. Design Polymer Clay Jewelry
Jewelry can be expensive to buy, and sometimes it’s hard to find exactly what you’re looking for. Designing your own jewelry out of polymer clay is fun and stress-relieving after a long day.
2. Make a Vision Board
They say that some of our most creative ideas come from boredom, so why not create a vision board? There are so many ways to do this: cut out images from magazines or design one on your computer.
3. Loom Knit a Slouchy Beanie
Snuggling up on your favorite chair and knitting something warm is a great way to fight boredom. Loom knitting is easy and requires little concentration, as you don't need to count your stitches.
4. Design a Photobook
There are so many photobook design apps available online (or on your phone). Go through your photos and put together a stunning photo book to showcase your memories.
Pro Tip: If your children's school artwork is lying in a box, simply scan it and turn it into a photobook. Voila! No more clutter—and a beautiful keepsake.
5. Make Homemade Paper
Making homemade paper is a fabulous way to recycle old paper, giving it a lovely texture. You can add things like dried herbs and flowers to your paper pulp, and it's really easy to do.
6. Make a Dreamcatcher
Why not try your hand at making dreamcatchers? They make fantastic gifts, and you can design them any way you like. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to get you started.
7. Start a YouTube Channel
Trust me. Social media broadcasting is easier than you think. If you have a topic you're passionate about, set up your cellphone on a tripod and talk to the camera. Maybe it's a hit, and you can make some money with this side hustle.
8. Start a Hobonichi Journal
Planning your day in a Hobonichi journal is so rewarding. The paper is made from Tomoe River paper which is soft to the touch and aesthetically pleasing. Add stickers and washi tape to give it some character.
9. Sign up for a Creative Writing Class
Nighttime is the perfect time to get those creative ideas flowing. Enjoy a cup of coffee (or tea) while you follow along with a creative writing course.
10. Build Lego
One of the biggest cures for boredom is building Lego. Even better is that Lego has unique adult Lego sets that cater to everyone's interests, from Star Wars to the hit television show Friends.
Action-Packed Things to Do
11. Go to the Arcade
If you're wondering what to do when bored at night, then consider heading out to the arcade to play some games (invite a friend along). This is a great way to get out and about while having fun.
12. Play VR (Virtual Reality) Games
Playing virtual reality games certainly gets the heart pumping, and there will be no room for boredom. There are plenty of thriller games and action-packed games to choose from.
13. Have a Pillow Fight
Being spontaneous is also a great way to curb boredom at night. Pick a good-sized pillow and enjoy a pillow fight with your partner or friend. Laughter, fun, and a healthy dose of competitiveness are guaranteed.
14. Play Pool
Call up a friend and challenge them to a game of pool. If you don't have a pool table at home, head out to a local game area or restaurant with one. This is a fun way to change up your nightly routine.
15. Tae Bo Workout
Doing a Tae Bo workout relieves stress, improves posture, and leaves you feeling fantastic afterward. This is a great way to burn energy, and taking a hot shower or bath afterward to relax those muscles just seals the deal.
16. Play Laser Tag
If you're looking for the perfect game to play at night, you must try laser tag. Think paintball shooting meets infrared light-emitting guns. It's all of the fun without the pain.
17. Go Dancing
If you're feeling bored at night, slip on your dancing shoes and go out dancing. If you have two left feet, join a dancing class. There are so many different styles to try out.
18. Go to the Movies
Going to the movies is a great way to get out of the house for an hour or two and relax. Check out your local movie theater and pick a film you're in the mood for (plus, there's popcorn and milk duds). Invite a friend along for some company.
19. Take A Night Walk
You'd be surprised at how different a walk can look at night. There are different sounds, it's peaceful, and it gives you time to clear your head.
If you're in the mood, you can also take a casual jog around the block.
20. Play Capture the Lantern
This is a fantastic way to blast boredom. Phone some friends and organize a game of capture the lantern. Don't make the area too big so that you can find the lantern fairly easily. Remember, the first one that captures the lantern wins.
