Winter Bucket List Ideas: 120 Fun Things To Do This Season
The holidays are over and the winter days are closing in. This can make people feel a little sad and depressed, so what can you do to spark more energy and positivity? Check out these Winter Bucket List Ideas!
Winter can be a fun time for all and I’m sharing 120 Fun Things To Do This Season that will hopefully help to brighten your winter days.
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WINTER BUCKET LIST IDEAS
Out & About
1. Go Ice Skating
Bundle up and show off your skills on the ice. There’s sure to be a local spot in your area that offers ice skating in the winter.
2. Go Sledding
We went sledding with the kids for the first time last year and had a blast! There are so many options when it comes to sledding- you can find a random hill close to home, look for popular sledding hills in your area, or even take a trip. If you live within a couple hours of Beech Mountain, NC I recommend checking out the Beech Mountain Town Sledding Hill. It’s for kids 12 and under and it’s FREE!
If you don’t already have a sled– make sure to grab one now! We had a very difficult time finding any in stock last year.
3. Visit A Trampoline Park
Burn off some winter energy and let the kids (or yourself!) bounce around for hours at a local trampoline park. It’s a great indoor option when the weather is cold and snowy. Many parks offer family passes, so check for discounts before you go!
4. Take A Winter Nature Walk
I am not a fan of cold weather, but if I’m all bundled up, a winter nature walk can be quite peaceful. Take in the cold air and the beauty that the winter brings. Make it fun for the kids with a little scavenger hunt involved.
5. Visit A Museum
Spend a cozy afternoon exploring exhibits at a nearby museum. Many museums have interactive exhibits for kids, and it’s a perfect way to combine learning with fun when it’s too chilly outside.
6. Plan A Trip
Take advantage of the winter weather and plan a trip. Find a resort with a nice hot tub or indoor heated pool. Check out a spot to go skiing, snowboarding, or tubing. Or even escape to a tropical spot and get a little sunshine in!
7. Learn How To Ski Or Snowboard
Embrace the winter season by hitting the slopes! If you’ve never skied or snowboarded before, sign up for a lesson to get started. Be sure to check local rental shops for gear if you don’t own your own.
8. Explore Your City
Play tourist in your own city by visiting landmarks or trying out activities you’ve never done before. Grab a city guidebook or map out a new-to-you route with fun stops along the way!
9. Go Ice Fishing
For a peaceful and unique winter experience, try ice fishing! Be sure to bundle up and bring plenty of snacks and a thermos of something hot. You’ll need an auger and an ice shelter if you’re going all-in!
10. Try A New Restaurant
Winter is the perfect excuse to discover a new favorite restaurant. Treat yourself to a cozy dinner out, and don’t forget to check local reviews for the best hidden gems.
11. Visit A New Coffee Shop
Warm up with a hot latte or mocha from a coffee shop you’ve never been to before. Try a seasonal flavor or bring a book to relax and enjoy some quiet time.
12. Go Bowling
If you want to stay indoors, head to the bowling alley. Perfect spot for the whole family to relax and have some fun.
13. Visit The Arcade
Head to the local arcade and enjoy a throwback day of classic games. Play a few rounds of skee-ball or try for the high score on pinball. It’s great indoor fun for all ages!
14. Go To The Library
A winter afternoon is perfect for curling up with a good book. Take a trip to your local library to browse the shelves, find something new, or even attend a winter storytime for kids.
15. Visit The Aquarium
Enjoy the beauty of marine life indoors at your local aquarium. It’s a fun, educational experience for the whole family and a nice way to escape the cold for a few hours.
16. Pay For Someone’s Order
Brighten someone’s day by paying for their coffee or meal at a drive-thru. This random act of kindness is an easy way to spread some warmth this winter.
17. Go To A Science Center
Get hands-on with learning at a local science center! Many centers have interactive exhibits that both kids and adults will love, making it a great day of indoor fun. Check your local deals for discounted tickets!
