Winter is on its way and with it comes the cold and chill of snowy weather.
But you don’t have to lock yourself away and hibernate for a few months, there are plenty of wintertime activities you can enjoy with friends and family.
When there is snow on the ground, it’s an opportunity to try something you’ve never done before or perhaps rediscover a cherished pastime from your childhood.
Here are a few ideas to try when looking for a fun time in the snow with others.
1. Sledding
It’s pretty easy, all you need are some snow sleds and a hill.
Whether your sled is wooden with metal runners, a plastic saucer, an innertube, a blow-up toboggan, or anything else you can climb on and slide down a slope, sledding is great fun for people of all ages.
2. Skiing or Snowboarding
This one takes a little more planning. You’ll need skiing or snowboarding equipment, the right clothes, and a lift pass at a ski resort.
If you’re inexperienced, you’ll also need some lessons.
But heading up to a mountain to enjoy a day or skiing or snowboarding is an adventure for the whole family.
Make sure to get a trail map and select your runs based on your skill level and you’re ready to hit the mountain!
3. Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is a little less physically intensive than skiing, but it’s no less intense.
You’ve got a lot of horsepower in the engine underneath you, so be careful if it’s your first time.
But the feeling of rushing through the snow on a snowmobile is sure to be thrilling to you and everyone in your group.
4. Ice Skating
Another sport that takes some practice, ice skating is a fun way to enjoy yourself in the winter and a tradition for many families.
Rinks pop up all over the place this time of year and have skates available to rent.
Or if you live in a colder climate, maybe you’ve got your own skates and know a local pond or lake that freezes over. Either way, go take a spin on the ice.
5. Sleigh Ride
For those people who want to sit back and enjoy the winter and let someone else do the work, why not hire a sleigh ride for your family and friends?
It’s an idyllic way to enjoy the holiday season, dashing through the snow.
6. Ice Fishing
If you’ve got a fishing pole, warm clothes, and a chair, you’re almost ready to go ice fishing. You just have to find yourself a frozen lake, make sure it’s safe, then cut a hole in the ice and get to work.
Ice fishing can be a relaxing way to spend a winter day and perhaps come home with dinner for the family.
7. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is another way to experience the wonders of winter while getting in some exercise as well.
A peaceful, quiet walk through the woods and over the snow, snowshoeing is an activity for all ages.
8. Caroling
Do you like to sing? Why not head out with family and friends and spread some joy to your neighbors by going caroling?
You might even get others to join in as you make your rounds. It’s a festive and traditional way to celebrate the season and a lot of fun as well.
9. Play in the Snow
Enjoying the snow doesn’t always mean you have to travel far or spend a lot of money, you can head right outside your door and have plenty to do.
Building a snowman, making snow angels, or having a snowball fight is a delightful way to make good use of all that snow that’s been falling.
Show the kids the right way to build a snowman or a snow angel. You’ll make memories that will last a lifetime.
10. Head Back Inside
Part of the fun of playing in the snow is going back inside and getting warm and cozy. Why not invite your loved ones over and have a party?
You can watch movies, a football game, do a puzzle, or play games. There are plenty of fun winter foods to make as well.
Hot chocolate, mulled wines, hot cider, chili, or desserts like baked cookies and pies are all cold weather specialties.
Make sure you’ve got a warm fire going in the fireplace and you’ve created the perfect winter evening.
Winter Wonderland
With so many exciting cold weather activities you can enjoy, your calendar could be full this winter.
Start making plans now with your family and friends so you’re ready to go when that first snow begins to fall!