Fun Winter Activties (Winter Bucket List)

Winter brings with it a special kind of magic. With its snow-covered landscapes and cold air I find beauty in the stillness of winter. But as much as I love to slow down and savor the season I also enjoy making myself a winter bucket list every year to do with my family and friends.

There’s something about winter that invites us to make the most of our time. My winter bucket list is full of ideas to help you embrace the colder months, from fun activities with friends and family to romantic moments and creative projects that warm the soul.

I hope you’ll be trying some of these this year and getting into all the ways you can make this winter one to remember.

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Outdoor Winter Bucket List Ideas

Winter is the perfect time to embrace the cold and get outside for some snowy fun. Whether you’re a fan of active adventures or peaceful winter walks, these ideas will keep you entertained all season long.

Go ice skating at an outdoor rink

Glide across the ice at a festive outdoor rink, surrounded by twinkling lights. It’s a magical way to enjoy the crisp winter air and get some exercise too!

Build a snowman with friends or family

Gather up some snow, a carrot, and some sticks to create your own frosty friend. It’s a classic winter activity that never gets old.

Take a winter hike and enjoy the peaceful landscape

Lace up your boots and head out for a quiet hike in the snow. The world looks completely different in winter, with everything blanketed in white.

Have a snowball fight

Channel your inner child and start an epic snowball battle with friends or family. It’s a fun way to burn off energy and enjoy the snow!

Try cross-country skiing

Explore snowy trails while getting a full-body workout. Cross-country skiing is a peaceful and scenic way to experience winter.

Visit a local winter festival

Many towns and cities host winter festivals filled with food, music, and fun. It’s a great way to get out and celebrate the season with your community.

Go sledding at a nearby hill

Grab a sled and race down the hill for an adrenaline-filled afternoon. It’s an easy and fun way to enjoy the snow, no matter your age.

Try snowshoeing through a forest trail

If you love hiking, snowshoeing is a great way to continue the hobby in winter. It allows you to explore areas that might otherwise be inaccessible due to snow.

Go ice fishing

Bundle up and try your hand at ice fishing on a frozen lake. It’s a peaceful and rewarding winter activity for those who love the outdoors.

Take a nighttime walk to see the stars on a clear winter evening

Winter nights often offer clear skies, perfect for stargazing. Bundle up and head out for a quiet walk under the stars.

Visit a local ski resort and spend the day on the slopes

Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, skiing or snowboarding is a thrilling winter sport. Enjoy the fresh powder and stunning mountain views.

Make snow angels in freshly fallen snow

Lie down in the snow and wave your arms and legs to create a snow angel. It’s a simple yet fun activity that brings out the kid in everyone.

Try fat tire biking on snowy trails

Fat tire bikes are designed for snowy or rugged terrain. It’s a fun and adventurous way to cycle even in the winter months.

Host a winter bonfire with hot cocoa

Gather around a fire pit with friends and sip on hot cocoa while enjoying the warmth. It’s a cozy way to enjoy a winter evening outdoors.

Take a polar plunge for an adrenaline rush

Jumping into icy water may seem crazy, but it’s a popular winter tradition in many places. It’s an unforgettable and exhilarating experience!

Explore a frozen waterfall

Visit a nearby waterfall that freezes over in the winter. The sight of frozen water cascading down is truly magical and worth the chilly hike.

Ride a snowmobile through scenic trails

If you’re looking for speed and adventure, snowmobiling is the way to go. Explore miles of snowy trails at top speeds for a thrilling winter day.

Build a snow fort and play capture the flag

Construct a fortress out of snow and challenge friends to a game of capture the flag. It’s a fun way to combine creativity and competition in the snow.

Watch a sunrise or sunset over a snowy landscape

Winter sunrises and sunsets are some of the most beautiful, with vibrant colors reflecting off the snow. Wake up early or stay out late to catch the magic.

Try your hand at curling

If you’ve never tried curling, now’s the time! It’s a fun winter sport that’s easy to learn and great for a group.