18. Go To The Movie Theatre
Snuggle up with popcorn and enjoy a new blockbuster or family movie. Many theaters have discounted matinee prices, so it’s an affordable treat during the colder months.
19. Visit A Nursing Home
Spend some time visiting with residents at a local nursing home. Whether you sing carols, play games, or simply chat, your visit will mean the world to them.
20. Volunteer Somewhere
Giving back during the winter months can bring a sense of warmth and purpose. Whether it’s at a food pantry, shelter, or community event, find a cause you care about and jump in!
21. Visit The Humane Society
Love animals? Stop by your local humane society to spend time with the pets waiting for homes. You might even consider adopting a new furry family member!
22. Get A Pedicure
Treat yourself to a little pampering with a cozy winter pedicure. Opt for a seasonal color, and enjoy a little me-time while someone else takes care of your toes.
23. Take A Cooking Class
Learn to make a new winter dish by signing up for a cooking class. It’s a fun way to warm up and get some new recipes to try at home. Check out local community centers or gourmet stores for class options.
24. Rent A Cozy Cabin
For the ultimate winter escape, rent a cabin in the woods and enjoy some quiet, peaceful time away. Look for one with a fireplace and bring along board games for family fun nights.
25. Do A Polar Plunge
For the bold and adventurous, take the plunge into icy waters! Many cities host polar plunge events for charity, so you can do something daring while supporting a good cause.
26. Go On A Scenic Drive
Fill up the thermos, pack some snacks, and take a scenic drive to enjoy the beauty of snow-covered landscapes. Look for spots with good views of frozen lakes or mountains.
Fun At Home
27. Make A Giant Blanket Fort
I don’t think making a blanket fort will ever go out of style. It gives kids the opportunity to get creative, and keeps them busy for a while.
28. Read A Book
Winter is the perfect time to cozy up with a good book. Get comfy with the kids and grab a pile of books to read.
If you’re looking for a book to read for yourself, try one from Reese’s Book Club. Lots of good options!
29. Make Frozen Bubbles
Show the kids a cool trick by freezing a bubble! Find the step-by-step process HERE.
30. Have A Game Night
Playing board games has always been a favorite of mine and winter is the perfect time to have a family game night. Check out my list of the best board games.
31. Binge Watch A TV Series
Cozy up under a blanket and spend the day watching a TV series you’ve been meaning to catch up on. Whether it’s a family favorite or something just for you, streaming services have endless options for a perfect winter binge.
32. Have A Spa Day
Pamper yourself at home with a DIY spa day. Grab a face mask, light some candles, and fill your tub with a relaxing bubble bath. Consider adding a luxurious bath bomb to make it extra special!
33. Draw
Unleash your inner artist by spending time drawing or doodling. Whether you’re using pencils, markers, or even charcoal, drawing is a great way to relax and get creative. Check out one of my favorite art kits.
34. Have Fun With Play Doh
Keep the kids entertained and creative with a Play-Doh session! You can create fun winter-themed sculptures like snowmen or snowflakes, or just let their imagination run wild.
35. Do A Family Devotional
Take a moment to gather as a family and do a devotional together. Whether you read a passage from the Bible or follow a guided devotional book, it’s a meaningful way to connect during the winter months.
36. Have A Puppet Show
Get creative with the kids by putting on a puppet show! You can use socks, paper bags, or puppets you already have at home. Set up a little stage, and let their imaginations take the lead.
37. Play With Creative Cubes
I came across these creative cubes when I was teaching and they are so fun for all kinds of activities. We love to mix and match what’s on the cubes – and you can even use them for things like dividing up chores!
38. Use Window Crayons
Bring some color to your winter days by decorating your windows with window crayons. Let the kids (or yourself!) draw snowflakes, winter scenes, or anything fun, and wipe it off when you’re ready for a new creation.
39. Shop January Sales
Post-holiday sales are the perfect time to snag great deals on winter clothes, home goods, and more. Make a list of items you need (or want) and take advantage of the discounts!
