December 21st Christmas Countdown
Winter Adventure – Easy Outdoor Activities to Enjoy This Christmas
Hiking in Parc National de la Jacques Cartier - Quebec, Canada.
The countdown to Christmas is in full swing, and there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of the season than by diving into some winter adventures! Whether you’re greeted by glistening snowflakes or simply a crisp, cool breeze, outdoor activities are a fantastic way to bond with family, enjoy the fresh air, and create magical holiday memories. Let’s be honest—many of these activities won't break the bank, which is always a plus during the festive season!
Not only do outdoor adventures bring joy and excitement, but getting some fresh winter air can also work wonders for your mood and energy levels, rejuvenating you. So, why not bundle up and head outside? Here are some easy, fun, and festive activities you can enjoy this Christmas season!
1. Go on a Christmas Light Tour
Bundle up, grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and take a stroll (or drive) through the neighborhood to admire the holiday lights. Whether it’s your neighbor’s blow-up Santa or an entire street decked out like a winter wonderland, it’s a magical way to enjoy the season.
đź’ˇ Tips:
Bring binoculars for the kids to "zoom in" on details.
Turn it into a scavenger hunt by making a list of things to find, like a reindeer, candy canes, or twinkling icicles.
2. Build a Snowman (or Snow Family!)
If you’ve got snow, you have to build a snowman—it’s a classic winter activity. Get creative and make an entire snow family, or go big with a snow fort!
đź’ˇ Fun Additions:
Use old scarves, hats, or even sunglasses for a quirky look.
Spray bottles filled with water and food coloring make for fun snow “paint.”
Don’t forget a quick photoshoot with your snowy creations!
No snow? No problem. Try a “snowman building contest” with large cardboard cutouts, cotton balls, and craft supplies.
Mini snowmen in Sierra Nevada Mountains
3. Go Sledding or Tubing
Sledding is an absolute must if you live near a hill (big or small). Grab your sleds, inner tubes, or even an old plastic lid (desperate times, right?) and hit the slopes. It’s guaranteed to bring out your inner kid.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips:
Pack extra gloves and a thermos of hot cider for when everyone needs a warm-up.
No sled? Use a flattened cardboard box or a plastic storage lid for DIY fun.
4. Have a Winter Hike or Nature Walk
A walk through the woods or a local park is magical in the wintertime. The crisp air, frosty trees, and quiet atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into a holiday postcard.
đź’ˇ Ideas to Make It Fun:
Look for animal tracks in the snow or mud and try to guess what made them.
Collect pinecones, twigs, or holly to use for DIY crafts back at home.
Turn it into a game: See who can spot the most birds, berries, or icicles.
For families with young kids, shorter trails work best—and don’t forget to pack snacks!
5. Ice Skating
There’s something so festive about gliding (or wobbling) around on the ice, especially at an outdoor rink. Check out your local skating spot, or if you’re lucky enough to live near a frozen pond, grab your skates and head out.
đź’ˇ Make It Extra Special:
Play holiday music while you skate.
Bring along a thermos of cocoa or coffee for post-skate warming up.
If you’re not into skating, just enjoy the atmosphere with a cozy blanket and some treats!
Ice skating near Pittsburgh, PA
6. Have a Snowball Fight
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned snowball fight! Whether it’s a family free-for-all or a strategic team battle, it’s a surefire way to have a blast.
đź’ˇ Ideas to Level It Up:
Build snow forts for cover.
Set up a “target practice” station with plastic cups or bottles to knock down.
Declare prizes for categories like “most accurate throw” or “best fort design.”
No snow? Try an indoor “snowball fight” with rolled-up socks or cotton balls!
7. Go Caroling or Host a Sing-Along
Spread some holiday cheer by singing your favorite Christmas songs outdoors. If you’re shy about door-to-door caroling, consider hosting a sing-along in your backyard or a local park with friends and family.
đź’ˇ How to Make It Fun:
Hand out jingle bells or kazoos for backup “instruments.”
Keep it short and simple—focus on upbeat, familiar tunes that everyone loves.
Have a treat station with cookies and warm drinks for post-singing fun.
8. Try Star Gazing on a Clear Night
Winter nights are often crisp and clear, making them perfect for stargazing. Wrap up in blankets, bring lawn chairs, and watch the night sky.
đź’ˇ Tips for Star Gazing:
Use a free stargazing app to identify constellations.
Look out for winter favorites like Orion and the Pleiades.
Bring a thermos of hot tea or cocoa and enjoy the quiet magic of the season.
9. Host an Outdoor Bonfire
If you’ve got space, a small backyard bonfire is the perfect way to stay cozy while enjoying the crisp winter air. Roast marshmallows, tell stories, and soak up that holiday magic.
đź’ˇ Ideas to Make It Special:
Make s’mores with holiday-themed candies like peppermint bark or caramel squares.
Add a cup of hot cider or mulled wine to the mix for the adults.
Bring blankets and pillows for extra comfort.
10. DIY Winter Games
Create your own backyard “Winter Olympics” with simple games like:
Snowball toss (use a bucket or hoop as a target).
Snowman race (see who can build one the fastest).
Snow angel contest (most creative design wins).
No snow? Adapt the games for the season—like sack races or cornhole with holiday-themed bean bags!
Make This Winter Magical
Winter adventures don’t have to be elaborate to be memorable. Whether you’re sledding down a hill or simply admiring the lights, the key is spending time together and soaking up the season’s magic. So bundle up, get outside, and make these final days before Christmas ones to remember!
What’s your favorite winter outdoor activity? Share it in the comments—I’m always looking for inspiration. Happy adventuring, and Merry Christmas! 🎄✨