Surviving Winter: Fun Activities to Brighten the Season
Winter can feel like it drags on forever, especially in February when the days are short, and the weather is cold. If you’re like me, you might start feeling like winter will never end. That’s why I decided to make a list of fun activities to try to help me get through the season.
Scroll to the bottom to download a printable checklist page to record your own activities.
Here’s what’s been keeping me busy and lifting my spirits:
Do Something Fun (Even in Winter!)
Take A Walk With My Dog Marley
There’s nothing like getting outside for a bit of fresh air—even if it’s just around the yard. If the weather permits, Marley and I love going for a walk. It’s a great way to enjoy nature on days when the temperatures aren’t too cold.
Read A Book
Spending so much time staring at a screen can be draining. That’s why I love picking up a physical book. One of my favorites is The Whisper on the Night Wind by Canadian explorer Adam Shoalts. His adventures in the wilderness make for a perfect escape on a chilly winter day.
Watch Funny Dog Videos
When it’s too chilly to go outside, Marley and I curl up inside and watch funny dog videos on YouTube. We both find it’s an instant mood booster!
Revisit Music from the ‘80s
Throwing it back with some old-school ‘80s music videos (the soundtrack of my childhood) never fails to bring a smile. The hair was bigger, the eye shadow was bolder and bluer, and the music… pure feel-good nostalgia.
Play Words of Wonder
I’ve recently become hooked on this word game. It’s a great way to unwind and exercise your brain, and it’s perfect for those cozy winter nights inside.
Look for Beauty in the Everyday
Even in winter, there’s beauty to be found. I challenge myself to look for something interesting or beautiful every day. Whether it’s the frost patterns on the windows, the sparkling ice on trees after freezing rain, or animal tracks in the snow, there’s always something to appreciate.
I’ve started keeping a journal to jot down what I see or even take a picture of it. It’s like a gratitude journal, but with a visual twist. Right now, I’m loving the view from my living room, where the light changes throughout the day, lighting up a stand of birch trees in different ways. It’s like having my own personal reality TV show right outside my window.
On sunny days, I make the most of a blue sky. I make sure to look up frequently to enjoy it plus I find the bright sunlight often lifts my mood.
Get Moving with Virtual Walks
When it’s just too cold to walk outside, I’ve been doing virtual walks on YouTube. There are so many beautiful city and national park walks available to explore, and it’s a great way to get the blood flowing without leaving the house.
Comfort Food
You can’t forget comfort food in the winter. I’ve made it a point to enjoy at least one of my favorite meals every week—whether it’s homemade chili, a big bowl of tuna casserole, or a pepperoni pizza. These dishes are the perfect way to soothe the soul during the coldest months.
Make Plans For Summer
I love to travel so I often make plans for summer trips. Looking at pictures of the places I want to go cheers me up and gives me something to look forward to.
Bonus Winter Fun Ideas:
- Indoor DIY Projects: Winter is a great time to take on indoor projects. Maybe you could try a DIY craft project, like making your own handmade greeting cards for friends and family or designing a scrapbook page to capture special memories. You could also tackle a home improvement project you’ve been putting off—nothing like staying productive during the colder months!
- Try Virtual Tours: If you can’t get outside, consider taking virtual tours of museums or historical sites. It’s an easy way to “travel” from the comfort of your home.
- Start a Creative Hobby: Winter is a great time to pick up a new hobby. Whether it’s knitting, painting, photography, or even adult coloring, trying something new can give you a sense of accomplishment. I’ve been experimenting with digital art myself, and it’s been a fun way to flex my creativity.
- Winter Stargazing: If the sky is clear, bundle up and look up at the stars. Winter skies can be stunning, and you might even spot a shooting star or a constellation you hadn’t noticed before. If it’s too cold for that, stargazing apps are a fun way to learn about the night sky from inside.
- Watch Tropical-Themed Movies or TV Shows: When the winter chill is getting you down, why not escape to a warm, sunny place with a tropical-themed movie or TV show? Death in Paradise is my favorite for its beautiful Caribbean setting and intriguing mysteries. Or, you could take a stroll down the beaches of Hawaii with Magnum P.I., a classic that combines great scenery with a little bit of mystery and action.
Create Your Own Winter Fun List!
I’ve shared a few ideas that have worked for me, but now it’s your turn! I’ve created a printable PDF where you can write out your own list of winter activities to try. Whether it’s outdoor adventures, cozy indoor hobbies, or simple pleasures that make the season brighter, I hope you find something that keeps you going through the winter months.
Click the link or the image below to grab your Free Winter Survival Checklist and make your own list.