Indoor Winter Bucket List Ideas

When the weather outside is too chilly to handle, stay warm and cozy inside with these fun activities. From crafting to baking, there’s plenty to do when you’re stuck indoors this winter.

Bake homemade cinnamon rolls

Fill your home with the delicious smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. They’re the perfect treat for a cold winter morning.

Host a winter movie marathon

Cozy up under a blanket and binge-watch your favorite winter-themed movies. It’s the ultimate way to relax on a snowy day.

Try a new soup recipe for a cozy meal

Nothing warms you up like a hot bowl of soup on a cold winter day. Experiment with different ingredients and create your own winter favorite.

Have a board game night with friends

Gather your favorite board games and challenge friends or family to a night of friendly competition. It’s a great way to stay entertained indoors.

Create a hot chocolate bar with all the toppings

Set up a DIY hot chocolate station with marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles. It’s a fun way to warm up after being outside in the cold.

Make your own candles for a relaxing evening

Candle-making is a creative and soothing indoor activity. Choose your favorite winter scents and create something beautiful.

Read a book by the fire

Curl up with a good book and a warm blanket by the fireplace. It’s the perfect way to unwind during the winter months.

Learn to knit or crochet a scarf

Winter is the best time to pick up knitting or crocheting. You can make yourself a cozy scarf to keep warm or give as a gift.

Do a winter-themed puzzle

Puzzles are a great way to pass the time on a snowy day. Choose a winter-themed one for an added seasonal touch.

Host a cookie-decorating party

Bake some cookies and invite friends over for a decorating party. It’s a fun way to get creative and enjoy some sweet treats.

Make homemade bath bombs for a spa night

Create your own bath bombs with soothing scents like lavender or eucalyptus. Enjoy a warm, relaxing bath after a day in the cold.

Organize a cozy book club

Gather some friends and start a book club focused on winter reads. It’s a great way to stay social and engaged during the cold months.

Set up an indoor picnic

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a picnic! Spread a blanket on the floor, pack some snacks, and have a cozy meal indoors.

Have a hot tea tasting

Explore different types of winter teas like chai, peppermint, or ginger. It’s a relaxing way to warm up and discover new flavors.

Create a winter scrapbook

Gather photos, ticket stubs, and other mementos from your winter adventures. Scrapbooking is a creative way to preserve your winter memories.

Host a trivia night

Invite friends over for a cozy trivia night with winter-themed questions. It’s a fun way to challenge your brain while staying warm indoors.

Try indoor gardening with winter plants

Bring a touch of green to your home with easy-to-care-for winter plants like succulents. Indoor gardening is a great way to brighten up your space.

Have a DIY spa day at home

Treat yourself to a day of relaxation with homemade face masks, scrubs, and a warm bath. It’s the perfect way to pamper yourself during the winter.

Watch a virtual museum tour

Many museums offer virtual tours that you can enjoy from the comfort of your home. Explore art, history, and culture without braving the cold.

Host a winter trivia night with friends

Test your knowledge of winter facts, history, and traditions. It’s a fun and cozy way to spend an evening indoors.

Holiday-Themed Winter Bucket List Ideas

Get into the festive spirit with these holiday-themed winter activities. Whether you’re decorating or celebrating, these ideas will make your holidays extra special.

Decorate your home with holiday lights

Brighten up those long winter nights by stringing lights around your home. It’s a simple way to add a festive touch and spread holiday cheer.

Bake holiday cookies and share with neighbors

Whip up a batch of your favorite holiday cookies and share them with friends, family, or neighbors. It’s a sweet way to connect with others during the holidays.

Visit a holiday market

Many cities host festive holiday markets where you can shop for unique gifts and enjoy seasonal treats. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Watch your favorite holiday movies

Grab some blankets and hot cocoa, and have a holiday movie marathon. Classic films like Home Alone or Elf are a must for the season.

Write letters to your future self

Write a letter to your future version of yourself. Writing letters can be a fun holiday tradition. Seal them up and save them to read next year.