Chilled and Relaxing Things to Do
21. Read a Comic
If you enjoy reading books, but you don't have the energy to commit to one right now, why not pick up a comic? This is a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day at the office, and the storylines are brilliant.
22. Make a Mini Zen Garden
Making a mini Zen garden at home is a beautiful, mindful activity. It's easy to do, and the rewards are amazing. Making patterns in soft sand is therapeutic and helps you meditate as the day ends.
23. Listen to Some Good Tunes
Even though you are bored, you may not feel like visiting or having visitors. Listen to some good tunes instead and enjoy being alone for a while.
24. Rewatch a Favorite Movie
I don't know about you, but I have some favorite movies that I enjoy watching every now and then. The great thing about this is you know what you're in for, and you know the film won't be a letdown.
25. Practice Some Breathwork
Clear a space in your lounge or bedroom (or head out into the garden under the stars) and empty your mind of any thoughts. Forget about your busy day as you practice some simple breathwork techniques.
26. Read a Novel
Have an early night and climb into bed with a good novel. If you have a big TBR (to be read) list, this is a great way to relax and start ticking off your list.
27. Listen to an Audiobook
Another way to enjoy a good book is to listen to the audiobook version. This allows you to get chores around the house done while you get lost in the storyteller's voice. Scribd has an excellent variety of audiobooks and ebooks to choose from.
28. Give Yourself a Foot Treatment
It's good to take time out of your busy day and pamper yourself. Fill up the foot spa (or a bucket) with warm water, add some foot spa crystals to the water, and soak your feet. Pat your feet dry and give yourself a well-deserved foot massage.
29. Take Your Dog for a Walk
If you're running out of ideas on what to do when bored at night, why not take your dog for a walk around the block? This will give you some fresh air and exercise while bonding with your four-legged friend.
30. Water the Garden
I find that simply going out into the garden often cures my boredom. There is always something that needs tending to, and watering your garden at night is good for the plants as it revitalizes them after a hot day (plus the water doesn't evaporate as quickly).
Entertaining Things to Do
31. Host a Virtual Movie Party
Hosting a virtual movie party is a great way to enjoy a movie with your friends late at night. All you need is a chat platform like Skype or Zoom, a good movie title, some popcorn and refreshments, and then to press play at the same time.
32. Set up a Zoom Chat
Having a Zoom chat with your family or friends is always a fun way to stay connected. You'll be able to see one another's faces and talk about any topics you want.
33. Join an Online Book Club
There are plenty of online book clubs around on Instagram and Facebook. Find one that caters to your likes and enjoy the book community.
34. Play Monopoly
Monopoly is a fun board game to play at home when you’re bored. This real-estate game can be ruthless and cunning at times. You also have the option to play online against virtual players.
35. Scroll through Social Media
Sometimes just scrolling through your socials is entertaining enough. People often post the most random things that are good for a laugh or an emotional cry.
36. Learn a TikTok Dance
If you have a TikTok account, why don't you learn a TikTok dance (and no, this isn't just for the kids)? Do yourself a favor and check out some of the trends on TikTok. Even the elderly rock their 40 seconds in the limelight.
37. Duet a Video with Someone
Another fun boredom buster is to duet a video with someone. Basically, you post your video side by side with another user or celebrity. You may even catch a celebrity like Lewis Capaldi's attention with your singing voice.
38. Play Xbox
Whip out the Xbox (or PlayStation) and enjoy an hour or two of gaming. You can also set up a LAN (Local Area Network) for multiple players to play against one another.
39. Binge-Watch a Top 10 Series
Sign into Netflix (or any other streaming platform) and pick one of their top 10 series.
Set yourself up with some tasty snacks and refreshments and binge-watch the series (or at least try to).
40. Go to an Open Mic Night
Check your socials and find an open mic night if you're feeling bored at night. This is an excellent way to get out of the house and immerse yourself in new and local talent.
Rewarding Things to Do
41. Tally up Your Coins
A great way to keep yourself occupied is by collecting all the coins lying around in your bag, wallet, and house. You may be shocked to find out how much money has been lying around.
