I’m probably one of the few people who don’t mind the winter. Once I get past the holidays, winter calls me to settle down and reflect on the previous year and what I want this new year to feel like. I consider winter my hibernation season, but I still want to make it fun and stay active so that I won’t fall victim to seasonal depression. I still desire my life to be enjoyable and exude ease regardless of the season I’m in.
Winter is the perfect season to do what feels good for the soul. Here are 11 fun things to do in winter designed to help you make the most of the season.
Cook a new recipe
Comfort food tastes better in the winter — I don’t make the rules. Now is the perfect time to finally make that recipe you’ve saved for months. Cook a cozy pasta dish or hot soup that your body will thank you for. Pour yourself a drink of choice, put on some music, and let the somewhat therapeutic process of cooking take you away.
Host a movie night
Whether you’re still in the mood for cheesy holiday rom-coms or want something else that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat, like a thriller, winter is the best time to bundle up with a good movie. Set a few hours aside so that you can submerge yourself in a flick alone or with friends.
Visit a museum
There’s something romantic about getting lost in a building full of art, history, and culture while escaping the cold. I visited the Viktor&Rolf Exhibit at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, which will be running until February 2026, and the fashions floored me.
Try a new workout class
If being more active is one of your New Year’s resolutions, signing up for that pilates, hot yoga, or cycling class is a great way to start and stay warm. I’ve used the Mindbody app to help me easily find and book fitness classes near me.
Visit your local library
Libraries play a huge role in our communities, and it’s important to support them. If you still haven’t grabbed your library card, what better time to do that than now? You can also check to see what events or classes your local library is hosting that interest you.
Go wine tasting
Wine tasting may seem like a summer activity, but it feels more intimate when done in the winter. Warm and cozy tasting rooms are preferred during winter over walking the vineyard. I experienced cider tasting while in Gatlinburg, Tennessee last January during the frigid cold, but the cider, paired with the welcoming environment, warmed me up in no time.
Volunteer your time
Although it’s important year-round, volunteering is even more crucial during the winter months. Donate warm clothes to local shelters, or dedicate an hour or two of your time to an organization.
Plan a solo weekend getaway
A weekend getaway might be what you need to reset and woosah this winter. Whether it’s a cabin or a hotel, use this alone time to reevaluate your goals for the new year, visit a spa, or order room service and bask in peace.
Attend a candle-making class
An intoxicating candle is necessary for a cozy space this winter; a candle made by you is even better! If there’s a candle-making class near you, I highly recommend taking it. Not only is it a fascinating experience, but you also get to create your own unique scent and name it. I attended a candle-making class at Bear & Honey Candle in Little Five Points in Atlanta, and it was fun and informative. And my candle, with a note of vanilla, smelled AMAZING.
Snuggle up with a book
You probably have a never-ending TBR (to be read) list haunting you — I know I do. Use a day when it’s too cold to leave the house to stay in, cover up, and lock in with a good book or two.
Revisit any personal projects you’ve neglected
If this is your hibernating season, where you choose to isolate healthily for rest and/or to get things done, then this is the perfect time to revisit any unfinished personal projects or goals from the previous year that you still want to accomplish.
Winter can be a tough time, but I hope this list of fun things to do in winter encourages you to try something new and romanticize the season, even if that means staying in the comfort of your home.