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Winter brings a special magic that families can enjoy together. The cold weather and holiday season create opportunities for unique activities and memories. I’ve put together a list of 17 fun winter bucket list ideas for families to try.
These winter activities will help your family bond and make the most of the season. From outdoor adventures in the snow to cozy indoor projects, there’s something for everyone. My list includes both classic winter traditions and creative new ideas to try.
1. Snow Gazing
Kids are always so thrilled to see snow. You can share in their fascination by watching the snowfall with them. This can be done indoors or outdoors during winter.
2. Celebrate Christmas Together
It is lovely to have your family together under the same roof this year. It is the perfect way to relive old memories and create lasting memories this winter. You can take pictures for keeps, also bear in mind that this can be a constant Christmas tradition for your family.
3. Build a Snowman Together
Building a snowman is a classic winter activity for families. I love how it brings everyone together for creative fun outdoors.
To start, we need to roll three large snowballs – one for the base, middle, and head. It’s exciting to see the snowman take shape as we stack them.
Next comes the fun part – decorating! We can use items from around the house like carrots, buttons, and scarves. Each family member can add their own special touch.
Don’t forget to name your snowman creation. It’s a great way to make lasting winter memories as a family.
4. Go Ice Skating At A Local Rink
Ice skating is a classic winter activity that’s perfect for family fun. I love gliding across the smooth ice, feeling the cool air on my face. It’s a great way to get active and make lasting memories together.
Most towns have indoor or outdoor rinks open during winter. I always check if they offer skate rentals – it’s convenient if we don’t own our own pairs. Some rinks even have lessons for beginners.
I find ice skating helps improve balance and coordination. It’s also a good workout without feeling like exercise. The best part? Seeing my family laugh and smile as we skate hand-in-hand around the rink.
5. Have A Cozy Family Movie Night
I love gathering the family for a cozy movie night during winter. It’s a great way to spend quality time together while staying warm indoors.
I pick a family-friendly winter movie like The Snowman or a holiday classic. We make hot chocolate and popcorn for snacks.
Everyone gets comfy in pajamas with blankets on the couch. I dim the lights and light some candles to create a cozy atmosphere.
We snuggle up and enjoy the movie together. It’s a simple activity but creates wonderful family memories. Movie nights are perfect for cold winter evenings at home.
6. Create homemade holiday cards
I love making holiday cards with my family. It’s a fun winter activity that brings us together. We gather colorful paper, markers, and glue to craft unique designs.
Each family member can make their own card or we work on them as a team. We write personal messages inside to friends and relatives.
Making cards is a great way to express creativity and show loved ones we care. It’s more meaningful than store-bought cards. Plus, it’s an affordable activity that keeps us busy on cold days.
Homemade cards become cherished keepsakes for those who receive them. I find it’s a nice tradition to start with kids to teach thoughtfulness.
7. Visit a Winter Festival
Winter festivals are a great way to make family memories. I love the joy of exploring festive markets, ice sculptures, and seasonal activities together.
Many cities host special winter events. The Stowe Winter Carnival in Vermont offers ice carving and winter sports from January 22-26. It’s a fun way to embrace the cold weather.
Edinburgh’s Christmas markets run from mid-November through early January. With over 70 stalls, an ice rink, and a big wheel, there’s something for everyone.
Checking local event calendars can help find nearby winter festivals. Bundling up and experiencing the magic of these seasonal celebrations is a perfect family outing.
6. Take a Scenic Winter Hike
I love bundling up and hitting the trails for a winter hike. The crisp air and snow-covered landscapes create a magical atmosphere.
I make sure to wear warm layers, sturdy boots, and bring plenty of water. Safety is key, so I always check trail conditions and let someone know my plans.
On the trail, I keep an eye out for animal tracks in the snow and icicles hanging from tree branches. The quiet stillness of nature in winter is so peaceful.
After the hike, I warm up with some hot cocoa. It’s a great way to make memories and appreciate winter’s beauty as a family.
9. Make a Gingerbread House
Making a gingerbread house is a fun family activity for winter. I love gathering everyone to decorate these sweet creations. We start by baking gingerbread pieces or using a pre-made kit.
Next, we assemble the house using icing as glue. This can be tricky, so I make sure to help younger kids. Once it’s standing, the real fun begins with decorating.
