10 Outdoor Holiday Family Traditions

Looking for fun ways to celebrate the holidays outside? Here are 10 outdoor family traditions to try:

1. Make a snow family
2. Go sledding
3. Find winter treasures
4. Walk through holiday lights
5. Visit light shows
6. Make nature wreaths
7. Create ice lights
8. Go ice skating
9. Sing holiday songs
10. Watch winter birds

These activities get families outdoors to bond, make memories, and enjoy nature during the holiday season. Most are low-cost or free and can be adapted for different ages.

Quick comparison of activities:

Activity	Cost	Physical Activity	Creativity	Nature Focus
Snow family	Free	Moderate	High	High
Sledding	Low-moderate	High	Low	Moderate
Winter hunt	Free	Moderate	Moderate	High
Light walks	Free	Low	Low	Low
Light shows	Low-moderate	Low	Low	Low
Nature wreaths	Free-low	Low	High	High
Ice lights	Low	Low	Moderate	Moderate
Ice skating	Low-moderate	High	Low	Low
Caroling	Free	Moderate	Moderate	Low
Bird watching	Low	Low	Moderate	High

Try one or more of these outdoor traditions to add some fresh air and fun to your family's holiday celebrations this year.

Related video from YouTube

1. Make a Snow Family

Want to have a blast this winter? Build a snow family! It's a fun way to get creative and work together as a team.

Here's how to make your own frosty crew:

1. Pick a spot: Find a flat, shady area in your yard. This keeps your snow family from melting too fast.
2. Grab some stuff: Look around your house and yard for decorations. Get creative! Use buttons for eyes, carrots for noses, and whatever else you can find.
3. Start rolling: Make big snowballs for each family member. Use a 3-2-1 size ratio. So if the bottom ball is 3 feet wide, make the middle 2 feet, and the head 1 foot.
4. Stack 'em up: Flatten the top of each snowball before adding the next one. This keeps your snow people from falling apart.
5. Make them unique: Let everyone decorate their own snow person. Use scarves, hats, and other stuff to give each one its own style.

No sticky snow? No problem! Jackie from Happy Hooligans has a cool idea:

"Pile it up and gather up some odds and ends from the yard, and build a 'snowman' with sticks and stones and various garden treasures."

This way, you can get even more creative!

Want to make it extra fun? Try these ideas:

• Make snow versions of your real family
• Take pictures to remember the good times
• Use your snow family as inspiration for stories or drawings when you're back inside

Building a snow family is more than just piling up snow. It's about having fun, working together, and making memories that'll last way longer than your frosty friends.

2. Go Sledding

Sledding is a winter classic that's fun for the whole family. It's a great way to enjoy the snow and make memories. Here's why you should add sledding to your holiday traditions:

It's easy and fun for everyone. No special skills needed - just grab a sled and go!

You'll get some exercise without even realizing it. Walking up snowy hills is a sneaky workout.

It's perfect for family bonding. Ditch the screens and enjoy some laughs together outdoors.

Want to make the most of your sledding adventure? Here are some tips:

Pick the right sled: Different sleds work better for different situations.

Sled Type	Good For	Features
Toboggan	Families	Fits 1-2 riders
Snow Tube	Light snow	Comfy, easy to carry
Disc	Speed	One person, fast
Steering Sled	Control	Lie down to ride

Stay safe: Wear helmets. Most kids hurt their heads in sledding accidents.

Find a good spot: Look for a hill without trees or rocks. Make sure there's space to stop at the bottom.

Dress warm: Layer up with waterproof clothes. Don't forget hats, gloves, and boots with grip.

Be polite: Wait your turn and walk up the sides of the hill.

Want to spice things up? Try these games:

• Hide small prizes around the sledding area for a treasure hunt.
• Have a tug-of-war on sleds.
• Set up a "safari" with stuffed animals to spot while sledding.

Sledding is more than just sliding down a hill. It's about having fun together. As FUNBOY says:

"Each snowy escapade is a chance to create unforgettable memories."

So when it snows, grab your family and your sleds. Don't forget the hot cocoa for breaks between runs!

3. Find Winter Treasures

Winter turns the outdoors into a snowy playground, perfect for a family treasure hunt. It's a fun way to explore nature and make memories together.

Here's how to set up your winter hunt:

1. Make a winter-themed list

Think pinecones, icicles, animal tracks, evergreens, and colorful berries. Add some sky-watching too – look for cool cloud shapes!