Make homemade ornaments

Gather some crafting supplies and create your own unique ornaments. It’s a fun project for all ages and makes your tree extra special.

Host a holiday sweater party

Whether it’s ugly or cute, holiday sweaters bring out the festive vibes. Gather friends for a lighthearted party full of laughter and holiday spirit.

Build a gingerbread house

Assemble a gingerbread house with candies, frosting, and creativity. It’s a fun and festive way to spend a winter afternoon.

Go caroling or listen to holiday music

Gather some friends and spread holiday cheer by singing carols, or just enjoy your favorite holiday tunes at home. It’s an easy way to lift your spirits.

Visit a tree farm

Visiting a tree farm is a classic way to kick off the season. Choose the perfect tree and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Attend a holiday parade

Many towns host holiday parades filled with lights, floats, and music. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit and enjoy community festivities.

Host a Secret Santa gift exchange

Organize a Secret Santa exchange with friends or coworkers. It’s a fun and budget-friendly way to spread holiday cheer.

Create a holiday photo booth at home

Set up a festive backdrop and snap some fun holiday photos with friends or family. It’s a creative way to make memories and capture the holiday season.

Send handwritten holiday cards

In a digital age, handwritten cards add a personal and heartfelt touch. Take the time to write and send holiday greetings to loved ones.

Watch a live performance of The Nutcracker

Whether it’s in person or streamed online, The Nutcracker is a holiday classic. It’s a magical way to celebrate the season.

Make holiday wreaths

Gather pine cones, greenery, and ribbons to make your own holiday wreath. It’s a fun craft that adds a personalized touch to your home.

Host a holiday potluck

Invite friends over and ask everyone to bring their favorite holiday dish. It’s a festive way to share food and spend time together.

Create a holiday countdown calendar

Make a DIY advent calendar with daily treats or activities to count down to your favorite holiday. It’s a fun way to build excitement.

Attend a tree lighting ceremony

Many towns host tree lighting ceremonies to kick off the holiday season. It’s a festive community event worth attending.

Donate toys or food to a local charity

Spread some holiday cheer by giving back to those in need. Donating toys or food is a meaningful way to celebrate the season.

Kids Winter Bucket List Ideas

Winter is a magical time for kids, filled with snow days and holiday fun. These ideas are perfect for keeping kids entertained and active all season long.

Make snow ice cream

Gather fresh snow and mix it with sweetened condensed milk to create a fun winter treat. Kids will love the novelty of making ice cream from snow!

Go on a winter scavenger hunt

Create a list of winter-themed items (like pinecones or snowflakes) and have kids search for them outdoors. It’s a great way to combine outdoor fun with a little learning.

Have a snowball target contest

Set up targets in your yard and see who can hit them with snowballs. It’s a fun way for kids to practice their aim and enjoy the snow.

Decorate cookies together

Get creative with icing and sprinkles as you bake and decorate holiday cookies. Kids will love the hands-on experience of making their own sweet creations.

Make snow paint with food coloring and water

Fill spray bottles with water and food coloring to let kids “paint” in the snow. It’s a creative and colorful way to enjoy the outdoors.

Build a snow maze in your backyard

Shovel paths through the snow to create a maze for kids to explore. It’s a great way to keep them entertained and active outside.

Have an indoor campout

Set up a tent or build a blanket fort indoors for a cozy winter campout. Add some hot cocoa and marshmallows for a full camping experience.

Make bird feeders out of pinecones

Gather pinecones and cover them with peanut butter and birdseed to hang outside. It’s a fun way for kids to connect with nature and help wildlife during the winter.

Go on a winter nature walk

Bundle up and take a walk to explore the changes in nature during the winter months. Kids can observe how the world looks different in the cold.

Make paper snowflakes to decorate the windows

Fold and cut paper to create unique snowflake designs. It’s an easy and creative way to decorate your home for winter.

Set up a hot chocolate bar for kids

Let kids customize their hot chocolate with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles. It’s a simple way to make a cold day more fun.

