Key takeaways
- December is the perfect month to blend outdoor adventure and cozy indoor fun.
- Winter activities like skating, sledding, and light shows are great ways to stay festive.
- Crafts and baking add warmth, creativity, and delicious moments to your winter break.
- Holiday events and performances make it easy to celebrate and support your community.
- Take time to relax, recharge, and give back.
Spice up your December with a list of fun things to do in winter! We’ve rounded up cozy, creative, and exciting activities for everyone to enjoy this season. December is packed with holidays and cheer. Whether you’re somewhere snowy or sunny, there are many ways to make it magical.
Outdoor activities
If you live somewhere chilly, these are perfect ways to soak in that winter wonderland. But don’t worry—many of these activities can be done indoors, too! Check for local indoor ice rinks or winter-themed attractions near you.
- Ice skating. Don’t worry if you’re not a pro—ice skating is for everyone! Lace up your skates, hit the rink, and follow it up with a cozy cup of hot cocoa or coffee with friends.
- Sledding and skiing. Grab your friends and hit the slopes or a local sledding hill! Some ski resorts even offer tubing hills and student discounts. A day of snow, laughter, and fresh air, followed by a warm dinner, is a perfect December combo.
- Build a snowman. You’re never too old for this one. Gather your friends, get creative, and see who can make the best snow creation. Bonus points for unique accessories or snow pets!
- Holiday light displays. Bundle up, grab snacks, and explore local neighborhoods or parks that go all out with light displays. Many cities have drive-thru options for a warm, car-friendly adventure!
Crafts and baking
For those cozy nights in, these craft or culinary activities are perfect. Most require minimal supplies and are great for solo creativity or group fun.
- DIY holiday decorations. Create paper garlands, snowflakes, or wreaths to bring festive cheer to your dorm or apartment. Turn on your favorite holiday playlist and make it a full-on decorating party.
- Gingerbread houses. Go for a simple kit or bake from scratch. Either way, decorating gingerbread houses never goes out of style. Try making it a friendly competition for extra fun!
- Make and decorate cookies. Nothing says December like fresh cookies. Host a cookie-decorating party with friends or roommates and share your creations (and the crumbs).
- Make homemade gifts or cards. Put your creative skills to work by crafting personalized gifts or homemade cards. It’s thoughtful, budget-friendly, and adds a personal touch that store-bought gifts can’t match.
Go to specialty events
Looking for activities that really bring the holiday spirit to life? Specialty events, from festive markets to live performances, can make December extra memorable. Whether you’re exploring a winter festival or giving back to your community, these activities are great for celebrating the season in style.
- Attend a holiday market or festival near you. Swap out online shopping for local fun! Many cities and college towns host holiday pop-up markets, winter festivals, and craft fairs where you can find handmade gifts and seasonal treats.
- Rockefeller Center. If you find yourself in New York City, this iconic skating rink and Christmas tree scene are unforgettable. Even just walking through the lights feels like stepping into a holiday movie.
- See a holiday play or concert. Celebrate the holiday season with a live performance. Many local theaters, colleges, and community centers host holiday plays, choir concerts, or winter recitals through December. From “The Nutcracker” to “A Christmas Carol,” it’s a fun way to support local talent and get in the festive mood.
- Volunteer or donate. Give back this season by volunteering at local organizations like food pantries, animal shelters, or national programs like Toys for Tots. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate and connect with your community.
Cozy or crazy nights in
When it’s too cold to go out, there’s nothing better than leaning into the comfort of a cozy night at home. Whether you’re relaxing solo or with friends and family, these ideas can keep your winter nights full of cheer.
- Hot chocolate and movie night. Keep it simple and cozy with a holiday movie marathon and hot chocolate bar. Try fun toppings like whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or peppermint sticks.
- Winter game or puzzle night. Invite friends over for a night of board games or puzzles. Play something like classic Monopoly or go festive with a holiday-themed trivia game. Pair it with snacks or holiday drinks for the ultimate chill night.
- Holiday story or book night. Curl up with a blanket, a warm drink, and a favorite holiday book or story. Read solo for a peaceful night in or share aloud with friends for a cozy gathering.
- Ugly sweater holiday party. Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah all fall in December. Celebrate them all with your friends in the ugliest holiday sweaters you can find. And if you’ve been trolling TikTok, you know there are tons of fun games to bring into the fun.
Have fun wrapping up your December
This December, enjoy a little of everything—from a snowy adventure to a cozy night in or a festive event. Build a snowman, bake your favorite cookie, or watch a holiday movie with friends. Whatever you do, make time to enjoy your winter break this year.
If you want to spend some time this month thinking about your future, College Raptor can help. You can try our FREE Career Finder tool to explore potential opportunities for your future and discover paths that fit your interests.
