Winter on a Budget: Cozy, Cheap and Fun Activities You’ll Love This Season. ST. PAUL, MN – My hubby Jack and I decided to face Minnesota winters head-on last year and enjoy the season without having to break the bank. We were both tired of all the usual hustle and bustle of spending money on pricey outings, so we set out to find ways to enjoy winter together that wouldn’t drain our savings.
One afternoon, we are bundling up, racing each other down a hill with our old sleds and again recalling winter days of childhoods. The best part was free, no cost to the bill. It was one of the most memorable winter days in my life.
If you are looking for ways to enjoy the cozy, magical feel of winter without shelling out for expensive activities, here are five budget-friendly winter fun ideas that will keep you warm and entertained all season long.
1. Sledding and Snow Play
Sledding is a very fun and almost free winter activity. Whether you’re racing down the nearest hill or just tossing snowballs with family and friends, there’s something nostalgic and exciting about sledding. Last year, Jack and I discovered a small hill in one of the local parks and spent hours playing outside with the fresh air and snow.
It’s the perfect way to shake off any winter blues and get a little exercise in the process. Afterward, we’d cozy up with blankets and sip hot cocoa in the warmth of our home, making the experience even better.
2. DIY Winter Movie Night
At times, there is no better way to enjoy a cold winter night than to stay indoors. Creating a DIY movie night at home is one of the cheapest ways to spend a chilly night. You don’t need to go to a theater to enjoy a great film! Grab a few blankets, pop some popcorn, and make a cozy corner on your couch.
Add some of your favorite winter classics, like Home Alone (my favorite) or The Polar Express, and you have the perfect winter night in. We often turn on the twinkling lights of our Christmas tree, even after the holidays, and set the mood for a magical, low-cost movie marathon.
3. Ice Skating at Local Rinks
Ice skating is another great, low-cost winter activity—especially if you live near a community rink. Many outdoor rinks offer low-cost entry fees, and some even allow you to skate for free! Jack and I like to take a stroll over to the local rink and glide around together.
Even if you’re not a pro, it’s fun to try something new, and there’s something incredibly cozy about being out in the crisp winter air, bundled up and skating hand-in-hand. Afterwards, we often warm up at a nearby coffee shop, enjoying a hot drink before heading home.
4. Winter Hiking or Snowshoeing
You do not need to hit the slopes to appreciate the beauty of the winter landscapes. Winter hiking or snowshoeing is an excellent way to explore nature if you live near parks or nature reserves. We discovered a few trails last year that are open throughout the year, and it became a weekend ritual to bundle up and hike through the snowy woods.
Nature is silent during the winter months; nothing compares to the feeling of walking through a field in your boots with crunching snow under them. The best part of all this is that often times, this activity can be free and requires nothing but good shoes (and borrowed snowshoes if you get enough snow!).
5. Hot Chocolate and Game Night with Friends
Nothing’s cozier than inviting a few friends over for a night of games, snacks, and, of course, hot chocolate. Instead of blowing money at some pricey bar or restaurant, host your own fun, low-key gathering. We love breaking out the classic board games, card games, or even puzzle challenges while sipping hot cocoa with whipped cream.
Jack and I always have a few packets of hot cocoa on hand, so whipping up a batch for guests is no problem. It’s a relaxed and affordable way to spend time with friends without ever leaving the house.
Start Creating Memories!
Winter does not have to be all about expensive getaways and pricey activities. There are lots of ways to welcome winter without worrying about the size of your wallet. Sledding, ice skating, or just staying at home to watch a movie, winter can be fun and cozy on a budget.