Create snow globes using jars and glitter

Craft your own snow globes with small jars, glitter, and tiny winter-themed figurines. It’s a magical craft project kids will love.

Make a Wish List

Encourage kids to write their wish lists or holiday hopes. It’s a fun tradition that helps build excitement for the holidays.

Have a winter-themed movie marathon

Set up a cozy spot with blankets and let kids watch their favorite winter or holiday movies. It’s an easy way to spend a snow day indoors.

Go on a sledding adventure

Take the kids to a local hill for an afternoon of sledding. It’s a timeless winter activity that guarantees lots of laughter and fun.

Create a winter science experiment with frozen bubbles

Blow bubbles outside when it’s freezing and watch as they freeze in midair. It’s a fun and educational activity that will fascinate kids.

Make holiday ornaments together

Let kids craft their own ornaments to hang on the tree. It’s a creative way to get them involved in holiday decorating.

Host a family game night

Choose kid-friendly board games or card games and spend the evening playing together. It’s a great way to stay entertained indoors.

Build a snow fort in the yard

Help kids create their own snowy fortress where they can play and pretend. It’s a great way to get creative with snow building.

Have a pajama day

Let the kids stay in their coziest pajamas all day while you enjoy indoor activities together. It’s a relaxing and fun way to embrace the winter season.

Family Winter Bucket List Ideas

Winter is the perfect time for families to come together and make lasting memories. These activities are great for spending quality time with your loved ones, whether indoors or out.

Have a family snowball fight

Split into teams and see who can make the best snowballs and hit the targets. It’s a fun and playful way to bond in the snow.

Make a family snowman

Work together to build the biggest and best snowman you can. Everyone can add their own personal touches, from the carrot nose to the hat.

Host a family movie night

Pick a favorite winter movie, grab the popcorn, and enjoy a cozy night in. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to spend time together.

Go ice skating as a family

Bundle up and hit the rink for a day of ice skating. It’s a fun and active way to spend time together while enjoying the winter chill.

Have a family baking day

Get everyone involved in baking cookies, pies, or any other winter treat. It’s a great way to spend time together and enjoy the delicious results.

Take a family walk through a snowy park

Bundle up and explore your local park covered in snow. It’s a peaceful way to get outside and appreciate the beauty of winter.

Make a family winter scrapbook

Collect photos, mementos, and notes from your winter adventures and create a scrapbook. It’s a great way to capture and remember your time together.

Host a family board game tournament

Choose a few favorite board games and play a tournament style with everyone in the family. It’s a fun way to spark some friendly competition.

Go sledding as a family

Find a local sledding hill and spend the afternoon racing down with your loved ones. It’s a timeless winter activity that everyone can enjoy.

Create a family hot cocoa bar

Set up a hot chocolate station with all the toppings, from marshmallows to whipped cream. Let everyone create their perfect cup of cocoa for a cozy evening.

Decorate the house together for the holidays

Get the whole family involved in setting up holiday lights and decorations. It’s a fun and festive way to prepare for the season.

Attend a holiday concert or play

Many towns offer festive performances during the winter. Take the family to a local concert, play, or holiday event to enjoy the arts together.

Host a family talent show

Let everyone show off their hidden talents in a fun family talent show. It’s a silly and creative way to spend a winter evening.

Go on a family nature walk

Explore your neighborhood or a local nature trail to see how winter has changed the landscape. It’s a great way to get outdoors and appreciate nature as a family.

Have a family breakfast pajama party

Wear your favorite pajamas and cook a big family breakfast together. It’s a cozy way to start the day and enjoy some quality time.

Make homemade holiday cards together

Get creative with paper, markers, and glitter to make personalized holiday cards. It’s a great way for everyone to share their creativity.

Go caroling together as a family

If you enjoy singing, go caroling in your neighborhood or at a local nursing home. It’s a heartwarming way to spread holiday cheer together.

Take a family trip to a ski resort

Whether skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoying the lodge, a trip to a ski resort is a great family winter getaway. It’s a memorable experience for all ages.

