As the winter holidays creep in, it becomes that time of year where you start thinking about how you’re going to keep yourself busy, and maybe the grandkids too if they’re around. The cold weather makes it harder to find things that don’t cost a fortune or involve standing outside freezing your backside off. The good news is there are plenty of simple things to do that keep you entertained and give you something to look forward to during the run up to Christmas. Here are eleven winter ideas that are easy, cosy, and perfect for anyone who wants a bit of fun without a lot of fuss.
Watch some festive movies
Nothing beats settling in for the evening with a blanket, some nice snacks and a good Christmas film. It’s the easiest way to get yourself feeling festive without moving much at all. Pick a couple of favourites, grab whoever is around, and have a proper film day. If you’ve got grandkids visiting, let them choose one each and enjoy the peace while they’re glued to the screen. It’s cosy, cheap, and a nice excuse to switch off from everything else.
Visit an aquarium
If you fancy getting out of the house but don’t want to stand in the cold, an aquarium is always a good winter choice. Watching everything drift around the tanks is relaxing, and it keeps little ones mesmerised if you’ve got them with you. Even going on your own is lovely because it’s calm and warm inside. If you feel like turning it into a little break, you can look into extended stay options like extended stay accommodations near the National aquarium in Baltimore and make a slow paced weekend out of it. It’s something different, and it gives you a nice change of scenery.
Go ice skating
Ice skating is one of those things that sounds scary until you’re actually on the ice. You don’t need to be good at it. Half the fun is wobbling around and hoping you stay upright. Indoor rinks are everywhere this time of year and make a nice afternoon out, especially if the grandkids want to burn off some energy. Wrap up warm and give it a go. You might surprise yourself, or you might cling to the barrier the whole time, but either way you’ll have a laugh.
Visit a Christmas market
Christmas markets always feel magical, no matter how many times you’ve been. The lights, the music, the smell of food and mulled drinks drifting through the air. It’s perfect for a slow wander. You can pick up a few bits, taste a few things, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. It’s a nice way to spend a winter afternoon without having to do anything too energetic.
Go bowling
Bowling is one of those things everyone forgets about until they go and remember how fun it actually is. It’s silly, competitive in a friendly way, and you don’t need any skill at all. If you’ve got grandkids, they love it. If not, it’s still a fun little outing that gets you out of the house for a couple of hours. And if you can’t be bothered going out, put on the Wii and have a game at home. Same effect, less effort.
Go for a walk
Sometimes the best thing you can do in winter is wrap up warm and get outside for a proper walk. The cold air wakes you up, and the scenery always looks different this time of year. If you’ve got hills or trails nearby, take a camera and get some photos because winter can be gorgeous. Just be careful if it’s icy because one slip can ruin your week. Take it slow and enjoy it.
Bake some goodies
Baking is perfect in winter because it warms the house up and fills it with nice smells. Grab some basic ingredients and make biscuits, cakes or whatever you fancy. It passes the time, and you get something tasty at the end of it. If the grandkids are around, give them a little job each so they feel involved. If not, keep all the treats for yourself. No judgement here.
Redecorate with the children
Before Christmas is a great time to freshen up the house a bit. Maybe paint a wall, rearrange a room or go through things you don’t use anymore. If the grandkids visit often, let them help with little tasks or choose a few toys they’ve outgrown to donate. It keeps them busy and gives you a cleaner space for the new year.
Do some crafts
Crafting is always fun in winter because you don’t feel guilty for staying indoors. Get the glue, paper and paints out and make your own Christmas cards or little decorations. If the grandkids are visiting, they’ll love it. If it’s just you, put on some music and enjoy doing something creative. It doesn’t have to be perfect. The whole point is that it’s relaxing.
Make Christmas decorations
There’s something special about making your own decorations for the season. You can decorate clear baubles, make paper snowflakes, create place mats for the Christmas table or even try your hand at a wreath. Homemade bits always feel nicer than the shop bought ones, and they give your home a personal touch that makes it feel extra festive.
Take advantage of the snow
If you get lucky with snow, enjoy it while it lasts. Even a short walk in fresh snow feels peaceful. If you’ve got grandkids nearby, get them outside and let them run wild with snowballs and snowmen. If not, just take a quiet moment to enjoy how lovely everything looks when it turns white. Snow never sticks around long, so it’s worth soaking in the moment.
Winter truly is the season to be jolly and just because it’s cold, it doesn’t mean you need to hunker down for the season. There’s lots of fun to be had and so many things you can do to make winter a magical time.