40. Play With Legos
Gather the family and build something fun with Legos. Whether it’s a set you’re working on or a creative free-build, Lego time is always a hit on a cold winter day.
41. Redecorate A Room
Give your home a fresh look by redecorating a room. You can switch up the furniture, add some cozy throw pillows, or even give the walls a new coat of paint.
42. Complete A Puzzle
Spend the day working on a challenging puzzle together as a family. It’s a great way to relax, unwind, and enjoy a slower pace while staying cozy indoors. The Magic Puzzle Company puzzles are a favorite of mine with a surprise twist at the end! And if you’re really into it, I suggest getting a puzzle board.
43. Build A Domino Run
Set up a long, winding domino run, and enjoy the thrill of watching it all fall down! You can get creative with designs, or even set a family challenge for who can make the longest run.
44. Make A Winter Bath Scrub
Mix up a homemade winter bath scrub using ingredients like sugar, coconut oil, and essential oils. Not only does it smell amazing, but it’ll leave your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
45. Learn Origami
Get crafty and try your hand at origami! There are tons of beginner-friendly tutorials online, and you can create beautiful paper cranes, stars, or even winter-themed designs.
46. Have An Indoor Picnic
Bring the picnic inside when it’s too cold outdoors. Spread out a blanket, pack some sandwiches, and enjoy a fun, cozy meal right in your living room.
47. Have A Photoshoot
Capture the beauty of winter by having a fun indoor or outdoor photoshoot. Whether you’re snapping family photos or just getting creative with a camera, it’s a great way to make memories.
48. Make A Winter Craft
Grab some crafting supplies and make a fun winter-themed project. From DIY snow globes to paper snowflakes, crafting is a great way to keep the kids entertained while indoors.
49. Start Writing A Pen Pal
Winter is the perfect time to start a pen pal relationship. Whether it’s with a friend or a relative, writing letters is a thoughtful and fun way to stay connected.
50. Have A Talent Show
Let the kids (or the whole family!) put on a talent show. Whether it’s singing, dancing, or telling jokes, it’s a great way to spend time together and let everyone’s talents shine.
51. Adopt A Pet
If you’ve been thinking about adding a furry friend to the family, winter might be the perfect time to adopt a pet. Check with your local humane society for adoption events and available animals.
52. Random Act Of Kindness
Spread some warmth by doing a random act of kindness, like shoveling a neighbor’s driveway or paying for someone’s coffee. Even a small gesture can make someone’s day brighter.
53. Learn A New Language
Challenge yourself this winter by learning a new language. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel make it easy and fun to practice a few minutes each day from the comfort of home.
54. Make A Time Capsule
Gather some mementos from the year and create a time capsule to open in the future. Write letters to your future self, collect small items, and seal it up to rediscover later.
55. Send Cards To Family Members
Brighten someone’s day by sending a handwritten card to a family member or friend. You can include a personal note, winter wishes, or even some photos.
56. Play Charades
Gather the family for a fun, interactive game of charades. It’s an easy, no-prep game that guarantees lots of laughs and is perfect for a cozy evening in.
57. Have Breakfast In Bed
Treat yourself (or someone you love) to a relaxing morning with breakfast in bed. Whether it’s pancakes, eggs, or just a hot cup of coffee, it’s a great way to enjoy a slow, cozy start to the day.
58. Take A Glow Stick Bath
Turn bath time into a glowing adventure by adding some glow sticks! Turn off the lights and enjoy a fun, colorful bath experience that the kids will love.
59. Have A Movie Day
Spend the day watching a lineup of your favorite movies. Grab some popcorn, pile up the blankets, and enjoy a family-friendly movie marathon.
60. Build A Snowman
Head outside and build the ultimate snowman! Don’t forget to gather accessories like a hat, scarf, and buttons to give your snowman some personality.
61. Stay In Pajamas All Day
Embrace the coziness of winter by staying in your pajamas all day. Whether you’re lounging, reading, or watching movies, it’s a perfect way to fully relax.
