Let’s be real: sometimes reading about a broody, mountain-man archer in our favorite MM romance books isn't enough. We want to be the archer. Or the spy. Or the soft-hearted gardener raising a brood of queerlings.
As we dive into the best MM romance books 2026 has to offer, a common theme is emerging: hobbies are the new love language. Whether it's the "forced proximity" of a shared pottery wheel or the "slow burn" of solving a complex puzzle, what we do in our downtime defines us. If you’re looking to bring some of that fictional spice into your real life, we’ve rounded up the top 10 queer hobbies that are trending this year.
Grab your bow, your lockpicks (for legal recreational use, of course!), or your favorite e-reader from Read with pride, and let’s get into it.
1. Queer Archery: Finding Your Inner Fantasy Hero
Ever since we saw that one specific cover with the elf and the ranger, we’ve been hooked. Archery isn’t just for fantasy novels anymore. It’s a meditative, focused hobby that’s becoming a staple in the LGBTQ+ community. Groups like Wild Captives have pioneered making the range a safe, inclusive space where you can focus on your form without the traditional hunting vibes. It’s the perfect way to live out your protagonist dreams while working on those shoulder muscles.
2. Locksport: The Heist Trope in Real Life
Lockpicking: or "locksport" as the enthusiasts call it: is the ultimate nerd hobby. It’s about the mechanical puzzle, the click of the tumblers, and that rush of satisfaction when the lock yields. It feels a little bit rebellious and a lot bit intellectual. While there aren't many "Queer Lockpicking Clubs" yet, the locksport community is heavily populated by the same tech-savvy, maker-culture folks who populate our favorite gay romance novels. Just remember the golden rule: only pick locks you own!
3. Community Gardening & Queer Parenting
There is something inherently healing about putting your hands in the dirt. For many in our community, especially those navigating queer parenting, community gardens are a sanctuary. It’s a place to teach the next generation about growth, patience, and the beauty of nature. Plus, "Domestic Bliss" is one of the top-rated tropes for a reason: nothing beats the aesthetic of two dads and a toddler harvesting organic tomatoes together. Explore our Family & Relationships section for more stories that celebrate these moments.
4. Retro Gaming: A Neon Nostalgia Trip
In 2026, we’re seeing a massive resurgence in retro gaming. There’s a specific comfort in 8-bit soundtracks and simple controllers. Whether you’re playing co-op on a vintage console or exploring the vast worlds of modern indie games with queer storylines, gaming is a fantastic way to bond. It’s the "rivals to lovers" trope in a digital arena. Who knew a heated match of Mario Kart could lead to such a heartfelt confession?
5. Sensory Pottery: The "Ghost" Method
If you’ve read any MM fiction featuring a "grumpy/sunshine" duo at an arts-and-crafts retreat, you know exactly why pottery is on this list. It’s tactile, messy, and incredibly intimate. Shaping clay on a wheel requires a level of synchronization that is, frankly, very romantic. It’s a hobby that demands you be present in the moment, making it a great stress-reliever for the modern queer reader.
6. Urban Foraging: The Modern Gatherer
Forget the grocery store. Queer folks are taking to the parks and forests to find everything from wild blackberries to medicinal mushrooms. Foraging is a hobby that combines a love for the outdoors with a deep respect for local ecosystems. It’s also a great way to meet fellow nature lovers. Just make sure you have a reliable field guide: or a boyfriend who’s an expert in botany: before you start snacking on those wild berries.
7. Queer Photography: Capturing the Gaze
Photography is more than just taking a selfie; it’s about how we see the world and each other. The "queer gaze" in photography focuses on vulnerability, strength, and authentic connection. Starting a hobby in photography: whether it’s film or digital: allows you to document the beauty of your own community. It’s the perfect hobby for those who appreciate the visual storytelling found in our Action & Adventure titles.
8. Coding and Cyber-Security
For the hackers and the "technomancers" among us, coding is the ultimate creative outlet. The LGBTQ+ community has a long and storied history in the tech world. Building your own apps, contributing to open-source projects, or even learning about digital security is a way to empower yourself and your community in a digital age. It’s high-stakes, high-reward, and pairs perfectly with a late-night reading session of a gay psychological thriller.
9. Roller Derby: High Energy, High Impact
If you want a hobby that’s as loud and proud as you are, look no further than Roller Derby. It’s a sport built on a foundation of inclusivity and queer identity. It’s fast-paced, physical, and involves some of the coolest nicknames you’ll ever hear. Roller Derby is less a hobby and more of a chosen family: complete with the grit and drama of a top-tier MM romance.
10. The Ultimate Hobby: The MM Book Club
Of course, we couldn't end this list without the hobby that brings us all together: the book club. In 2026, queer book clubs are more popular than ever, moving beyond just reading to include themed dinners, cosplay, and even weekend retreats. Discussing the latest gay love stories with people who get it is a form of self-care. It’s where we analyze tropes, swoon over protagonists, and find our own community.
At Readwithpride.com, we believe that the stories we read should reflect the lives we live: hobbies and all. Whether you’re picking a lock or picking up a bow, make sure you have a great book waiting for you when you’re done.
Ready to find your next obsession? Check out our latest collections and join the conversation on our socials!
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