Whelp. It’s that time of year again, where I try to provide some possible distractions from the state of the world (that state can generally be classified as “serious dumpster fire”). I bring some light to the back corners of the internet that still value fun, creativity, and humor. This is my 15th year of doing this, by the way. Enjoy!
- Did you ever fill up jars with multi-colored sand as a kid? This interactive art site lets you use the whole screen as your canvas. Use an infinite number of colors in almost any way you wish (gravity does apply) to create your sandy masterpiece. This is Sand
- Sometimes, the best way to counter the universal dumpster fire is to remember why we’re here. See answers from numerous strangers on the internet, and/or contribute your own. Some answers are poignant, some are just downright funny. What do you live for? Collect the Reasons
- If you truly need something to verify that the state of the world is less than optimal, try Horrorli. Horrorli is a unique noise generator that specializes in sounds that are as creepy AF. Find your favorite combinations to spice up spooky season or just play a realistic soundtrack for the world right now.
- Cast your thoughts out to sea in a paper boat. Experience a range of human emotions while peeking at other people’s boats. Thoughts are moderated, so inappropriate ones are removed Adrift
- It’s hard to say much about this site without giving away the plot, but sometimes you just want to know that not everything is terrible. Check out Have a Dandy Day!
- You’ve probably considered how small a speck you are in the scope of the universe. This interactive experience allows you to explore various scales. If you felt small before, that ain’t nothing to what’s coming. But, if you scroll the other way, you can explore microscopic and sub-atomic scales and make yourself feel a little better. Scale of the Universe
- Do you miss the days of human-curated content suggestions? This site has been around since 2008 (!) and suggests several videos every day worth your time. How could I miss learning about why Pallas’s cats are super grumpy? Wimp
- Baby animal videos. No worries about them jumping on trampolines or other AI-related behaviors. Videos from real zoos and aquariums. Serotonin, here we come. Check out ZooBorns
- Like Wordle? This game gives you six tries to guess the hexadecimal code of a color. Get your inner color geek on and try Colordle (an awkward name at best).
- ‘Tis the season to sit on the couch and binge streaming shows. The question is: can you actually binge the entirety of that show you’re eyeing in the time you have allotted? This site will tell you. Find out on Can I Binge?
- Too cold to go forest bathing? Never fear, this site has you covered with real sounds from forests around the world. Listen at Tree.fm
Want to see lists from previous years?