2. Set some ground rules

Keep it safe and eco-friendly:

• Stick to the trails
• Don't disturb nature
• Pick up litter (bring a small trash bag)

3. Bundle up

Layer up and pack some hot cocoa. You'll want to stay warm while you explore!

4. Capture the memories

Let the kids snap photos or sketch their finds. It's a great way to remember the adventure.

Want to kick it up a notch? Try these ideas:

• Mark spots with food coloring "X"s in the snow
• Hide small, weatherproof treats in toy containers
• Create a points system for different items

Here's a sample checklist to get you started:

Item	Points	Notes
Human footprint	1	Make your own in fresh snow
Animal track	3	Spot signs of wildlife
Ice puddle	2	Check out how it formed
Pinecone	2	Where did it come from?
Evergreen tree	1	Feel those needles!
Berries on a tree	3	Look, but don't touch
Puffed-up bird	5	How do they stay warm?
Cool cloud shape	4	What does it look like?
Nature sound	3	Listen for animals or wind

Tweak the list based on where you live and how old your kids are. Keep it simple for little ones, add trickier items for older kids.

A winter treasure hunt isn't just fun – it's a chance to learn. As Thimble and Twig puts it:

"A winter scavenger hunt is an activity that will surely build excitement for your kids. This will help them be aware of their surroundings and fuel their curiosity to discover more about mother nature."

So grab your coats, and get ready for some winter wonder!

4. Walk Through Holiday Lights

Want to turn your evening strolls into magical holiday adventures? Explore the festive decorations in your neighborhood. It's a simple way to bring your family together and create lasting memories.

Here's how to make your holiday light walks awesome:

1. Scout your route: Find out which local spots go all out with their decorations. Some neighborhoods really shine during the holidays.
2. Bundle up: It gets chilly after dark. Layer up with warm clothes, and don't forget your gloves and hat.
3. Pack smart: Bring a small backpack with:
   • Hot drinks (cocoa, anyone?)
   • Snacks
   • Camera or phone for pics
   • Portable charger
4. Make it fun: Try Christmas Light Display Bingo. Spot common decorations like inflatable Santas or reindeer. First to find them all wins!
5. Check out local hotspots: Some areas offer special experiences. Take Peacock Lane in Portland, Oregon. Travel Portland says:

"December evenings see a steady stream of bundled-up pedestrians (and a very slow-moving train of cars) making their way along Peacock Lane's four spectacularly decorated city blocks."

For places like Peacock Lane, ditch the car and walk. You'll see more that way. Lights are usually on from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM between December 15-31.

5. Visit Light Shows

Light shows turn regular places into winter wonderlands. They're a great way to celebrate the holidays outdoors with your family.

Here are some cool light shows to check out:

Illuminate SF Festival of Lights (San Francisco, CA)

• Runs November 9 to January 31
• 50 eco-friendly light art installations
• Free to visit
• Showcases artists in Mission Bay and SoMa

Garden of D'Lights (Walnut Creek, CA)

• Open November 24 to January 6
• Thousands of lights in a 2.5-acre garden
• Botanical sculptures become light displays

Glowfari at Oakland Zoo (Oakland, CA)

• Runs November 10 to January 28
• Mile-long holiday light journey
• Giant animal lanterns
• Gondola ride and Santa visits
• Costs $22 to $26 per person

Want to make your light show visit awesome? Here's how:

1. Check websites for tickets and dates
2. Dress warm - it's outside!
3. Bring snacks
4. Take lots of photos

For something different, try "Entwined" in Golden Gate Park. From December 1 to March 12, it turns Peacock Meadow into a light-up forest.

Many light shows are free or cheap, perfect for family fun on a budget. As you walk through these twinkling wonderlands, think about all the work that goes into making them so magical.

Light Show	Where	When	Cost	Cool Stuff
Illuminate SF Festival of Lights	San Francisco, CA	Nov 9 - Jan 31	Free	50 eco-friendly light art pieces
Garden of D'Lights	Walnut Creek, CA	Nov 24 - Jan 6	Not listed	2.5 acres of lit-up garden
Glowfari at Oakland Zoo	Oakland, CA	Nov 10 - Jan 28	$22-$26	Animal lanterns, gondola ride
Entwined	Golden Gate Park, SF	Dec 1 - Mar 12	Free	Enchanted forest vibes

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6. Make Nature Wreaths

Want a fun family project that combines outdoor exploration with holiday crafting? Try making nature wreaths! Here's how:

1. Go on a nature hunt

Head to your backyard, local park, or woods. Look for:

• Evergreen branches
• Colorful berries
• Pinecones
• Interesting twigs or bark
• Dried flowers or seed pods

Just take what you need. Don't mess up the local ecosystem.

