7 fun beginner-friendly hobbies to start in the new year

If your resolution is to pick up a new hobby in the new year, here is a great place to start!

I view my hobbies as outlets for creating and and communing with others. That’s why my go-to is a local ceramics class to get the best of both worlds.

Keep reading for 7 beginner-friendly activities to try in the new year.

1. Arts + crafts

You may not think you’re an “artist,” but these fun classes are perfect for getting started:

• Latte and Learn or Art Journaling Class with Studio 127 | $15-35
• Paint and Sip at Pinot’s Palette | $32-45
• Paint your partner/friend night every Friday at Lowe Mill Studio 270 | $45
• Water Color Sketching + more adult classes at Huntsville Museum of Art | $240 for 6 classes

Find more art classes at Lowe Mill or Huntsville Museum of Art.

2. Ceramics

My favorite hobby has been wheel thrown ceramics classes at the Vessel.

Over several weeks, learn the basics of pottery and walk away with unique, handmade pieces. Personally, I love getting to know my classmates and cheering each other on each week.

Check out our video roundup exploring local studios offering ceramics courses.

3. Dancing

There are several dance communities to get plugged in to—I personally have loved doing free salsa and swing dance classes.

• Electric Belle at Stovehouse: West Coast Swing Dance
  • Tuesdays 6:30-10PM | FREE
• Saturn Space Jive Dance at Lowe Mill: Hip Hop, Swing Dance, International Folk Dance + more
  • Wednesdays-Saturdays | $15/class
• Baila Huntsville: Salsa and Bachata
  • First time students get $20 off 4-week classes
• Southern Elegance Dance Studio: Ballroom Dancing

4. Group fitness

A great way to ease into being more active is with group fitness classes.

Check out our reel featuring 4 classes to try under $25. An affordable try-it class is a great way to find what excites you.

5. Silent Book Club

A low-pressure way to ease back into reading: Silent Book Club. It is what it sounds like—a group of strangers joining to read in silence (with no assignments or deadlines) with an optional social hour.

• Where: Backstage at The Orion Amphitheater
• When: Wednesdays Jan. 29, Feb. 26 + Mar. 26 5:30-7PM
• How much: FREE
• More info

If you need help finding some new books to read, head to Huntsville’s local bookstores.

6. Rock Climbing

Now is the best time to try rock climbing at High Point Climbing. With beginner classes and helpful staff, High Point is the perfect spot to try this fun, adventurous sport.

• Where: High Point Climbing at MidCity + Lincoln Mill
• New Year Membership Sale: $0 start-up fee + FREE second month (no full membership dues until March)
  • Sign up through Jan. 31
• Additional amenities include: Gym, yoga room, beginner climbing courses, fitness classes + more

7. Exploring Huntsville + supporting local

Our team shared our 2025 “ins” and at the top of our list is being a tourist in your own city (aka supporting local).

Here are some easy ways you can start exploring Huntsville more:

• Complete a Downtown Huntsville Craft Trail
• Start buying your everyday essentials locally
• Dine at local versions of chain restaurants
• Spend time in nature
• Follow Hville Blast to stay in-the-know

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