20 Fun Ideas for Winter Break

Holiday break is here for the kiddos and you might be wondering what the heck am I going to do with these little elves for two weeks? I’ve compiled a list of 20 ideas for winter break to help keep everyone entertained. Hopefully there is something new in here to inspire or to even just refresh. Here we go!

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that Aloha Lovely may receive a small commission if you decide to purchase any of the linked products or services. Mahalo.

20 Ideas for Winter Break

1. Visit a Museum – Children’s museums, art museums, science museums, they’re all a good option of a fun and educational outing with the kids. Make a day of it and having a learning adventure.
2. Go to the Library – Everyone remember the library? It’s still a great (and usually free) place to take the kids to spend an hour or two combing through books. Grab a couple for yourself and you can continue the cozy reading session at home.
3. Get Crafty – Head out to a local pottery painting studio or stay at home and get creative with some holiday crafts. Check out this Pinterest board for some ideas.
4. Volunteer – Head out to the local animal shelter and take dogs for walks or help out with a local beach or park clean up. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and encourage your kids to help out the local community.
5. Have Smores by a Bonfire – Regardless of your geographical location, smores are always a good idea. Whether on the beach or in the backyard, bundled up with blankets, break out the grams, chocolate and marshmallows and enjoy some sweet treats.
6. Visit the Zoo – Zoos are typically open year-round and make a great day outing regardless of the age of your kiddos. Spend the morning wandering around and then grab lunch at a local mom & pop lunch spot. Our personal favorite is the Honolulu Zoo.
7. Have a Family Game Night (or Day) – Bring out a few favorite classics and chill out at home. Get competitive or keep it silly. Some of our go-to games include: Dominos, Clue and Uno.
8. Go on a Hike – Head out on a short stroll down a local trail or depending on the weather make a 1/2 day of it. Pack lots of snacks and play a nature scavenger hunt along the way.
9. Tour Local Holiday Displays – Holiday displays are typically up until the New Year and will probably be less crowded after Christmas. Head out to see some local light displays or the town square Christmas tree. Pair the outing with some hot cocoa or other sweet treat.
10. Go Sledding – Or hit the beach, really just depends on your location. There is always an opportunity for some free outdoor local fun.
11. See a Matinee – Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Matinees tend to be less expensive and you can really make an afternoon out of it. Add some popcorn and snacks and its an easy option.
12. Go to the Playground – Head over to a playground that you haven’t been to in a while. Refresh an old favorite, bring some backyard toys and keep it easy.
13. Camp out by the Christmas Tree – There is something magical about sleeping near the Christmas tree. Lights are twinkling and lots of pillows and blankets make for a cozy adventure.
14. Take a Class – Learn something new. Check out the local community center or library for options. You’re bound to find something new to explore.
15. Go to the Pool – Hitting the pool, whether indoor or outdoor, can be a fun day activity.
16. Have a Holiday Movie Marathon – We all have our favorites. Make sure you catch up on all the holiday classics that mean something to you and your family.
17. Take a Day Trip – Head out on a day trip. Explore a new area and try to keep your driving distance to a minimum. Check out Yelp for local recommendations on where to eat and what to check out.
18. Go Ice Skating – There are rinks almost everywhere (even on Oahu) Bundle up and enjoy an afternoon of skating.
19. Have a Bake Off – Find a few new recipes on Pinterest and have a bake-off. Do tastings of the treats after and vote for your favorite treats.
20. Do a Scavenger Hunt – Create a scavenger hunt. Could be outdoor or indoor depending on the weather. As always, consult Pinterest for inspo. 🙂

What are some of your favorite activities to do on winter break? Are you out and about or do you prefer to relax at home? I’d love to hear about them in the comments. Mele Kalikimaka everyone!

Pin for Later

Craving more family fun? I’ve got you covered.

Honolulu Zoo: Invest in Some Family Fun

Christmas Trees in Hawaii: Helemano Farms