62. Cozy Up By The Fireplace
Light a fire, grab a blanket, and spend time relaxing by the fireplace. Whether you’re reading, sipping cocoa, or simply enjoying the warmth, it’s a winter classic.
63. Burn Delicious Smelling Candles
Fill your home with the comforting scents of winter by burning candles. Look for seasonal scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine to create a cozy atmosphere.
64. Paint A Mural
Get creative by painting a mural on a wall in your home. You can make it as big or as small as you want, and it’s a great way to brighten up a space during the dreary winter months.
65. Try A New Hobby
Winter is the perfect time to dive into a new hobby. Whether it’s knitting, photography, or learning to play an instrument, find something new that excites you.
66. Display Your Favorite Quote
Choose a favorite quote that inspires you and display it in your home. You can frame it or write it on a chalkboard as a daily reminder to stay positive during the winter months.
67. Facetime Grandparents
Take some time to connect with grandparents or other family members over FaceTime. It’s a great way to stay in touch and brighten their day, especially during the winter.
68. Cosmic Yoga
Have a fun, kid-friendly yoga session with Cosmic Yoga videos! It’s a great way to get moving, stretch, and have some active fun indoors during those cold winter days.
69. Buy Seasonal Flowers
Brighten up your home by buying a bouquet of seasonal flowers. It’s an easy way to bring a little bit of life and color to the indoors during the winter months.
70. Call An Old Friend
Reach out to an old friend for a catch-up phone call. Winter is a great time to reconnect, share stories, and rekindle friendships.
71. Reflect On The Past Year
Take a quiet moment to reflect on the past year. You can journal your thoughts, create a list of your favorite memories, or even write down lessons you’ve learned and hopes for the year ahead.
Plan & Organize
72. Declutter
Winter is a great time to declutter. If you are stuck indoors, take advantage by cleaning and organizing your house. This Ornament Storage Bag is perfect for packing up all your ornaments.
Nicole from Organized Chaos Blog shares lots of other ways you can declutter your house!
73. Make Sure You Have Winter Gear
Go through your winter gear and make sure you have everything you need. Do you all have warm gloves? Do they kids need a face cover? Make sure you’re prepared!
74. Set Family Goals
Sit down as a family and talk about your plans and goals for the new year. What trips do you want to take? What can you each do around the house? What new ideas do you have?
75. Make A To-Do List
Create a To-Do List and stick with it. Read my post 5 Steps For Getting Things Done to get motivated.
76. Start Healthy Habits
Start making positive changes in your life by making a list of Healthy Habits.
77. Create A Fitness Plan
Spend some time making a fitness plan. Decide if you want to workout at home or a gym and make plans to take care of your body. Try one of these Treadmill HIIT Workouts or a Quick 10-Minute Workout. And don’t forget about the activewear! Check out my top picks from CRZ Yoga – The Best Lululemon Dupe.
78. Make A Cozy Home
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time indoors this winter, make sure you feel cozy. Get a good blanket, like this Barefoot Dreams Dupe, and stock up on candles. Capri Blue Volcano is a very popular scent from Anthropologie.
79. Donate To A Charity
Spread some warmth this winter by donating to a charity that’s close to your heart. Whether it’s through financial contributions, clothing, or food, your act of kindness can make a big difference during the colder months.
80. Start A New Tradition
Make this winter memorable by starting a new family tradition. Whether it’s a special game night, baking a seasonal recipe, or having a weekly hot chocolate date, traditions create lasting memories.
81. Make A Photo Book
Gather all those photos sitting on your phone and create a beautiful photo book to capture your favorite moments. Websites like Shutterfly and Mpix make it easy to design and order a custom album.
82. Decorate For The New Year
Transition from holiday décor to fresh New Year vibes by updating your home with new decorations. Simple touches like twinkle lights, festive banners, or a vision board can help set the tone for a fresh start.
83. Create A Reading List
Take some time to compile a list of books you want to read this winter. Whether it’s cozy novels, self-improvement, or a mix of genres, having a winter reading list ready will help you stay inspired.
