Cold weather just has a way of ruining plans, right? Actually, it really doesn’t. If you think about it, it’s just that our idea of cold weather doesn’t go well with our idea of the ‘perfect’ day. It turns out that there are so many ways to embrace the cold weather, and not only indoors! These cold-weather fun backyard ideas don’t involve bare feet and cocktails, but they’ll turn your winter days into something to enjoy, rather than something to endure.
1. Backyard Fire Pit Nights
Fire pits have everything you need to turn a cold evening into a cozy gathering. Simplicity, warmth, and togetherness. If you’ve already got a built-in fire pit in your backyard, all of the work has been done for you. The alternative would be a makeshift bonfire with comfortable seating and blankets. Wood-burning pits bring that authentic crackle and scent, while gas pits come with more warmth and less smoke. The goal is not to impress so top the evening off with some roastable snacks and you’re good to go.
2. Outdoor Hot Chocolate Bar
An outdoor hot chocolate bar sounds like a lot of work, but it’s totally worth it. Set up a sturdy table close to seating or a fire source to keep the drinks warmer for longer. Or, bring out an insulated dispenser or slow cooker to do the warming for you. While hot chocolate is a classic treat by itself, you can never go wrong with some marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon, shaved chocolate, and caramel drizzle. It’s a hot chocolate ‘bar’ after all. Lastly, remember that this is not the time for dainty, delicate cups and cute spoons. The thicker and easier to grip, the better.
3. Winter Movie Night Outdoors
Sitting still in cold weather certainly doesn’t feel like a fun backyard idea, but it could be if you’ve got the right plan. With winter movie nights under the stars, blankets replace lawn chairs and the movie does the entertaining. Think cozy, nostalgic, or a lightly adventurous movie to match the mood. All you have to do is find the perfect space, mount and test a suitable projector, locate a white wall or set up a suitable screen, and connect a speaker. And snacking is essential, so don’t forget the popcorn, pretzels, and a mug of something warm. For extra heat, you can place a fire fit or another heat source behind the seating area to bring the ambiance without blocking the view.
4. Outdoor Winter Camping
Backyard camping is an adventure, especially if you’ve got kids, and the cold just makes it more exciting. You can see it as a challenge to keep yourselves warm and if it really gets unbearable, your cozy beds are a few steps away. But fear not because tents trap warmth surprisingly well if you use thick ground mats or foam tiles for insulation. You can also add a fire pit for extra heat and layer up with sleeping bags rated for low temperatures, thermal base layers, and wool socks. Spend the night telling stories, playing card games, or simply listening to the sounds of nature over warm drinks.
5. DIY Outdoor Bonfire
Most of these cold-weather fun backyard ideas incorporate a fire pit or bonfire in a way, but it can also be an experience on its own. Choose a suitable open area far from structures and overhanging branches and use a designated fire ring lined with fire-safe materials. Remember to keep fire tools and water or sand nearby. It sounds like too much work, but safety always comes first, especially with fire. Logs, benches, or sturdy chairs can all work at a safe distance, inviting group storytelling, shared moments, and music throughout the night.
6. Marshmallow Roasting Station
Long skewers, a solid heat source, and marshmallows. That’s all you need to turn a simple treat into a full experience. And if you want to get fancy, throw some chocolate squares, biscuits, fruit slices, or nut spreads into the mix. A marshmallow roasting station proves that winter fun doesn’t need complexity and all ages can participate. The fire provides the heat, while the marshmallows provide the excitement. For added fun, combine this idea with an outdoor movie night, bonfire, outdoor camping, or any of the other cold-weather fun backyard ideas.
7. Lawn Games
Lawn games usually go well with barbecues, pool parties, and other summer activities. But have you ever considered whipping out the games when it’s cold out? The key is to choose games that encourage movement because it keeps energy high and bodies warm. Think ring toss, bean bag toss, oversized board games, and even a classic game of tag. These may not sound like the most exciting games, but they don’t need find motor precision, which is perfect for uncooperative cold hands.
8. Outdoor Soup Station
Outdoor movie nights have popcorn, marshmallow roasting stations and hot chocolate bars have sweet treats, and outdoor soup stations have comfort food. Use some slow cookers or insulated pots to prevent your warm soups from getting cold. You can set out two or three options with toppings like croutons, cheeses, herbs, and breads. Sturdy bowls are the best choice for this setup because flimsy crockery won’t cut it if you’re wearing gloves and mittens.
9. Snow Activities
Cold weather doesn’t necessarily mean snow, but if it shows up, use it. Put on some waterproof gloves and boots and enjoy your temporary playground. Build snowmen, have snowball fights, make snow angels, and use sleds or trays on gentle slopes. You can also use some watercolor paint to color the snow or syrup to make snow cones. Keep the activities short and take frequent warm-up breaks indoors because snow activities tend to burn energy fast.
10. Cozy Reading Or Storytelling Setup
Instead of a playground or campground, you can turn your cold backyard into a quiet retreat. Use comfy seating layered with cushions and enough blankets and position them close together to trap warmth. It’s a lot like a fire pit night, but you don’t need a fire to tell stories or read books. Add some lanterns or clip lights and choose stories that fit the season. Think folktales, mysteries, or personal stories over hot drinks or cups of soup.
11. Winter-Themed Photoshoot
Make the most of the cold weather and capture the moment while you’re at it. Whether you hire a professional photographer or do it all yourself, you’ll thank yourself when you look through your photo album in a couple of years. Use simple cold-weather props like blankets, pretty mugs, warm scarves, and lanterns in spots with texture like fences, trees, or fire pits. If matching outfits aren’t an option, you can achieve the same cohesive look with coordinated colors.
