Winter is here, and while the cold might tempt us to stay wrapped up in blankets all day (no judgment), it’s also the perfect time to embrace fun indoor activities that bring joy and keep the winter blues at bay. Here are some of my favorite ways to make the most of those chilly days without stepping outside!
Fun Indoor Activities
1. DIY Craft Projects
Winter is the ultimate excuse to get crafty. From creating your own candles (hello, cozy vibes!) to trying your hand at watercolor painting, the options are endless. Don’t worry about being “good” at it—it’s all about the process. Bonus points if you make cute gifts for friends. If you don’t have any inspiration at this moment, Pinterest is full of DIY crafts projects. One project is one my to-do list one day is to make a terrarium.
2. Host a Movie Marathon
There’s something magical about binge-watching movies when it’s freezing outside. Make it extra special by picking a theme—90s rom-coms, fantasy adventures, or feel-good classics. Add a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, and Pizza to complete the experience. I have my weekly movie nights and I love them. I make it extra cozy, get some snacks, and enjoy the movie. It is one thing I look forward to.
3. Cook or Bake Something New
Winter is basically baking season. Try making homemade bread (it’s easier than you think and smells amazing) or experiment with fun desserts like cookies or cupcakes. If baking isn’t your thing, whip up a comforting winter soup or stew. You might just discover your new favorite recipe. Plus: if you make soup or stew, you will also get warm from the inside.
4. Create a Mini Spa Day
Transform your space into a sanctuary with a DIY spa day. Light some candles, play soothing music, and indulge in face masks, a bubble bath, or even an at-home manicure. It’s a perfect way to relax and recharge. You deserve a moment for yourself. It doesn’t have to be a whole day, even one or two hours can recharge your battery.
5. Learn Something New
Winter feels like the ideal time to pick up a new hobby or skill. Learn to play that instrument you’ve been eyeing (my ukulele is finally getting some love this year) or take an online course in something you’ve always wanted to explore. Another thing I might want to learn is hula hooping. I’ve never been able to do it as a kid. I was not good at it. But there are hula hoops for fitness these days and I know someone who hula hoops while watching TV. This way you exercise and watch something fun.
6. Board Games or Puzzle Night
Whether it’s a solo puzzle challenge or a board game battle with friends, this is such a fun way to pass the time. Bonus: You might discover a new favorite game that has become a winter tradition. Here in the Netherlands, I know Hitster is very popular. I think it is a game for everyone who loves music and who doesn’t love music.
7. Create an Indoor Picnic
Who says picnics are only for sunny days? Spread out a blanket, pack some snacks, and have a picnic right in your living room. Add fairy lights and some cozy pillows for extra charm.
8. Get Lost in a Good Book
There’s no better time to dive into a new book (or an entire series) than when it’s cold outside. Pair it with a warm drink, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a cozy day. I am obsessed with reading these days. It is only 6 January and I am already my third book of the year. But it doesn’t matter how fast or slow you read. Reading is just fun. You can enter a whole new world and forget about reality for a second.
9. Do a Closet or Space Makeover
Winter is great for decluttering or redecorating. Tackle that closet you’ve been avoiding or rearrange a room for a fresh vibe. It’s surprisingly satisfying and makes your space feel brand new. You can go through your closet and donate or sell everything you don’t want anymore. You can probably make someone else happy with it.
10. Plan Your Dream Life
Grab your journal or Pinterest account and start planning your dream life. Vision boards, goal setting, or simply daydreaming—it’s a creative and uplifting way to spend a snowy afternoon. Pinterest is my favorite social media platform. I think I could spend hours on Pinterest, just saving photos.
So, the next time winter has you stuck inside, give one of these activities a try. Who knows? You might discover a new favorite pastime. What are your go-to indoor activities? Let me know—I’m always looking for fresh ideas to try!
Stay cozy,
Photo by Haley Powers on Unsplash