84. Sort Through The Attic
Tackle the attic or storage spaces and get organized this winter. You’ll feel productive decluttering, and you might even uncover some forgotten treasures or sentimental items!
85. Create A Winter Playlist
Make the season more fun by curating your own winter playlist. Mix in some cozy acoustic tunes, holiday classics, or upbeat songs to get you in the winter spirit.
86. Make A Photo Calendar
Design a custom photo calendar filled with your favorite family pictures. It’s a functional and personal way to start the new year, and it also makes a great gift for relatives!
87. Have A Cleaning Day
Choose a day to deep clean and declutter your home. You’ll feel refreshed and ready for the new year with a tidy space, plus it’s the perfect indoor activity for a snowy day.
88. Start A Journal
Winter is the ideal time to start journaling. Whether you want to document daily reflections, gratitude lists, or creative ideas, journaling is a relaxing and reflective practice you can enjoy with a cozy cup of tea.
89. Design A Winter Wardrobe
Refresh your closet for the colder months by designing a winter wardrobe with stylish, cozy pieces. Think comfy knits, layered looks, and boots that are both functional and fashionable.
90. Start A Skincare Routine
Winter can be harsh on your skin, so why not start a new skincare routine to keep it glowing? A few of my favorite products include Paula’s Choice Liquid Exfoliant, La Roche Posay Double Repair Moisturizer, and LANEIGE Lip Sleeping Mask.
91. Organize Your Phone
Spend some time decluttering your phone by deleting old apps, organizing photos, and clearing up space. Use this as a chance to also create new albums and back up important memories to the cloud.
Get Together
92. Throw A Soup Party
Everyone loves a nice bowl of hot soup in the winter. Invite your friends over for a soup party! Make it a competition by giving a theme and asking 3 people to cook. Guests will vote on their favorite soup. Find a list of yummy soups HERE.
93. Plan A Super Bowl Party
If you love football, or you just like to throw parties, plan a fun Super Bowl Party. Make some yummy food, like this amazing Pepperoni Dip. Play a couple games, like Football Squares and Prop Bets. And relax watching the hilarious commercials.
94. Ask A Friend To Get Coffee
Reach out to a friend and invite them to coffee. Winter can bring on the blues, so make sure to stay connected with your friends and family.
95. Host A Fondue Night
Warm up with friends or family by hosting a fondue night! Whether you’re dipping bread into a savory cheese fondue or indulging in chocolate-covered fruit, this is a fun and interactive way to enjoy a cozy winter evening.
96. Celebrate Galentine’s Day
Galentine’s Day became popular from the show, Parks & Recreation, and is now celebrated by women every year. I love to host this fun brunch with my girlfriends. We even had a theme last year, Mean Girls, complete with games and funny decor.
97. Host A Chili Cook-Off
Invite friends and family to a chili cook-off where everyone competes for the title of “Best Chili.” You can even have fun awards for spiciest, most unique, or best overall. Don’t forget to have toppings like cheese, sour cream, and cornbread on hand!
98. Throw A New Year’s Eve Party
Ring in the New Year with a fun and festive party! Whether you go big with decorations, cocktails, and party favors or keep it low-key with close friends and games, it’s a great way to celebrate the end of one year and the start of another.
99. Host A Brunch
Who doesn’t love brunch? Serve up a spread of pancakes, omelets, and fresh fruit for a laid-back gathering with friends or family. Add some mimosas for a touch of elegance, or create a hot cocoa bar for a cozy twist!
100. Go On A Date Night
Take time to go on a date night. Head to the movies or your favorite restaurant. Or search your area for a fun, new adventure that will liven up the winter season.
101. Throw A Wine Tasting Party
Host a wine tasting night with friends! Pick a theme like “Winter Reds” or “Sparkling Wines,” and encourage everyone to bring a bottle. Pair each wine with cheese or small bites for a truly indulgent winter evening.
