WordofMany

Family enjoying various winter activities

Winter must haves

top 8 winter activities that are perfect for families

By Evelyn Reed

Published: 24 Feb 2025

A Snowy Start

Last winter, my family and I decided to ditch the usual holiday chaos and try something new. We bundled up, grabbed our sleds, and headed to the nearest snowy hill. The kids were ecstatic, shrieking with laughter as they zoomed down the slopes. Even my husband, usually glued to his phone, got caught up in the fun. It was a simple pleasure, but the joy on their faces was priceless. That's what inspired me to put together this list of awesome winter activities for families—adventures that create lasting memories, not just Instagram-worthy moments. What amazing winter memories have you made with your family?

Family sledding down a snowy hill | Image: Supplied

1. Embrace the Chill: Ice Skating Adventures

Ice skating is a classic winter activity, and for good reason! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a wobbly beginner, there's something magical about gliding across the ice. Many towns and cities have outdoor rinks during winter—some even have festive lighting and holiday music playing, adding to the charm. If you have little ones, look for places that offer penguin skate aids or walker-type devices to help them gain confidence. Remember to dress warmly; it's amazing how quickly you can get chilly on the ice! Also, I forgot to mention, don’t forget the hot chocolate afterwards!

Family ice skating at an outdoor rink | Image: Supplied

2. Snow Much Fun: Building a Snowman Family

This one's a timeless tradition, and for good reason. Building a snowman is an activity that engages everyone, from the smallest child to the biggest adult (and believe me, even grumpy adults can't help but smile!). Get creative with accessories—scarves, hats, twigs for arms—and let your imaginations run wild. Don’t forget the crucial carrot nose! We even tried using blueberries for eyes, once, which worked surprisingly well! It might look silly, but making silly memories with your loved ones is what it's all about!

Family building a snowman with creative accessories | Image: Supplied

3. Cozy Cabin Fever: Indoor Activities for a Winter's Day

Sometimes, battling the cold just isn't worth it. On those days, embrace the cozy vibes with some fantastic indoor activities. A family game night is always a winner—think board games, card games, or even a fun video game tournament. Baking cookies or making hot chocolate is a great way to get the kids involved and create a delicious treat. Or curl up together with a good book or movie—quality family time is what makes these moments so special, right? This is also a great oppurtunity to teach the kids some life skills or maybe even start a new family tradition!

Family playing board games by a fireplace | Image: Supplied

4. Winter Wonderland Walks: Exploring Nature's Beauty

While the cold might make you want to hibernate, a winter walk offers unique delights. The crisp air, the glistening snow, the peaceful quiet—it's a chance to reconnect with nature and appreciate its beauty in a different way. Dress warmly, wear appropriate footwear, and pack some snacks and hot drinks to keep you energized. This is also a great opportunity to teach children about nature, animal tracks, and the wonders of the winter season. It's also a chance for me to disconnect from my phone, I swear it feels like a small vacation!

Family walking in a snowy forest | Image: Supplied

5. Festive Fun: Holiday Markets and Events

Many towns and cities host holiday markets and events during the winter season. These are fantastic opportunities to experience the festive spirit, enjoy delicious food, and find unique gifts. Often, these markets have activities for children, such as craft workshops or face painting— making it a fun, memorable outing for the whole family. And some times, you can even find a cute little souvenir to remember the day, this time, it's going to be a tiny wooden reindeer for my kids.

Family at a winter holiday market | Image: Supplied

6. Thrilling Adventures: Skiing or Snowboarding Fun

For the more adventurous families, skiing or snowboarding offers an exciting way to spend a winter day. Many resorts cater to families, offering lessons for all skill levels and kid-friendly slopes. Remember to rent the proper gear and dress warmly, because when it's cold, it gets cold, seriously cold. It can be a bit pricey, but the memories made are invaluable!

Family skiing or snowboarding down a mountain | Image: Supplied

7. Creative Cooking: Winter-Themed Baking

Get your family involved in the kitchen by baking festive treats. Gingerbread houses, snowman-shaped cookies, or warm apple cider donuts are all great options. Not only is it a fun activity, but it also creates delicious memories and teaches valuable life skills. It's also a chance for the kids to get messy; this is the perfect time to take that super cute picture for the family album!

Family baking winter-themed cookies | Image: Supplied

8. Cozy Nights In: Family Movie Marathon

Sometimes, the best winter activity is a cozy night in. Pop some popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and have a family movie marathon. Choose films that everyone will enjoy, or make it a themed night—maybe all holiday movies, or all animated classics. Just make sure the volume isn't too loud for the neighbors! Make some hot chocolate and really enjoy that quality time together. Its time to recharge and be ready for a new year filled with more adventures!