2. Create your wreath base

You've got two options:

• Buy a wire wreath frame from a craft store
• DIY it by bending flexible twigs into a circle and tying with twine

3. Decorate your wreath

Use florist's wire or a hot glue gun to attach your finds. Start with evergreens, then add the fun stuff.

Item	How to Attach	Tips
Evergreens	Wrap with wire	Overlap for fullness
Pinecones	Glue or wire	Group in 3s or 5s
Berries	Wire or glue	Add color pops
Bark/twigs	Hot glue	Use for texture

4. Add some flair

Consider:

• A festive ribbon bow
• Cinnamon sticks for scent
• Small ornaments for sparkle

This isn't just crafting - it's memory-making. One family shared:

"We hit the woods behind our house for pine branches, berries, and tiny pine-cones. So easy, so fun, and totally free!"

Want your wreath to last? Sonoma County Master Gardeners suggest:

"Grab small cutters, wire bits, twine, ribbon, a glue gun, gloves, and a water bucket to clean materials."

This project teaches kids about nature's seasons while letting their creativity shine. Plus, you'll end up with a one-of-a-kind, eco-friendly decoration that screams "family adventure."

7. Create Ice Lights

Want to add some magic to your winter wonderland? Try making ice lights! It's a cool way to mix ice and light for a stunning holiday display.

Here's how to do it:

1. Get your stuff: You'll need balloons or plastic containers, water, food coloring (if you want), and tea lights or LED candles.
2. Make the ice: Fill balloons with water, leaving some room. Add food coloring if you like. Freeze them outside or in your freezer.
3. Set up the lights: Once frozen, peel off the balloon. Make a small hole for your light. Pop in a tea light or LED candle.

"Ice lanterns are beautiful, shimmering illuminated orbs that are easy to make and guaranteed to brighten every holiday season." - Marian Parsons, HGTV contributor

Want to get fancy? Try these ideas:

Idea	What It Does
Add nature	Freeze berries or evergreen bits in the ice
Use weird molds	Make different shapes with bundt pans or buckets
Light up your path	Put ice lights along your walkway

"These ice lanterns take about 5 minutes to prepare, maybe a day to freeze, and another 5 minutes to set up after they are frozen." - Debbie Chapman, DIY enthusiast

Playing it safe? Use LED lights instead of real candles. If you go for real candles, pick a calm night and a safe spot.

Pro tip: Colder weather means your ice lights last longer. On warmer days, bury them in snow or keep them in the shade.

Making ice lights isn't just about decorating. It's a fun family activity that adds wonder to your winter nights. Watching that soft glow through the ice? That's the stuff holiday memories are made of.

8. Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is a winter activity that screams "holiday season." It's a great way for families to make memories while enjoying the cold air. Here's why you should add ice skating to your family's holiday to-do list:

Fun for Everyone

Ice skating is for everyone, no matter how old you are or how good you are at it. You might glide like a pro or wobble like a baby giraffe - either way, you'll be laughing and having fun together.

Holiday Vibes

Most outdoor rinks during the holidays are decked out with lights, decorations, and festive music. It's like stepping into a real-life snow globe.

Won't Break the Bank

Ice skating can be pretty cheap for families. Check out these popular rinks:

Rink	Cost	What You Get
Peace Plaza Ice Rink, Grapevine	$20	1 hour, skates included
Stockyards Rodeo Rink, Fort Worth	$20-$25	1.5 hours, skates included
Galleria Dallas	$17	Entry and skates
Downtown Grand Prairie	Free	30 minutes, skates included

Tips for a Great Time on the Ice

1. Dress smart: Wear layers you can move in. Thin cotton or wool socks work best.
2. Get the right fit: Skates should be snug. Terry Green from Highland Ice Arena says, "Think ski boot, not sneaker."
3. Play it safe: Consider helmets for the kids. A bike helmet works fine.
4. Teach the basics: Patti Brinkley from Lynnwood Ice Center suggests, "Start teaching before you hit the ice." Show kids how to take small steps instead of walking.
5. Embrace the tumbles: Teach kids how to fall safely and get back up. It's all part of the fun!

9. Sing Holiday Songs

Want to spread some holiday cheer? Try caroling! It's a fun way to bring your family together and connect with your neighbors.

