Embrace the Season: Fun Winter Activities for Kids (and Parents!) to Enjoy

4 min
Dec 1, 2023

Cozy up by the fireside or enjoy the excitement the cold weather brings. Whether you enjoy seasonal activities inside or out, we have the best list of winter activities for kids, big and small! 

The winter season is upon us, and whether the colder temperatures make you want to hibernate indoors or enjoy thrilling outdoor activities, you can enjoy family time all season long. Winter offers a unique opportunity to bond, have fun, and create lasting memories. So, bundle up in your warmest gear, grab some hot cocoa, and let's explore a list of wonderful winter activities that the whole family can enjoy.

 

Outdoor Activities:

It’s important to get outside and play, even in the winter. There's no shortage of fun and adventure waiting for you outside. Bundle up, breathe in the crisp winter air, and create lasting memories as you explore the great outdoors together.

1. Ice Skating:

One of the quintessential winter activities is ice skating. Whether it's at an indoor rink or a frozen pond, gliding gracefully on ice is a fantastic way to spend quality time with your family. Most rinks offer rental skates, making it accessible for everyone, regardless of their skating ability.

2. Sledding:

Sledding down a snowy hill is an exhilarating experience for kids and adults alike. All you need is a sled and a snowy slope, and you're in for a thrilling ride. Just remember to choose a safe location and wear proper winter attire to keep warm and dry.

3. Build a Snowman:

Let your creativity shine by building a snowman in your backyard. Grab some carrots for a nose, twigs for arms, and rocks for eyes and a mouth. Dressing up your snowman can be a fun family project, and you can even name your frosty creation!

4. Snowball Fight:

Engage in a friendly snowball fight with your family. It's a great way to burn off energy and have a good laugh. Just be sure to set some ground rules to ensure everyone has fun without getting too competitive.

5. Winter Hiking:

If your family enjoys the great outdoors, consider going for a winter hike. Many hiking trails transform into a magical winter wonderland when covered in snow. Just make sure to wear appropriate winter boots and clothing to stay warm and safe.

6. Snowshoeing:

Snowshoeing is a family-friendly winter activity for kids that allows you to explore snowy landscapes at a leisurely pace. It's an excellent way to enjoy the beauty of nature while getting some exercise.

7. Winter Wildlife Watching:

Winter is a great time for wildlife enthusiasts to observe animals in their natural habitats. Bundle up and take your family on a nature walk or to a local wildlife sanctuary to spot winter birds and other animals that thrive in the cold.

8. Visit a Winter Festival:

Many towns and cities host winter festivals with activities like ice sculpture displays, sleigh rides, and festive markets. Check out what's happening in your area and make it a family outing.

9. Snow Tubing:

If you're looking for an exhilarating outdoor adventure, consider going snow tubing. Many ski resorts and winter parks offer designated tubing lanes where you can slide down the snowy slopes in an inflatable tube. It's a thrilling activity that requires minimal skill and is perfect for all ages. Just be prepared to laugh, scream, and enjoy the ride as you zip down the hill.

10. Winter Photography:

Capture the breathtaking beauty of the winter landscape by trying your hand at winter photography. Grab your cameras or smartphones and head outdoors to take pictures of snow-covered trees, icicles, and frosty landscapes. Encourage your kids to get creative and see who can take the most stunning winter shots. It's a fantastic way to appreciate nature's winter artistry and document your family's winter adventures.

 

Indoor Activities:

When the weather is just too harsh, you can still have a blast indoors. Remember that the key to a successful family indoor activity is participation and enthusiasm from everyone involved. These indoor activities not only provide entertainment but also strengthen family bonds and create cherished memories during the winter season. So, embrace the cozy comforts of your home and have a blast together!

1. Board Games and Puzzles:

Gather around the table and engage in some friendly competition with board games and puzzles. Whether it's classic games like Monopoly, Scrabble, or newer favorites, board games provide hours of entertainment and foster family bonding.

2. Indoor Scavenger Hunt:

Create a list of items or clues, hide them around the house, and challenge your family members to a scavenger hunt. It's a great way to keep everyone entertained and active indoors.

3. Storytelling and Reading:

Gather in a cozy corner with blankets and share stories or read books together. Let each family member take turns telling their own tales or choose a captivating book to read aloud.

4. Indoor Mini Golf:

Set up a mini-golf course in your living room using household items as obstacles. Take turns designing holes and competing for the lowest score. This creative and fun indoor game is sure to be a hit.

5. Movie Marathon:

Have a movie marathon with your favourite family films. Create a home theater experience with popcorn, blankets, and dimmed lights. Let each family member pick a movie to watch together.

6. Cooking and Baking:

Get the whole family involved in the kitchen by cooking or baking together. Make pizzas from scratch, decorate cupcakes, or try your hand at making homemade hot cocoa with whipped cream and sprinkles.

7. Arts and Crafts:

Unleash your creativity with arts and crafts projects. Whether it's painting, drawing, making holiday cards, or crafting DIY decorations, creating something together can be both fun and rewarding.

8. Indoor Bowling:

Transform your hallway or a room into a mini bowling alley. Use empty plastic bottles as pins and a soft ball as the bowling ball. Keep score and compete for strikes and spares.

9. Science Experiments:

Explore the world of science with fun and safe at-home experiments. There are countless kid-friendly experiments online that can teach your family about the wonders of the natural world.

10. Family Talent Show:

Encourage family members to showcase their talents in a talent show. Whether it's singing, dancing, playing musical instruments, or performing magic tricks, it's a great way to celebrate each other's abilities.


Winter may bring cold temperatures, but it also brings unique opportunities for family fun and togetherness. Whether you prefer the thrill of outdoor adventures like ice skating and sledding or cozy indoor activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy during the winter season. Embrace the season and create wonderful memories with your family. Stay warm, stay safe, and have a fantastic winter!

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