Winter Hygee

Published on February 01, 2022

Hygee: pronounced hue-gah, this Danish word describes a level of coziness which enables a sense of well-being and contentment.

Let’s face it. Winter can drag on for quite a while, and in Kansas, it can be sunny and 75 in November or below zero with blizzard conditions in February. In the beginning of winter, we’re all looking forward to sipping hot cocoa by the fire, and curling up with a good book. As the weeks fade into months, we start getting twitchy for sun and spring again, and we desperately need to get out and explore.

But we don’t have to wait for 75 and sunny to bring about feelings of happiness. Channel your inner hygee and check out Merriam’s winter warm fuzzies below!

1. Snuggle up with a new BFF. Adopt, don’t shop, and find your furever friend at Merriam’s Great Plains SPCA.
2. Hit the trail for some Vitamin D, fresh air and your daily step count. Merriam’s Turkey Creek Streamway Trail is a paved path of nearly five miles running from the access point at 75^th & West Frontage Road all the way to Antioch.
3. Pick a park and explore away. Winter is a great time of year to peep the wildlife, winter foliage and quiet outdoor spaces. Merriam has ten parks—pick a new one each week to explore or see pages 24-25 in the Merriam Visitor Guide for a take-along park guide.
4. Coffee + Art. Grab a warm coffee from Caribou and then trek around town to see Merriam’s impressive art collection. Click here for a full list!
5. Take a class, start a new fitness routine or sign up for a fun, new workshop at the Merriam Community Center. Staff pick: Succulent Time--Planting Party + Wine. Learn more here.

If all else fails and you’re still longing for those climbing temps, go ahead and sip more hot cocoa by the fire with a good book. Spring will be here before you know it.