Affordable Indoor Entertainment Options To Keep You Busy All Winter

It can be hard enough in winter to find ways to stay entertained if the weather is cold and with the daylight disappearing earlier and earlier. Add the COVID-19 pandemic to the mix, with some public health departments encouraging people not to mix with other households and to keep nonessential outings to a minimum, and winter can get very long and boring very fast.

Fortunately, there are numerous affordable ways to stay entertained, from channels offering premium content to activity kits and subscription boxes that will deliver fun to your doorstep. Here we offer six ways to entertain yourself at home without breaking the bank.

Disney+ is not just for kids. “Star Wars” lovers can catch their favorite films, including the new show “The Mandalorian;” musical lovers can watch the Broadway hit “Hamilton;” all Disney’s classic and contemporary animated films are available as well as many big blockbuster movies. Also, consider Hulu for $5.99 per month or Netflix for $8.99 per month.

Board games are an excellent way to bring old-fashioned entertainment and family bonding. This subscription box by Unboxboardom can help get your family off screens and around the table by bringing you the newest board games, right to your door. Or, if you don’t want a subscription service, you can find tried and true board games on Amazon, such as Monopoly for $19 or Scrabble for $14.39.

Feeling cooped up inside due to the coronavirus, get out virtually with Explore.org’s live cam network, which offers livestreams around the world in such places as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Habitats include ocean life, wildcat rescues and so much more.

For the music lovers among you, you can stream the experience of karaoke right in your own home with Kara Fun’s Karaoke subscription service. With dozens of playlists, from classic rock to one-hit wonders the simple app makes karaoke fun, seamless and a great way to pass the time.

The pandemic has had a profound effect on people’s creativity. Many people are taking up crafts they always wanted to try, and Crate Joy is here to spark inspiration and provide the tools to do it with. Starting at as little as $12 per month, you can learn to knit, learn the Japanese art of Kitsune ($34.99 per month) or purchase a themed box of kids art ideas ($25 per month) and many more in between. Or, you can purchase an art kit ($19.96) or knitting starter kit on Amazon for $44.99.

Netflix’s hit show “Nailed It” features amateur bakers competing to make “the least disastrous creation,” according to the show’s website. “Nailed It! At Home” allows viewers to participate as well, by receiving a baking kit to make the same items alongside the show contestants. Ticket prices vary depending on the challenge but can be as little as $39.99. Amazon also offers DIY baking kits, such as cake pops ($34.99) and the Chocolate Bar Maker ($32.99).

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