I think our second fall has officially ended, which means we are now about to enter the snowy threshold of an Indiana winter. While hibernating until warmer weather returns sounds awfully tempting, it is sadly not a realistic option. Winter-lovers probably have no trouble finding ways to enjoy the season, but the rest of us might need a bit of a bucket list to make the cold a little more bearable. Winter always seemed more fun as a child (at least for me, and probably others) because 1. Snow days, and 2. We had all the time in the world to sit around in blanket forts while watching Christmas movies. With this in mind, here is a bucket list to bring back a bit of a childhood-nostalgia that will make this a memorable, fun winter season.
Build a Snowman with a Friend
Maybe it’s just me, but I haven’t built a Snowman since I was about 9. This winter might be the one I’ll get over my hatred of wet socks and wet gloves and recruit a few friends for a little Snowman building contest… Or, just work together and not make it a competition…
Have a Hot Chocolate and Christmas Movie Night
Hot Chocolate is the essence of having a successful winter, but adding a couple of Christmas movies and a comfortable blanket and/or oversized onesie is just the marshmallow on top. This winter, reserve a cold, snowy night– when you don’t want to be leaving your house anyways– for a healthy Christmas-movie binge watching extravaganza. Here’s some movies we recommended last year: Christmas Movies Worth Re-Watching
Go Ice Skating
If you’re looking for a more fitness-orientated activity that also doubles as a winter activity, you might want to add a trip to Swonder’s to your bucket list. You can ice skate to your heart’s content, or until you have had your fill of falling on ice (me).
Go Caroling
You don’t have to be musically gifted to go caroling. That’s what I tell myself, at least. If singing to strangers and making their day a little brighter is up your alley, then gather your church group, family, or friends and sing away! Who knows, maybe your little group will realize it has a cappella talents and you’ll become the new Straight No Chaser.
Have a Family Game Night
Spending time with family is one of the main ideas surrounding the holiday season, so why not plan a family game night to get everyone’s competitive juices flowing? If you have a Christmas-themed game, then let me know because I have none. Otherwise, there’s Clue, Monopoly, Rummy, Catan, Code Words, and really any other multi-player game you can imagine to get your family together. It’s healthy to maintain a bit of sibling rivalry anyways. (Right?)
Drive Around to Look at Christmas Lights
There are some neighborhoods that just go all-out with their decorations and it looks fantastic. Many people are incredibly creative and it’s an absolute joy to drive past their place and admire their work. Make it part of your mission to go find the one you think is the best in the tri-state area.
Bake Christmas Cookies
Throw on some aprons and pull out those cookie-cutters, because one night this winter should be dedicated to baking and decorating Christmas Cookies. My favorite part about this activity is you get to eat it afterwards, so it’s very rewarding. If you find yourself with too many cookies (as if that’s a thing, ha!) you can box them up for sweet gifts for your boss or friends.
Go Skiing or Snow Boarding
This is the time of year that Paoli Peak thrives. Maybe you already have a season pass and have made several trips up, but for anyone who is interested in trying either skiing or snowboarding— this is the time of year.
Go Sledding
Sledding is great if you have a hill. My dad used to drag us around on a sled on his lawn mower; I think that might be called red neck sledding, but I don’t know. Either way is a blast though and it’s one extra thing to make the snowy weather fun.
Read Your Favorite Novel
Finding time to read is pretty much impossible with all the other life demands happening 24/7. If you’re not one who enjoys cold weather, then most likely you’ll be spending more time than usual inside anyways. Turn off the television and find a half an hour to set aside to reread one of your favorite novels. Better yet— find a new book and rediscover what you’ve always loved about reading.
Go to a Hockey Game
Support your local ice hockey team—Evansville Thunderbolts—this winter and spend an evening out at the Ford Center cheering them on. Bring your friends, family, or significant other and maybe you all will get hooked on hockey.
Try 3 Different Workout Classes
I hope it’s not just me, but my motivation to workout drops roughly about 97% during the winter. As a runner, I prefer doing my workouts outside, but unfortunately, it’s not my cup of tea to run around slipping on ice. That’s why I think trying a few different classes is beneficial this time of year. Maybe you’ll find a new hobby/workout that you love that will survive past the winter months… who knows? Most workout places offer the first workout for free, so you literally have nothing to lose by giving them a shot.
Build a Gingerbread House
I usually buy the prepackaged kit when I want to do this, but if you know how to make Gingerbread houses from scratch—the more power to you. This is one project that I definitely rather work with someone though, mostly because I get side-tracked eating the candy, but also because there’s more creativity flowing in which makes for some really unique and cool Gingerbread houses.
Visit a Light Show
There are so many great options in the area to see some spectacular light show. For instance, Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights in Garvin Park always puts on a good show, and Santa Claus Land of Lights in Santa Claus, Indiana is another must-see of the season.
Volunteer (See our last blog post)
While most of this list is, admittedly, focused on enjoying yourself and making time for friends and family this season, it’s important to remember that many people do not have the luxury of having a belly full of hot chocolate or the option of getting warm in front of a television. If there is any one item on your winter bucket list that will make you feel fulfilled and like you’ve had a successful season— this one is it. Evansville has many places you can give back this holiday season, and volunteering your time and energy to help these non-profits is the most priceless way you and your family can give back.