42. Sign up for a Quick Course
If you want something to do that will stimulate your brain, sign up for a quick 2-week or 3-week course. This will provide you with new skills and give your brain a good workout.
43. Test Out Games
Do you want to make money while playing games? Fabulous! Then you need to get onto a platform that allows you to test out new games, provide honest feedback, and make some extra cash on the side.
44. Work on Cars
Working on cars after hours is another way to make extra money while doing something you love. Make this a hobby and not a chore.
45. Write Short Stories
Everyone has a story to tell, so why don't you share yours with others? So many platforms are available where you can share your writing and receive constructive feedback.
46. Go Night Fishing
Enjoy a night out by going night fishing. Catching fish by moonlight is a different experience and can be fun. You can turn it into a camping trip as well.
47. Book Reviews
If you enjoy reading and have some good books on your shelf, why not post book reviews on your socials? It's a great way to share your love of reading with others.
48. Fill in a Gratitude Journal
Writing in a gratitude journal is a lovely way to focus your thoughts and end your day. Besides, it also reminds you of everything you must be grateful for.
49. Update Your LinkedIn Profile
It's a good idea to hop onto LinkedIn and give it a little update. Plenty of tips and tricks are available on YouTube and TikTok to improve your profile.
50. Do Some DIY Maintenance
There’s no time like the present to do some DIY maintenance at home, especially when you’re bored at night.
Tasty Things to Do
51. Prepare Soup Jars
Soup jars are the best, and preparing them is even more satisfying. Do your prep at night and enjoy hot soup at the office the following day.
52. Go Out for Dinner
If you have nothing to do and don't feel like cooking dinner, head out to a local restaurant and enjoy a good meal with friends and family.
53. Smoothie Prep
Preparing your smoothies at night saves so much time for the mad rush in the morning. Dice up your favorite fruit and freeze it in freezer bags.
54. Create a Foodie Instagram Page
Creating a foodie Instagram page is a nice way to stay motivated to eat healthily and to share your love of food with others.
55. Bake a Sourdough Bread
Learn how to bake sourdough bread, and you can make delicious sandwiches with it the next day. Sourdough also freezes well.
56. Make Your Own Spaghetti Noodles
Surprise your partner with a tasty spaghetti bolognese. The cherry on top is that you have made the spaghetti noodles yourself, which will score you brownie points in the kitchen.
57. Practice Bartending Skills
Fancy yourself a bartender? Why not learn some fun bartending skills and test them out with your friends?
58. Become A Mystery Shopper
Signing up to be a mystery shopper allows you to go for dinners and shopping experiences in return for your honest feedback on services.
You are also given vouchers that you can spend on yourself or friends.
59. Go Restaurant Hopping
How about having starters at one restaurant, mains at another, and ending off at another restaurant for dessert?
60. Host a Fondue Party
Hosting a fondue party is a tasty way to enjoy good food and company. You can have an oil and cheese fondue for dinner and chocolate fondue for dessert.
61. Learn New Sushi Tricks
If you enjoy going out for sushi, you should try making your own at home. Quite a bit of skill is involved, but it's fun and allows you to be creative.
Final Thoughts on Fun Things to Do When You’re Bored at Night
So if you or someone you know finds themselves bored at night, suggest this list of fun things to do. This list caters to everyone's interest and can be done as a solo or group activity. If you're feeling daring, you can tick off each fun thing as you test them out.
No one likes to feel bored, and no one enjoys hearing someone continuously express their boredom. Each activity in this guide provides a sense of fulfillment and motivation to overcome that “I'm so bored” feeling.
If you want more boredom busters, check out the guide on 71 Things to do when you're alone and bored at home. And if you feel like you're in a boredom slump, then try out these 161 inspirational words of encouragement to motivate you.
And if you're looking for more articles about things to do when bored, be sure to check out these blog posts:
- 61 Fun Things & Activities to Do at Home When Bored
- 69 Fun Lists to Make When You Feel Bored
- 27 Funny Memes About Being Bored at Work or Home
