Having lived in Wisconsin my whole life, I am far too used to having to rack my brain for things to do when the cold weather hits. It’s freezing outside, most times without the pretty leaves or snow to keep me sane. And inside is just not as fun. I’m all for cuddly Netflix nights, just not every day. But between family outings, hanging out with friends, and going on dates in the winter, I now have a pretty decent idea about what you can do to keep yourself busy!
1. Christmas shopping.
Going out to the mall or my favorite stores seems to always put me in a good mood! Holiday displays are up and there are always some good sales (perfect for broke college students). Plus, you will automatically get ideas of what to get whoever you’re shopping with!
2. Go ice skating.
Race your friends around the rink or hold hands with your significant other on a sweet date. Even if you have a complete lack of balance like I do, attempting to ice skate and falling on your butt is still better than watching from the sidelines.
3. Make a blanket fort.
I bet you haven’t made a fort in years and if that’s the case then get out your blankets, make some popcorn, and get cozy. Put on your favorite holiday movie and just feel like little kids again! Believe me, it beats sitting on a plain ol’ couch.
4. Bake Christmas cookies.
What’s better than the smell of sweets in your house? Whether you make sugar cookies, chocolate chip, or gingerbread men, there isn’t a time of the year when they taste better than during the holiday season!
5. Look at Christmas lights.
If your town has a Christmas lane, a local light show, or just some seriously decorated houses, make a plan to find them! Grab some hot cocoa, put on the Christmas music, and be prepared to stare in awe. The warmth of Christmas lights against the snow is a magical moment everyone has to experience.
6. Wrap Christmas presents.
You have to do it anyway, so you might as well make a day of it! Watch "The Grinch," stay in your pajamas, and set a goal to wrap all the gifts in one day!
7. Go on a nature walk.
Put on your thick socks, scarves, and snow boots and go for a walk through a snow-covered park. It’s nice to get out of the house and spend time in the fresh air. But don’t try to dress all cute, you will regret it when your fingers and toes go numb!
8. Check out local activities.
During the winter, all cities seems to have different events going on. Find a holiday play, ice sculpture competition to watch, or a winter festival. Get out there and start a new tradition!
9. Have a game night.
A little competition is always fun! Pick out a board game, play Heads Up, or go classic with charades. You’ll get to stay in and be warm, but still have a good time with your friends or family!
10. Build a snowman.
Create your very own Olaf! Use coal and a carrot, or be more creative! Anything works, it’s up to you (I think I used celery and a funnel one year)!
11. Get crafty.
Homemade gifts are always my favorite. There’s no better way to show your loved ones you care than by making something especially for them. Scroll through Pinterest, grab your glue gun, and get to work!
12. Sledding.
In my opinion, one of the best winter activities ever! There’s just something about sliding down an icy hill, laughing your head off on the way to the bottom, and most likely running into kids or trees on the way! Helpful tip: if you and your friends decide to connect your sleds and slide down, you WILL fall off and snow WILL get down your pants.
