Winter break is the perfect time to embrace the holiday spirit, relax after a busy semester, and enjoy time with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to cozy up inside, dive into a new hobby, or get a head start on future plans, the coming weeks will be full of opportunities to recharge and make memories! Here’s a mix of ideas to help you make the most of your time off:
1. Hot Chocolate Flight
There are so many different flavor combinations for hot chocolate: peppermint, dark chocolate, caramel — and even more toppings to choose from. Try mixing and matching different kinds just to try something new!
2. Constellations & Cocoa
Have some of that hot chocolate left over? Take it with you outside! Winter nights are perfect for stargazing. Look for iconic winter constellations like Orion, Gemini, and Taurus, or make a game of spotting shooting stars.
3. Bookish Bliss
Set a reading goal and choose books you’ve been curious about. Whether it’s a cozy holiday novel, a sci-fi saga, or a personal development read, getting lost in a book is a surprisingly relaxing escape from screens and school stress.
4. Cookies & Cheer
Nothing says “holidays” quite like cookie decorating! Invite friends and family over to make and decorate sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or whatever sweet treats you love. Share your creations with everyone, or give them to your neighbors to spread some joy.
5. Twinkle Tour
Take a special evening to go on a hayride, or explore the lights around your neighborhood or city. Put on your coziest clothes, make a playlist of holiday tunes, and bring some warm drinks for a memorable, dazzling night!
6. Bundle Up & Give Back
Go through your closet to find gently used winter gear, like coats, scarves, and gloves. Donate them to local shelters or charities to help others stay warm this season. It’s a simple but impactful way to give back to others.
7. Dream Big
Gather magazines, printouts, and colorful markers to create a vision board that represents your goals for the coming year! Whether it’s about school or hobbies, visualizing your goals makes them feel more achievable. Plus, it looks cool.
8. New Year, New Space
Use your winter break downtime to declutter your room or study space. Sort through old papers, clothes, or items you no longer need. You’ll feel refreshed and more organized for the new year; remember to donate and recycle what you can!
9. Festive Finds
Many communities host winter markets with food, crafts, and live entertainment. Dress warmly and enjoy browsing for gifts, sampling seasonal treats, and soaking up the festive atmosphere.
10. Snowy Snapshots
Head outside and capture those captivating winter scenes! Be it frosty landscapes or holiday lights, it’s a moment that’ll pass by before you know it — don’t forget to grab a pic.
11. Skate & Celebrate
Head to a local rink for a winter ice skating day! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or you’ve never laced up skates in your life, it’s a classic winter activity that’s fun and energizing.
12. Game Night Delight
Spend a night playing board games or card games with family or friends! You can choose something strategic or silly. Either way, it’s a great way to connect and have a few laughs.
13. Winter Wishes
Create holiday or new year cards with personal messages for friends and family. Feel free to get creative with colors, stickers, and photos to make them extra heartfelt and unique.
14. Movie Magic
Choose a mix of holiday classics, winter-themed films, or recent releases for a movie marathon! Make popcorn, hot chocolate, and snuggle up in your blankets for a relaxing night in.
15. Cozy Creations
Ever want to learn how to knit or crochet? Well, this is your moment! You can find lots of beginner's tutorials online and make something warm, like a scarf, hat, or blanket. They also make excellent gifts.
16. Winged Wonders
Most birds are migratory, meaning come winter you might be able to spot some species in your area you wouldn’t see in warmer months. Grab some binoculars, and head outside for a peaceful way to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty.
17. Frosty Art Fest
Does it snow where you live? Try this out — grab a couple of spray bottles, fill them with water, then add a few drops of food coloring to each. Use them to safely paint snow! You can create color designs, write messages, or add new depth to your sculptures.
18. Candlelit Comfort
Try your hand at candle-making with winter scents like cinnamon, pine, vanilla, or peppermint. Did you know that certain smells can help you study better? Use peppermint of citrus to help with your concentration.
19. A Year to Remember
Write down your favorite memories, accomplishments, and lessons learned from the past year. Journaling helps you reflect on your personal growth and sets a positive mindset for the year ahead, which helps you create...
20. Radiant Resolutions
Kick off the new year with goals that inspire you! Jot down resolutions for areas like school, hobbies, and self-care. From trying something new to improving your habits, this is your time to plan for an incredible year ahead.