Whether you’re back home with the family this winter or keeping your apartment in order, your usual winter break activities might not be the safest option this year. With two long months of leisure time, free of deadlines and assignments, you might find yourself with a little too much time on your hands. Here are activities you can explore over break:

1. Start a journal – There’s been a lot to process this year, and writing can help make sense of your thoughts and feelings. Even if you don’t enjoy putting pen to paper, try spending 10 minutes a day typing a quick note on your phone. You might be surprised by what finds the page. Prompt number one: Things you’re looking forward to on Rocky Top for 2023.
2. Watch all the holiday episodes of your favorite TV show – Pick a streaming service and grab some popcorn for a trip down memory lane with our favorite classics. Michael Scott and Jess Day may not have experienced a pandemic, but they’ve seen a holiday season or seven.
3. Make a charcuterie board – Cheese and crackers never looked so good! Can you create a delicious masterpiece with only big orange items? Show us your skills and tag @UTKnoxville with your tasty spread.
4. Rest – This past semester was a marathon. Kick back, sleep in, and take all the naps over the break. You’ve earned it.
5. Write letters to your friends – In our ever-increasingly virtual world, a handwritten note carries new weight. Make someone’s day by writing a thoughtful letter or sending a creative postcard.
6. Plan a family game night – Candyland is infinitely more fun (and competitive) as an adult. Gather your family and see who reigns supreme during a classic game night! Need a virtual version? There are plenty of games you can modify over Zoom, like 20 Questions, Scattergories, Heads Up!, and more.
7. Volunteer – Get in the holiday spirit by spreading some Volunteer spirit! The Jones Center for Leadership and Service has a host of resources to connect you with service both locally and virtually. Check out the ServeUTK calendar for volunteer opportunities.
8. Invest in self-care – We all relieve stress in different ways. Take some time for yourself over the break and schedule your favorite things. It’s important, now more than ever, to care for your health physically, mentally, and emotionally.
9. Go on a tour de lights – December brings out the best in holiday décor, and your local park or town hall is eagerly awaiting your return. Take a spin around the neighborhood and search for the best light display. (We’re partial to orange and white).
10. Become a plant parent – Having a houseplant has been shown to boost your mood and improve air quality. Pick out a succulent from a local nursery or research houseplant options to fit your needs. You can even bring them back to campus in January.
11. Read for fun – It’s a novel idea, but there once was a time when you read for fun rather than for school. Pick up that book that’s been hanging out on the shelf this past fall or support a local business by purchasing one online.
12. Cheer on the Vols – Basketball season is here and, boy, it’s great to be a Tennessee Vol! The season will look different this year, but Vol Nation is ready. A limited number of student tickets are available online. Keep up with the teams by following @Vol_Hoops and @LadyVol_Hoops.