102. Host A Cookie Exchange
Invite friends and family over for a cookie exchange, where everyone brings a batch of their favorite cookies to swap. This is a fun way to try new recipes and leave with a variety of sweet treats to enjoy! Make sure to have some fun holiday containers for all the goodies.
103. Celebrate The Winter Solstice
Honor the longest night of the year with a winter solstice celebration. Light candles, enjoy seasonal foods, and take a moment to reflect and set intentions for the season ahead.
104. Have An Appetizer Party
Instead of a full meal, host an appetizer party where everyone brings their favorite small bites. From finger foods to dips, it’s a fun and casual way to enjoy a variety of flavors with friends.
105. Host A Favorite Things Party
Gather your friends for a fun and unique Favorite Things party! Each guest brings a few of their favorite items (within a set price range) to exchange with the group. It’s a great way to discover new products, share what you love, and leave with some fabulous new goodies!
Food & Drink
106. Bake Cookies
Spend a cozy afternoon baking your favorite cookies! Whether you go for classic chocolate chip or try something new like peppermint sugar cookies, this is a delicious way to warm up your kitchen on a cold day.
107. Make Homemade Pizza
Celebrate National Pizza Day on February 9th. Grab a slice at your favorite local spot or have some fun in the kitchen and make your own pizza. This Truffled Mushroom Bacon Pepperoni Pizza from How Sweet Eats looks delicious!
108. Drink Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate is the perfect winter drink. You can create your own Hot Chocolate Bar or try some delicious Hot Chocolate Bombs.
109. Roast Chestnuts
Experience an old-fashioned winter tradition by roasting chestnuts at home. You can roast them in the oven or over an open fire for that classic toasty flavor.
110. Make Gingerbread
Whether it’s gingerbread men or an elaborate gingerbread house, this is a classic winter activity that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Use icing, candy, and sprinkles to get creative with your designs!
111. Make Different Popcorn Flavors
Spice up movie night by making different flavors of popcorn! Try mixing in caramel, cheese, or even a dash of cinnamon sugar for a fun and tasty twist on this classic snack.
112. Have A Pancake Breakfast
Start a winter weekend with a stack of homemade pancakes! Add seasonal toppings like cinnamon apples or whipped cream for a special treat. Consider making different shapes for a fun twist, especially with kids!
113. Make Eggnog
Skip the store-bought versions and try making your own eggnog at home. With a rich, creamy flavor and a dash of nutmeg, this classic winter drink is perfect for cozy evenings.
114. Make Mulled Wine
Warm up with a pot of mulled wine simmering on the stove. Infuse red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and oranges to create a cozy, fragrant drink perfect for winter gatherings.
115. Eat Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
Treat yourself to gooey, homemade cinnamon rolls on a chilly morning. Whether you make them from scratch or use a ready-made dough, the smell of baking cinnamon will fill your home with cozy vibes.
116. Make S’mores
Don’t let winter stop you from enjoying this campfire classic! Roast marshmallows in your fireplace or over a stovetop flame and sandwich them between chocolate and graham crackers for a delicious treat.
117. Make Snow Cones With Snow
Bring a bit of summer into winter by making snow cones with fresh snow! Add flavored syrups, and you’ve got a fun and easy treat the whole family will love.
118. Make A Unique Charcuterie Board
Get creative with a winter-themed charcuterie board. Mix in seasonal fruits, cheeses, cured meats, and festive treats like spiced nuts or holiday cookies to make a visually stunning and delicious spread.
119. Make Pasta From Scratch
Spend a cozy day indoors making pasta from scratch! It’s a fun hands-on activity, and the result is a delicious meal that the whole family can enjoy. A pasta-making machine can make the process easier.
120. Make Marmalade
Capture the bright, zesty flavors of winter citrus by making homemade marmalade. Spread it on toast or use it to add a pop of flavor to your favorite baked goods!
These are just a few fun ideas for things to do this winter. Jot down your own winter bucket list ideas and get ready to enjoy the season!
Related posts:
Christ-Centered Christmas Bucket List for Families
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