Outdoor Winter Activities to Embrace the Cold: Fun in the Snow for the Whole Family

Wintertime doesn’t have to mean staying cooped up indoors! With the right gear and a sense of adventure, snowy days become a playground of possibility. From building snow forts to painting in the snow, there are countless ways to enjoy winter as a family. Plus, getting outside is a great way to encourage kids to be active, explore nature, and make cherished memories in the fresh, crisp air. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best outdoor winter activities for families, and share a few tips on choosing the perfect snowsuits and winter coats to keep everyone warm and cozy.

1. Build a Snow Fort

Snow fort building is a timeless winter activity that brings out the inner architect in kids and adults alike! Creating a snow fort can be as simple or elaborate as you want, and it provides endless hours of imaginative play once it's built.

How to Build Your Snow Fort:

Start with a Good Foundation: Pack down a large, flat area of snow where the fort will go. This provides a sturdy base.
Use Snow Blocks or Pile & Carve: For a more structured look, use a plastic storage bin or mold to create snow blocks and stack them like bricks. If you’re going for a mound-style fort, pile up snow and carve out walls and tunnels.
Make Entrances and Lookout Spots: A good fort has at least one entrance and maybe a lookout hole. Carve gently and reinforce any thinner spots by packing in extra snow.
Add Fun Details: You can make the fort even more fun by adding “windows” made of ice, snowball stockpiles, or even furniture like a snow bench inside the fort!

This activity is a great way to get creative, and as a bonus, it’s excellent exercise. Just make sure kids stay warm and dry with snowsuits and waterproof winter coats. Our store has durable, insulated snowsuits perfect for snowy adventures like these!

2. Make Snow Angels

Making snow angels is a simple, classic winter activity that brings big smiles! This fun activity is especially great for young children who may not be ready for more complex snow activities.

Tips for the Best Snow Angels:

Pick the Right Spot: Find an area with fresh, undisturbed snow that is deep enough to leave an impression without hitting the ground underneath.
Lie Back and Spread Out: Lay back in the snow, spread your arms and legs, and move them up and down to create the angel’s wings and gown.
Get Up Carefully: Stand up slowly, trying not to disturb the impression left behind. You’ll have a perfect snow angel in no time!
Decorate the Angels: Add a face, crown, or even sprinkle food coloring for added effect!

Snow angels require lying down in cold snow, so make sure everyone is bundled up in insulated snow pants and jackets. Our selection of children’s winter coats is designed to keep kids warm, dry, and comfortable—even when they’re lying in the snow for a while.

3. Snow Painting

Snow painting adds a creative twist to a snowy day and lets kids explore their inner artists. It’s as simple as taking a few colored water bottles outside and using the snow as a canvas.

Snow Painting Steps:

Prepare the Paint: Fill small squeeze bottles with water and a few drops of food coloring to create “paint.” You can make several bottles with different colors.
Find a Good Canvas: A flat, white area of snow makes the perfect backdrop for your snow art.
Paint Away: Encourage kids to create designs, draw shapes, or even “write” in the snow.
Experiment with Techniques: Try spraying or squirting the color to create different effects. Kids can mix colors or create snow rainbows!

Snow painting is a mess-free way for kids to get creative outdoors. Just make sure they’re wearing waterproof gloves and warm coats so they stay comfortable while making their masterpieces.

4. Go Sledding

Few things compare to the thrill of sledding down a hill on a snowy day! It’s an activity that brings out pure joy and is perfect for kids of all ages.

Sledding Tips:

Choose a Safe Hill: Look for a hill that’s not too steep and has a long, open run-out area at the bottom.
Wear Helmets and Safety Gear: Especially for younger kids, helmets add extra protection on bumpy sledding hills.
Bring the Right Sled: Sleds come in many shapes and sizes. For younger kids, a sled with a backrest and handles might work best, while older kids may enjoy faster sleds.
Take Breaks to Warm Up: After a few runs, it’s a good idea to warm up with some hot cocoa or snacks!

Sledding can be chilly, so make sure everyone is bundled up in well-insulated snowsuits and jackets to stay warm and dry throughout the day. Check out our store for top-quality winter wear that’s perfect for hours of outdoor fun.

5. Snowball Fights and Target Practice

Snowball fights are a classic winter activity, and with a few extra supplies, you can turn this fun pastime into a more structured game that keeps everyone moving and laughing.

Snowball Fight Tips:

Set Boundaries and Rules: Establish a play area and decide on rules for safety, such as no throwing at faces.
Create a Snowball Target Practice: Use a wall or trees as targets, or set up colored bullseye boards on the snow. Take turns throwing snowballs and see who can hit the target!
Build “Snow Shields”: Kids can make small shields out of snow to hide behind during a snowball fight.
Keep It Lighthearted: Snowball fights should be all about fun, so keep the mood playful and light.

6. Ice Skating on Frozen Ponds

If you have access to a safe, shallow, frozen pond or ice rink, ice skating can be a magical way to enjoy the winter landscape. Many towns maintain ice rinks outdoors in winter, making it a fun, accessible activity for families.

Ice Skating Tips:

Make Sure the Ice is Safe: Only skate on designated frozen areas that have been checked for safety.
Dress in Layers: It can get cold on the ice, so bundle up in layers and a warm winter coat that allows for easy movement.
Bring Along Extra Gear: Helmets are a good idea for younger kids or new skaters. You might also want to bring knee and elbow pads for extra protection.

Bundle Up for Winter Adventures!

All these outdoor winter activities are made easier and more enjoyable when everyone is dressed for the weather. Investing in high-quality snowsuits, winter coats, and waterproof gloves keeps kids warm, dry, and ready for hours of play in the snow. Our store has a wide selection of winter wear designed for comfort, durability, and style. Whether your child is a budding snow fort architect, an enthusiastic sledder, or an ice-skating pro, we have everything you need to keep them warm and cozy all winter long.

So, grab those snowsuits, layer up, and head outside to make the most of the magical winter season with your family!