Here's how to make your caroling adventure a hit:

1. Pick your route: Choose streets where people are likely to be home and open to carolers.
2. Practice: Get your family together and run through 5-6 popular carols. "Jingle Bells" and "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" are always crowd-pleasers.
3. Dress up: Wear warm, festive clothes. Santa hats or reindeer antlers can add a fun touch.
4. Pack the essentials: Bring songbooks, flashlights, jingle bells, and some hot cocoa to keep you warm.
5. Include everyone: Got family members who aren't keen on singing? They can ring bells, hold flashlights, or hand out candy canes.

Want to take your caroling up a notch? Here are some pro tips:

Tip	What to Do
Timing	Go out between 6-8 PM when most people are home
Group size	Aim for 8-12 people for a full sound
Song choice	Sing 3-4 songs per house, ending with "We Wish You a Merry Christmas"
Snacks	Bring cookies or candy canes to share
Get neighbors involved	Ask around to create a bigger neighborhood choir

Remember, it's about spreading joy, not giving a perfect performance. As Cheri, a mom who organized a neighborhood caroling event, put it:

"I thought we'd just walk along the street singing. Instead, we rang doorbells like trick-or-treaters, and everyone was happy to see us. It was surprisingly fun. We're doing it again this year, right?"

Caroling can also be a way to give back. In some cities, like Detroit, people use caroling to raise money for kids' charities. Why not collect donations for a local cause while you sing? It's a great way to add more meaning to your holiday tradition.

10. Watch Winter Birds

Winter bird watching is a fun way to get your family outside and close to nature during the holidays. It's easy to start and doesn't need much gear. Plus, it gives you a new way to see winter landscapes.

Here's how to make winter bird watching a family tradition:

Set up a bird feeding station

Make a cozy spot for birds in your yard. Kristi Lane from Wild Birds Unlimited says:

"A full bird feeder is a reliable food source. In bad weather, feeders can really help birds survive."

Try these feeders:

Feeder Type	Best For	Attracts
Tube	Black oil sunflower, mixed seed	Chickadees, titmice, nuthatches
Hopper	Larger seeds	Cardinals, jays, grackles
Suet	Suet cakes	Woodpeckers, titmice, chickadees

Give birds water

Birds need fresh water, especially when it's freezing outside. A simple birdbath works great. Just clean it once a week.

Make a comfy watching spot

Set up a cozy area by a window with a good view of your feeders. Keep bird guides and binoculars handy.

Start a bird journal

Get kids to write down what birds they see and draw pictures. It's a great way to improve observation skills and make memories.

Join bird events

Take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count every February. It's a fun way to help with science and meet other bird fans.

Go beyond your yard

Check out local nature spots for different birds. Try these family-friendly places:

• Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve: Good trails and indoor viewing
• Schenley Park: Monthly bird watching walks
• The National Aviary: See birds up close indoors

Winter bird watching isn't just about seeing birds. It's about connecting with nature and each other. John Rowden from the National Audubon Society says:

"It's about two things: food availability and high-calorie nutrition."

So grab your family, set up a feeder, and start watching those winter birds!

Conclusion

Our journey through these 10 outdoor holiday family traditions shows that the magic of the season isn't just about indoor celebrations. By heading outside, families can create memories that stick and grow closer in fun, meaningful ways.

The secret to great family traditions? Keep them consistent and shared. As Lisa Cossey, LCSW, puts it:

"Traditions help create warm, positive memories that can be recalled fondly and draw family members back to one another year after year."

Want to make the most of these outdoor activities? Here's how:

Keep it simple. You don't need fancy plans or expensive gear. A stroll through holiday lights or building a snow family can be just as memorable as a big outing.

Make it regular. Try to get outside throughout the year, not just during the holidays. Kids will start looking forward to these experiences.

Be flexible. As your family grows, be ready to change things up. What toddlers love might not excite teenagers.

Focus on togetherness. The most important part of any tradition is the time spent together. Parent Cue nails it:

"The point is not where you go, but your sense of adventure when you get there."

Embrace the unexpected. Some of the best memories come from unplanned moments. Don't be afraid to be spontaneous and silly.

Here's a quick look at indoor vs outdoor holiday activities:

Indoor Activities	Outdoor Activities
Limited space	Fresh air and open spaces
Controlled environment	Exposure to nature
Often sedentary	Encourages physical activity
Can feel repetitive	Varied experiences
Limited to home	Explores community and nature