10 Engaging Activities to Enjoy When the Power Goes Out
From shadow puppets to board games, there are plenty of engaging activities to enjoy when the power goes out.
In this post, we’ll explore 10 exciting ways to make the most of a blackout. Let’s dive in!
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1. Make Shadow Puppets
Shadow puppetry is an ancient form of storytelling and entertainment that uses flat articulated cut-out figures that are held between a source of light and a translucent screen.
All you need to create your own shadow puppet show is a flashlight and your hands. Simply position your hands between the light source and the wall, then change the shape of your hands to create different figures.
For example, you can make a dog by extending your thumb and little finger while keeping the other fingers folded.
Shadow puppets can be a fun way to tell stories and entertain one another. You can create your own characters and narratives, making it a creative and interactive experience.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity for children to engage their imagination and theatrical skills!
2. Play 20 Questions
20 Questions is a classic game of deduction where players take turns asking questions to guess an object, place, or person.
One player thinks of something, and the others try to guess what it is by asking up to 20 yes-or-no questions.
If no one guesses correctly after 20 questions, the first player reveals what they were thinking of.
Playing 20 Questions during a power outage can be a fun and engaging way to pass the time.
It’s a game that requires no equipment, and it can be played with two or more people. Plus, it’s a great way to test your deductive reasoning skills!
3. Go on an Adventure
Power outages can be the perfect excuse to embark on an indoor adventure.
You could organize a treasure hunt around the house, using clues to guide your fellow adventurers to the ‘treasure’.
Alternatively, you could go camping indoors – build a fort out of blankets and cushions and camp out in the living room.
Going on an adventure during a power outage not only helps pass the time, but it also encourages creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Plus, it’s a great way to make some fun memories!
4. Tell Ghost Stories
Telling ghost stories can be a thrilling way to spend time during a power outage.
To make your story more engaging, try to build suspense by slowing down your pace and lowering your voice during tense moments.
Use descriptive language to paint vivid images in the listeners’ minds and remember to make eye contact to draw them into the story.
There’s something uniquely thrilling about sharing ghost stories in the dark, making it an excellent activity for a power outage.
It allows everyone to let their imagination run wild, and the lack of distractions can make the storytelling experience even more immersive.
5. Star Gazing
If the weather permits, a power outage can be an excellent opportunity for star gazing. With less light pollution, you’ll be able to see the stars more clearly.
Try to identify different constellations, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the night sky.
Observing the night sky is a humbling experience that reminds us of our place in the universe. It’s a chance to connect with nature and perhaps even learn a bit about astronomy.
Plus, it’s a peaceful and relaxing activity that can help take your mind off the power outage.
6. Exercise
A power outage can be a great excuse to get some exercise. You could do bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups, or lunges.
Alternatively, you could try yoga or dancing to your favorite songs. Just make sure to do it safely, especially if lighting is limited.
Exercising not only helps pass the time, but it can also boost your mood and energy levels.
Plus, it’s a great way to stay active, even when you’re cooped up inside due to a power outage.
7. Karaoke
You might be wondering how you can have a karaoke session without power. The answer is simple – you don’t need a karaoke machine to have fun!
All you need are some songs that everyone knows the lyrics to. Then, take turns singing your favorite tunes. If you have a battery-operated radio or a fully-charged laptop, you could use these to play music.
Singing out loud with family or friends is a joyful experience that can lift spirits and strengthen bonds. It’s a great way to have fun and forget about the power outage, even if just for a little while.
8. Read a Book
If you have a booklight or a flashlight, you can use these to read a book during a power outage.
Alternatively, you could use the light from a candle, although you should always be careful when using candles to avoid fire hazards.
Choose a book that suits your mood – perhaps a thrilling mystery to keep you on the edge of your seat, or a comforting favorite to help you relax.
Reading during a power outage can be a unique and immersive experience. With fewer distractions, you can really lose yourself in the story.
Plus, reading by flashlight or candlelight can add an element of coziness and charm to your reading experience.
9. Play Board Games
Board games are a classic way to pass the time during a power outage.
From strategy games like chess and Risk to family favorites like Monopoly and Scrabble, there’s a board game to suit everyone’s preferences.
Just make sure to play near a light source so you can see the game board clearly.
Playing board games during a power outage can be a fun and engaging experience.
The flickering candlelight adds to the atmosphere, making the game feel even more epic. Plus, it’s a great way to promote healthy competition and teamwork among family members or friends.
10. Try Hand Sewing
Hand sewing is a useful skill that can also be a fun way to pass the time during a power outage.
You could mend clothes, create a simple craft, or even start a bigger project like a quilt. All you need is a needle, some thread, and material.
Sewing not only allows you to create something beautiful or useful, but it can also be a therapeutic activity that helps you relax and focus.
Plus, it’s a productive way to spend your time during a power outage.
FAQs about Things To Do When The Power Goes Out
How do I entertain myself during a power outage?
There are many ways to entertain yourself during a power outage. You could read a book, play board games, do some crafting, tell stories, or even go on an indoor adventure.
The key is to see the power outage as an opportunity to try something different and have fun.
What do you do if your power runs out?
If your power runs out, the first thing you should do is check whether it’s just your home that’s affected or if it’s a larger outage.
If it’s just your home, check your circuit breaker. If it’s a larger outage, report it to your local power company.
Then, use the time to engage in activities that don’t require electricity, like the ones listed in this blog post.
What can we use when there is no electricity?
When there’s no electricity, you can use flashlights or candles for light. For cooking, you can use a gas stove or a grill.
Battery-powered or hand-crank radios can provide news updates. And remember, many activities, like reading or playing games, can be done without electricity.
How long can my refrigerator go without power?
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, food in the refrigerator will stay cold for about four hours if the door is kept closed, and a full freezer will keep its temperature for about 48 hours.
It’s important to minimize opening the fridge or freezer during a power outage to keep the temperature inside as low as possible.