Have a winter craft day

Set up a craft table and let everyone in the family make their own winter-themed creations. It’s a fun way to get creative and spend time indoors.

Watch the holiday lights in your neighborhood

Pile into the car with some hot cocoa and drive around to see the holiday lights. It’s a simple and magical way to enjoy the season together.

Travel Winter Bucket List Ideas

Winter is a great time to explore new places, whether you’re hitting the slopes or relaxing in a cozy cabin. These travel ideas will inspire you to take a seasonal getaway.

Visit a winter wonderland destination

Plan a trip to a snowy destination like Aspen or Lake Tahoe for the ultimate winter vacation. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and scenic mountain views.

Take a weekend trip to a cozy cabin

Rent a cabin in the woods and spend a peaceful weekend surrounded by nature. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the winter season.

Go on a winter road trip to explore small towns

Small towns often look like scenes from a snow globe during winter. Plan a road trip to explore charming towns with festive decorations and holiday events.

Book a stay at an ice hotel

Experience the magic of staying in a hotel made entirely of ice. Ice hotels, like the ones in Sweden or Canada, offer a once-in-a-lifetime winter experience.

Take a winter train journey

Board a scenic winter train ride through snowy landscapes. Routes like the Rocky Mountaineer or the Trans-Siberian Railway offer breathtaking winter views.

Go dog sledding

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, try dog sledding through snowy forests. It’s an adventurous way to see the winter landscape.

Visit a European market

Europe is famous for its magical markets filled with festive decorations, handmade gifts, and delicious food. A trip to cities like Vienna or Prague will leave you in awe.

Take a ski trip to a new mountain

Explore a new ski resort this winter for a fresh adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, skiing in a new location is always exciting.

Visit a national park in winter

National parks take on a whole new beauty in winter. Visit parks like Yellowstone or Yosemite to see wildlife and winter landscapes at their finest.

Go snowboarding at a new resort

Try out snowboarding at a new destination this winter. Exploring different terrain adds excitement to your snowboarding experience.

Stay in a log cabin by the lake

Rent a log cabin near a frozen lake for a peaceful winter getaway. You can enjoy ice skating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the fire.

Go on a winter cruise

Explore the northern lights or polar regions by taking a winter cruise. It’s a unique way to travel during the colder months and see something new.

Plan a trip to see the northern lights

Witnessing the northern lights is a bucket-list experience. Plan a trip to locations like Iceland or Alaska for the best chance to see this natural wonder.

Visit a snowy national monument

National monuments take on a new kind of beauty when covered in snow. A visit to places like Mount Rushmore or the Grand Canyon in winter is unforgettable.

Book a warm-weather getaway

If you’re not a fan of cold weather, plan a trip to a tropical destination. Escape to places like Hawaii or the Caribbean for some sunshine and warmth.

Take a winter cruise through the fjords

Norway’s fjords are stunning in the winter, with snow-covered cliffs and icy waters. A cruise through this scenery is a breathtaking experience.

Explore a snow-covered city

Visit cities like New York or Montreal during the winter to experience urban life in a snowy setting. You can enjoy holiday lights, ice skating, and warm cafés.

Go on a snowshoeing expedition

If you love hiking, take your passion to snowy trails by planning a snowshoeing adventure in a new location. Explore scenic winter landscapes on foot.

Stay at a winter spa resort

Treat yourself to a luxury stay at a winter spa resort, where you can enjoy hot tubs, saunas, and massages surrounded by snowy scenery. It’s the ultimate winter relaxation.

Take a winter photography trip

If you love photography, winter offers stunning landscapes and light. Plan a trip to capture snowy mountains, forests, or icy lakes for breathtaking shots.

Creative Winter Bucket List Ideas

Winter is a perfect time to tap into your creative side. These activities will inspire you to craft, write, and make the most of your creative energy during the colder months.

Start a winter-themed journal

Document your thoughts, ideas, and goals in a winter journal. It’s a creative and reflective way to spend your winter evenings.

Learn how to knit or crochet

Pick up some yarn and start learning how to knit or crochet. By the end of winter, you’ll have cozy scarves and blankets to show for it.

