With the semester soon coming to a close, many students will find themselves with more time on their hands. One way to unwind on this break is to start a new show. What is better than a sitcom, with shorter episodes and a strong core cast? They are easy to have as background noise and for a good laugh and levity at times. The following are some fantastic modern sitcoms (that aren’t “Friends” or the American version of “The Office”) to get through the winter months.

1: “Modern Family” (2009-2020)

Though one of the most iconic sitcoms aired, “Modern Family” is a certified classic in the world of sitcoms. Following a large California family, the show provides all the things a good show should: comedy, character development and sobering moments, making it a must-watch. With a large core cast, anyone can find themselves a character to identify with; even with the moments of irritation, there is always humor brought to light in the end. Exploring family dynamics in what would be considered a blended family across 250 episodes, it is an easy (and lengthy) show to watch during the cold winter months.

2: “Superstore” (2015-2021)

A workplace comedy set in Cloud 9, a big box store supposed to be similar to Target or Walmart, follows a group of associates who work at Cloud 9 across the entire run time of the show. America Ferrera leads the show as Amy Sosa, a floor supervisor who has worked at Cloud 9 for years. There are long-running plot points throughout the show that develop across the 113 episodes; however, each episode has its own plot, which also keeps the engagement throughout the show. “Superstore” is great for unwinding after a long retail shift or just after a long day.

3: “Abbott Elementary” (2021-present)

A still running sitcom following teachers at a Philadelphia public school, Abbott Elementary, where the show gets its namesake. Following the overly eager Janine Teagues, played by Quinta Brunson, the show explores teachers working at an underfunded school in Philadelphia. Even with this sitcom’s lighthearted jokes, there are deeper themes explored here with racial disparity in schools as well as funding for public schools. Though these heavier-hitting topics provide the backbone for the plot, the show remains able to provide many light-hearted moments.

4: “Community” (2009-2015)

Set at Greendale Community College, “Community” follows a disbarred attorney, Jeff Winger, played by Joel McHale, who is immediately introduced as an arrogant and almost unlikable main character. This arrogance sets up drastic character development throughout the entirety of the show. This show is not without fault as it has some strange plot lines, but Troy and Abed’s friendship is truly the highlight of the series. Even though it is set at a community college, there is very little class that actually takes place so no need to fear reliving classes over break.

5: “Parks and Recreation” (2009-2015)

Following government workers at the parks department in Pawnee, Indiana, “Parks and Recreation” provides an entertaining side of government work. The show seemingly provides an episode that somehow mirrors the current political landscape perfectly; however, this show diffuses it with humor. One of the best sitcoms of all time, Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, is almost annoying in her pursuit of a better Pawnee, but that is what makes the show so enjoyable. For anyone looking for an entertaining escape from the realities of government, look no further than Pawnee, Indiana’s Parks and Recreation Department.

6: “Ghosts” (2021-present)

A young couple, Samantha and Jay, inherit an old estate and decide to turn it into a bed and breakfast, not knowing it was also home to eight ghosts. The ghosts provide the most humor in the show, each from a different time period, who died on the estate. It is an easy show to throw on in the background or to curl up with this winter.