For some people, winter can feel like a drag. The frigid temperatures, shorter days of sunlight, and endless piles of snow can make anyone want to hibernate. But while staying warm inside for three months, here are 15 wintertime activities to help you enjoy the season. Get your jammies and snuggle up because it’s time to get cozy.
Bake Tasty Treats
This activity is a holiday favorite. Spend the cold days inside making cookies with your family. It’s a great way to bond with the young ones. Pull out the cookie dough, get some frosting, and grab the sprinkles; it’s time to gather around the table and decorate cookies. Oh, and they make for tasty gifts as well!
Read by the Fire
When you see big Charlie Brown-sized snowflakes outside, you know it’s time to curl up next to the fire. Grab a book and elevate your coziness. Wrap yourself in blankets and get pillows. Make it even cozier with the company of children and animals. What better way to spend your time?
Take a Bath
Treat yourself to a nice hot bath with scented candles and bath bombs. Lock the door to the bathroom and tell your family not to disturb you for the next hour. Not only is this activity cozy, but it’s restful personal care. The warm water will feel refreshing against your skin.
Make Hot Chocolate
This activity is a commonly cherished wintertime activity. Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. Nothing beats drinking hot chocolate after shoveling snow. It’s the perfect way to relax. Add toppings like marshmallows or whipped cream. Your little ones will enjoy the sweets. Thankfully, it’s easy to make, and of course, it’s easier to drink.
Family Movie Night
During the winter months, it gets dark early. Plan a family movie night! Snuggle up on the couch with pillows and blankets. Invite the dog. Make some popcorn. Pick out a holiday movie and enjoy some quality family time. With the many available streaming services, you’ll have no trouble finding the proper film.
Wrap Presents
Show your gratitude for the ones you love by getting them gifts. They don’t have to be expensive; after all, it’s the thought that counts. Make it a big event with your family to wrap presents for extended family and friends. But be sure not to let your kids see their gifts!
Decorate for the Holiday
In December, Christmas cheer is everywhere! Join the occasion and spread the joy by decorating inside and outside. Put ornaments on the tree, lights on the roof, and mistletoe—distract yourself from the misery of winter by adding to the excitement. Hang the holly, hang the wreath, hang the ivy, bells, and bows!
Knit or Crochet
We can’t think of a more idyllic way to spend your winter months than knitting or crocheting. Snuggle up with a big blanket on the couch and sit beside the fire. Although there is a learning curve, either method can be learned. Your finished piece—a hat, scarf, mittens, or sweater—will make the perfect holiday gift.
Play Games
Stay in and play a board game when the wind is whistling outside. Invite your family or friends. Make some drinks and get some snacks. You can make it like a little party. Board games are fun to play and an entertaining way to pass the time. My suggestion: Candyland or Chess!
Make Homemade Candles
Learn a new skill and list a few names on your holiday list. Candles are surprisingly easy to make. Choose your choice of wax—beeswax, soy, paraffin, palm, or gel. Melt the wax in a saucepan. When it is hot enough, transfer the wax to a small container. Then, place a little strip of wood in the middle for the wick. Let it cool. Voila!
Wreath-Making
Here is another crafty activity. Create your own wreath! All you need is fresh greenery and decorations you’d like to use. Essentially, you make small bouquets wrapped in wire and place them in a wreath. If you are willing to put forth effort, you can make your own DIY Christmas decorations.
Host a Dinner Party
Everybody enjoys a good dinner party. Stay warm on the weekend with laughter and good company. Invite your close friends and cook a home-cooked meal like roasted chicken or grilled salmon. Prepare a snack table and stock up on drinks—non-alcoholic and alcoholic. Keep warm and laugh with friends during an entertaining evening.
Listen to Music
Get into the holiday spirit and pass the time by listening to music. There are hundreds of Christmas compilations. Choose one by your favorite artist. Some of our favorite songs come from Mariah Carey, Wham!, Paul McCartney, and Kenny G. They’ll put you and everyone around you in a cheerful mood.
Go Ice Skating
The last two activities are for when you are ready to brave the cold. Plan a day to go ice skating at a local rink. Bring your children or your grandchildren—they will have a blast! Of course, we recommend you be careful on the ice. Don’t attempt a triple axel or anything. Don’t worry if ice skating is new; you’ll get the hang of it.
Go Sledding
Take out the snow pants, grab your boots—it’s time to go sledding! Feel the nostalgia as the wind hits your face as you sled down a hill with your friends and family. It will remind you of when you were a child. Snow days were the best; everyone in the neighborhood went to the local sledding hill.
