If you live in a region where snow is a rarity, it’s easy to feel like winter magic is out of reach. However, even without snowy landscapes, you can create fun, festive experiences that bring your family together and capture the spirit of the season.
Nothing beats the thrill of skiing down snowy slopes or building snowmen in the backyard, especially for families with young kids. Winter may be synonymous with snow and frost, but it doesn’t have to damper your outdoor fun. With the right mindset, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, keep the kids entertained and make the most of winter, snow or not. Here are some ideas to inspire your winter adventures.
Go ice skating
For those in warmer climates, ice skating is a beloved winter activity that captures the season’s charm. Many cities and towns set up seasonal rinks in parks or plazas, complete with holiday lights and music. Skating under twinkling lights can make the experience magical for families. Don’t forget to bundle up with scarves and gloves to add a cozy touch, even if the weather doesn’t call for it.
Take a winter train ride
Hop aboard a scenic, winter-themed train for a relaxing and picturesque adventure through mountains, forests or cityscapes. Many routes offer cozy interiors, holiday decorations and festive extras like hot chocolate, storytelling or even a visit from Santa.
Visit a Christmas market
Head to your local Christmas market to explore holiday-themed treats, handmade crafts and seasonal decorations. Many markets feature live entertainment, from carolers to local musicians or even horse-drawn carriage rides. Warm up with hot drinks like mulled wine or cocoa and soak in the seasonal atmosphere.
Attend an outdoor movie night
Some communities host outdoor movie screenings during the winter, complete with blankets and heaters to keep guests comfortable. Check your local event listings for seasonal-themed movies being shown in parks or open-air theaters. It’s a fun way to embrace the cooler weather while enjoying a family-friendly activity.
Stroll around decorated neighborhoods
One of the best parts of winter is the dazzling display of holiday lights. Many neighborhoods and local parks go all out with elaborate light displays or walkable holiday light shows featuring twinkling arches, animated decorations and festive music. For added fun, make it a scavenger hunt by looking for specific items like reindeer, candy canes or snowflakes.
Host a backyard campfire night
Gather around a fire pit for an evening of stories, toasted marshmallows and cozy blankets. Without the snow, you can set up comfortable seating on the grass or patio and string up some lights for ambiance. Add a seasonal touch with a warm pumpkin spice latte and classic campfire treats like s’mores. This is an easy way to enjoy quality time outdoors without needing elaborate plans.
As Casey Rooney of Get On My Plate says, “Here in Northern California, there is no snow but it still gets chilly. We like to bundle up and go to the beach for a bonfire. If we can’t make it to the beach, we have a fire pit in the backyard, and we all wear Snuggies and sip wine and hot chocolate by the fire in the winter.”
Embrace the beauty of winter hiking
Winter hiking offers a chance to see familiar trails in a new light. Quiet paths and the stark beauty of bare trees create a serene landscape perfect for exploration. Wear warm layers, pack some snacks and look for unique winter sights like colorful winter berries. It’s a great way to stay active, bond as a family and experience nature in a whole new way.
As Amanda Luhn of Knoxville Backyard & Beyond says, “Go hiking. Without leaves on the trees, you sometimes get much better views in winter. And in the Smokies where I live, it can sometimes be too hot and muggy in the summer to hike, whereas winter often has the perfect temperatures for getting out on the trail.”
Try birdwatching and wildlife tracking
Winter is an excellent time to introduce children to the art of birdwatching. With the trees bare, it’s easier to spot feathered visitors in the backyard or local park. Setting up a bird feeder and encouraging your kids to identify the different species that visit can be both entertaining and educational.
For older children, wildlife tracking can be an exciting addition. Look for footprints, droppings or other signs of animals. This hands-on experience fosters curiosity and a deeper connection to nature.
Enjoy stargazing
Winter’s clear, cold air often provides some of the best conditions for stargazing. Bring a telescope or binoculars and find a dark spot away from city lights. Lay on the ground or recline in chairs to marvel at the constellations and, if lucky, catch a shooting star or two.
Organize a hot chocolate stand
Set up a DIY hot chocolate stand in your driveway or yard. Offer various toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, sprinkles or candy canes. Neighbors and friends can join in for a cozy, community-oriented activity.
One last thing
Remember, winter is only as dull as you let it be. So venture outside to create lasting family memories that don’t depend on snow. Whether it’s in your backyard or a community park, the open air awaits. Who knows? You might start a new outdoor winter tradition that your family will cherish for years to come.
Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting. It’s a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things parenting.