We use candies, sprinkles, and icing to add colorful details. I encourage creativity – no two houses ever look the same! It’s messy but memorable.
When we finish, we display our gingerbread houses as festive decorations. They add a cozy, homemade touch to our winter decor.
10. Host a Family Game Night
I love organizing family game nights during winter. It’s a cozy way to spend time together indoors. I pick a mix of board games, card games, and maybe even video games if everyone’s interested.
I make sure to have snacks and drinks ready. Popcorn, chips, and hot cocoa are always hits. I set up a comfy area in the living room with pillows and blankets.
I try to choose games that work for all ages. Classics like Monopoly or Scrabble are great. For younger kids, I might include simpler games like Candy Land or Uno.
These game nights create fun memories and bring us closer as a family. It’s a perfect addition to any winter bucket list.
11. Visit a Holiday Light Display
I love seeing twinkling lights transform ordinary places into magical winter wonderlands. Holiday light displays are a must-do family activity during the festive season.
Many zoos, botanical gardens, and parks put on dazzling light shows. The Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights is a great example. It offers an immersive after-dark experience with glowing walls, lit trees, and illuminated animal sculptures.
I recommend checking local listings to find displays near you. Some venues have special features like warm drinks, caroling, or visits with Santa. Booking tickets in advance is often a good idea for popular events.
Bundling up and strolling through sparkling light displays is a perfect way to get into the holiday spirit with my family. The twinkling lights never fail to bring smiles to our faces.
10. Try Winter Bird Watching
Winter bird watching can be a fun family activity. I like to grab some binoculars and a field guide before heading outside. Many birds are easier to spot against the snowy backdrop.
I look for cardinals, blue jays, and chickadees in my backyard. Sometimes I see woodpeckers on tree trunks. Putting out bird feeders attracts more feathered friends to observe.
I enjoy teaching my kids to identify different bird calls. We keep a list of the species we spot. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and each other during the cold months.
11. Bake Homemade Cookies together
Baking cookies with my family is a fun winter activity. I love the smell of fresh cookies filling the kitchen. It’s a great way to spend time together and stay warm inside.
We pick our favorite recipes and gather ingredients. My kids help measure and mix. They enjoy cutting out shapes and decorating sugar cookies.
While the cookies bake, we play games or tell stories. Then we get to enjoy warm, gooey cookies right out of the oven. It’s a tasty treat and a sweet memory for cold winter days.
12. Enjoy a Family Hot Cocoa Bar
I love setting up a hot cocoa bar for my family on chilly winter evenings. It’s a fun way to get everyone involved and customize their drinks.
I lay out different toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and chocolate chips. I also include mix-ins such as peppermint sticks, cinnamon, and flavored syrups.
My kids enjoy experimenting with different flavor combinations. It’s exciting to see their creativity shine through their cocoa creations.
This activity brings us together and creates warm memories. It’s perfect after sledding or before movie night.
13. Have a Snowball Fight
A snowball fight is a classic winter activity for families. I love the excitement of packing snow into perfect spheres and launching them at my loved ones.
It’s a great way to get outside and be active in cold weather. We burn energy running around and dodging snowballs. The laughter and shrieks of joy make it extra fun.
I recommend setting some ground rules first to keep everyone safe. We avoid aiming for faces and agree on boundaries. Afterward, we warm up inside with hot cocoa.
Snowball fights create lasting memories. They’re simple but so much fun for all ages.
16. Try Cross-country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is a fun winter activity for families. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. I recommend starting with groomed trails for beginners.
You can rent equipment at many ski areas. Make sure everyone has properly fitting skis, boots, and poles. Dress in layers to stay warm but not overheat.
Take it slow at first and practice basic techniques. Gliding along snowy trails is peaceful and lets you take in the scenery. Kids often pick it up quickly and love exploring.
Remember to bring water and snacks. With some practice, cross-country skiing can become a favorite family winter pastime.
15. Visit An Indoor Trampoline Park
I love indoor trampoline parks for winter family fun. They’re a great way to stay active when it’s cold outside. Kids and adults can jump, flip, and bounce to their heart’s content.
Many parks offer more than just trampolines. I’ve seen foam pits, obstacle courses, and dodgeball areas. Some even have special toddler zones for the little ones.
It’s important to follow safety rules at trampoline parks. I always make sure my family wears proper grip socks and listens to the staff instructions. Jumping can be tiring, so we take breaks when needed.
