Our Winter Family Bucket List: Simple, Cozy, Memory-Making Fun

Winter has officially arrived here in the Midwest, and with the first snow falling in Iowa, our family is ready to soak up every magical, cozy, snowy moment we can. Instead of letting winter feel long, cold, and endless, we decided to make a Winter Family Bucket List—filled with simple activities that bring us together, spark laughter, and make the season feel special.

Some days we’ll be outside bundled up and rosy-cheeked (those are days spent best with dad). Other days we’ll be cozied up inside with warm blankets, movies, or fresh-baked treats from the oven (days meant for time with mom). No pressure, no perfection—just real family moments.

Whether you’re looking for weekend ideas, holiday fun, or ways to make the most of snow days, here’s what’s on our Winter Bucket List this year:

❄️ Outdoor Adventures ❄️

Build a snowman (or an entire snowman family!

Go sledding at our favorite local hill

Make snow angels

Have a friendly snowball fight

Visit a Christmas light display

Build a snow fort

☕ Cozy Indoor Days ☕

Hot chocolate bar with all the toppings

Blanket fort movie night

Bake cookies or decorate sugar cookies

Winter puzzle challenge

Family game night

Read a winter-themed book together

🎄 Holiday Magic 🎄

Make homemade ornaments

Write letters to Santa

Gingerbread houses

Donate toys or volunteer

✂️ Creative Projects ✂️

DIY snow globes

Paper snowflakes

Winter keepsake crafts

Birdseed ornaments

🎉 New Year Fun 🎉

Family vision boards

Gratitude night

Family New Year's Eve Party

Create family goals for the new year

This list isn’t about adding more to your plate—it’s simply a way to slow down, focus on what matters, and make the most of the season with the people you love most. Winter may be long, but it can also be warm, memorable, and full of joy.

If you’d like to download the printable version, check below—share your own winter bucket list or save this one for inspiration!