Make homemade candles

Create your own winter-scented candles with essential oils like cinnamon and pine. It’s a fun and practical way to add some coziness to your home.

Try your hand at winter photography

Capture the beauty of winter with your camera. Snowy landscapes, frosty windows, and holiday lights make for stunning photos.

Write a winter short story or poem

Channel your inner writer and craft a short story or poem inspired by the winter season. It’s a great way to express your creativity during the cold months.

Couples Winter Bucket List Ideas

Winter is a romantic season filled with cozy nights and snowy adventures. These activities are perfect for couples looking to make the most of the winter months together.

Go ice skating hand-in-hand

Hold hands as you glide around an outdoor rink under the stars. It’s a classic winter date that’s both fun and romantic.

Have a cozy movie marathon

Snuggle up under a blanket and watch your favorite winter or holiday movies together. It’s the perfect way to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

Take a romantic winter walk

Bundle up and go for a walk in the snow, enjoying the peaceful winter landscape. It’s a great way to connect and spend quality time together.

Build a snowman together

Channel your inner child and build a snowman as a couple. Add your own unique touches to create a frosty masterpiece.

Have a winter picnic by the fireplace

Lay out a picnic blanket by the fire and enjoy a cozy indoor picnic. It’s a creative way to make a simple meal feel special.

Go stargazing on a clear winter night

Winter offers some of the clearest skies for stargazing. Bundle up, grab a blanket, and spend the evening admiring the stars together.

Take a sleigh ride

Cozy up under a blanket and go for a romantic sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. It’s a classic winter experience perfect for couples.

Have a hot chocolate tasting

Make or buy different types of hot chocolate and taste them together. It’s a sweet and cozy way to spend a winter evening.

Take a weekend getaway to a winter cabin

Escape to a cozy cabin for the weekend, where you can relax by the fire and enjoy the peace and quiet of winter. It’s a romantic way to recharge.

Watch the sunrise or sunset over the snow

There’s something magical about watching the sun rise or set over a snowy landscape. Wake up early or head out late to share this beautiful moment together.

Bake holiday cookies together

Spend an afternoon baking and decorating holiday cookies. It’s a fun way to bond and enjoy a sweet treat at the end.

Have a holiday decorating night

Decorate your home together for the holidays while listening to festive music. It’s a fun and romantic way to prepare for the season.

Go skiing or snowboarding together

Hit the slopes for a day of skiing or snowboarding. It’s an exciting and adventurous way to enjoy the winter season as a couple.

Have a winter photoshoot

Dress up in cozy winter outfits and take some cute photos together in the snow. It’s a fun way to capture memories and enjoy the season.

Attend a holiday concert or performance

Check out a local holiday concert or play for a festive night out. It’s a great way to enjoy the arts and get into the holiday spirit.

Make homemade holiday gifts for each other

Skip the store-bought presents and make something meaningful for each other instead. It’s a thoughtful and creative way to celebrate the season.

Have a bonfire in the snow

If you have a fire pit, light a bonfire and enjoy the warmth together while surrounded by snow. It’s a cozy and romantic way to spend a winter night.

Take a couples spa day

Treat yourselves to a relaxing spa day, complete with massages, saunas, and hot tubs. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy some pampering together.

Try a winter dessert-tasting

Pick out a few different winter-themed desserts like gingerbread, peppermint bark, or fruitcake, and have a cozy tasting session. It’s a sweet way to explore new flavors and enjoy some seasonal treats together.

Write love letters to each other

Take the time to write heartfelt letters expressing your love and appreciation for each other. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to connect during the winter months.

Conclusion

Winter reminds us of the quiet beauty in the season’s stillness. While the cold air and snow-covered landscapes bring a peacefulness I love, winter also offers the chance to create lasting memories with family and friends.

I hope this winter bucket list has inspired you to embrace the season in all its magic. With ideas for fun, romance, and creativity, there’s a little something here for every winter mood. Make this winter one to remember and enjoy every moment.