Spring break ’stay-cations’

Picnicking is a good way to get out of the house and enjoy sunshine, food and time with friends or family.

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March 5, 2010 • written by Lauren Haley  
Filed under Features

Spring Break is just around the corner, and while some teens will be headed to Cancun or Disney World, the closest others may get to a beach is watching MTV’s “Spring Break.”

For those teens who will be sitting at home over the break, there are some fun alternatives to going out of town.

Camping:
Whether you go out into the woods to set up camp or just put up a tent in the back yard, this stay-cation is ideal for anyone who loves the outdoors. Even if you are not so keen on being outdoors, gathering some friends and roasting marshmallows around a campfire could be the perfect night activity.

Have a movie night:
Pop some popcorn and invite some friends over for a horror movie marathon. Have fun getting scared with all your pals. Do not forget the soda and candy!

Go job hunting:
Who does not like a little extra money in their pockets? Gather some friends and go apply for part-time jobs together. During break, you aill be available to go to an interview anytime during business hours. The job itself may not be fun, but the extra cash will be well worth it.

Go to a concert or game:
If it is not too expensive, buy tickets to a show in Memphis or a Grizzlies game. John Mayer will perform at the FedEx Forum March 19, and the Grizzlies will play the Chicago Bulls March 16.

Do some volunteer work:
Get some friends and go help out at The Ronald McDonald House or check out Habitat for Humanities’ Youth United program. Also, the Bartlett Animal Shelter is always looking for volunteers. This is a great way to get out of the house and get involved in the community. Also, volunteer work looks great on college applications.

Go Downtown:
Go to downtown Memphis with some friends. You can eat at the Hard Rock Cafe and see the exhibits in the University of Memphis Art Museum. You can also go visit the King’s house, Graceland, or The Pink Palace Museum. There are plenty of things for everyone to do downtown.

Go shopping!:
Even those who are running low on cash can have fun window shopping with friends. But for those who do have the money, go ahead and shop for a new spring wardrobe. Thrift and antique stores are great places for those of us who can not splurge on new clothes.

Do a little spring cleaning:
Although cleaning over the break does not sound like the most fun idea, getting organized is a great first step to top grades during the last quarter. No more lost papers in messy binders, no more zeros!

Have a picnic:
Pack lunch in a picnic basket and get some friends to meet up at the park. Spread out a blanket and dig in! Also, take a soccer ball or Frisbee and play a friendly pick-up game.

So, whether it is doing volunteer work or just going window shopping, there is something for all the ’stay-cationers’ out there. No one has to be a bored couch potato all break.