Winter solstice falls on December 21st this year, which marks the shortest day of the year. Wait, we’re supposed to celebrate that? Well as you know, the daylight hours have been growing shorter and shorter since Daylight Savings ended. But when the winter solstice hits, the daylight hours will begin to lengthen again. Ancient cultures celebrated the solstice as a return of the sun and hope for new life. Okay, that IS a reason to celebrate!

The winter weather isn’t for everyone — in which case we hope you’re residing in one of the sunny States! But the good news is there are both outdoor AND indoor ways to enjoy winter. We’ve come up with a list of fun activities to help you welcome winter this weekend.

Ice skating
Many arenas offer family or public skating times and offer rentals if you don’t have your own skates. If it gets below freezing where you live, outdoor rinks are typically free and a great way to make winter a blast!

Skiing
If winter is your fave, then welcome it on the slopes! Soft snow, fresh air, and scenic views will have you feeling exhilarated and excited for the new season. Bonus if you end the day at the spa or curled up by the fire.

Outdoor hot tub
Hot tubs provide a warm and blissful environment to enjoy a fresh snowfall. If you have access to an outdoor jacuzzi, slip in to bask in the outdoor air even in the cold winter weather.

Lights display
Most major cities have beautiful light displays around the holidays even if that means driving around to find them! If you head to a holiday festival, you’ll likely find light displays you can walk through for bright and cheerful experience.

Winter hike
Hiking in the snow is tough but the views are stunning and so different than hikes in the summer. Head out of the city to enjoy the scenery — just make sure to bundle up!

Make hot chocolate & enjoy it by the fire
Go loco for hot cocoa and make hot chocolate from scratch. Add marshmallows, whipped cream, or peppermint sticks and cuddle up by the fire for a cozy night in.

Board games night
You might have a few games that are collecting dust on your shelf. Cold winter days and long evenings are the perfect time to invite your friends over and have a friendly competition. If random facts are more your thing, head to a bar for a trivia night to test your knowledge!

Cookie exchange
Ask a few of your friends to bake cookies then invite them over for everyone to exchange the goods! It’s a fun way to enjoy festive baking and time spent with friends, without having to bake everything yourself.

Make a winter craft
Whether you do this solo or with a partner, pick up some supplies at your local craft store, then spend the night getting crafty! Create holiday ornaments, a gingerbread house or an original painting masterpiece.

Host a holiday party
‘Tis the season! Now’s the perfect time to host a holiday party. To keep things simple, make it a potluck so everyone helps out with the food and drinks. Having fun with friends until the wee hours of the morning is a great way to welcome winter.  

Even if winter isn’t your favorite season, you can still embrace the colder days and longer nights with fun winter activities. Whether you prefer to stay indoors, or like the brave the cold outdoors, there’s a ton of bright ideas for winter fun. What’s your favorite winter activity?