The time has come, the drive to work is dark, and the drive home is dark. This time of year, it’s easy to feel like fun needs to move indoors, or that it might come with a big price tag. But that doesn’t have to be the case!
At Crossnore, we know that connection, laughter, and shared experiences matter most (and they don’t have to cost a thing). Whether you are a foster parent trying to find fun ways to connect on a budget or just someone looking to make the season special, here are 10 cozy and creative ways to have fun this fall and winter without emptying your wallet.
- Outdoor Fun: Create a Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course
- Yes, even in the chilly months! You may have seen our video from a few days ago here. We created a fall-themed course for some of the kiddos on our Winston campus. You, too, can grab some chalk and turn the sidewalk into a themed obstacle course. You could smash pumpkins, pick up candy, spin the soup, or catch snowflakes.
- Host a DIY Movie Night
- Though the sun is setting on our Big Backyard Movie Night series, you can still have a good movie night. Transform your own living room into a cozy movie theater. Pop some popcorn, grab blankets, and let everyone vote on a favorite movie. Budget Tip: Borrow movies for free from your local library! You can even set a theme, choose a movie, and create snacks that go along with it!
- Go on a Nature Walk Scavenger Hunt
- This one may call for a beanie and jacket! Take a walk with the fam through a nearby park or neighborhood and make a list of things to find. You could make a checklist to mark items off, or bring a bucket/bag to collect the items in! Some ideas include: pinecones, colorful leaves, and birds (though I don’t suggest collecting those).
- Try a Soup or Cocoa Swap with Friends!
- Call up all your friends and invite them over! Everyone can make a big batch of their favorite soup (or hot cocoa mix!) and trade containers. Everyone goes home with something warm and new to try, plus it helps foster connection.
- Have Craft Night
- Now, those who know me are a little surprised this is so far down on the list, but hey, crafting is not everyone’s thing. If it’s yours, grab whatever art supplies you already have (paper, markers, string, old magazines, paper bags) and make something seasonal. Try paper snowflakes, leaf garlands (collected from your nature walk), or handmade holiday cards. Crafting together isn’t just fun, it’s a great way for kids to express creativity and for families to connect.
- Check Out Free Local Events
- Libraries, parks, and community centers often host free seasonal activities – from story times and art classes to winter festivals and tree lightings. These events are a wonderful way to get out, meet others, and feel connected to your community. Check out calendars here: Winston-Salem, Hendersonville, Avery County.
- Bake Something New
- Why is there something so magical about the smell of baking on a cold day? Try apple muffins, homemade bread, or your favorite cookie recipe. We know it will make a mess and it’ll slow the whole process down, but let kids help with stirring, measuring, or decorating, they’ll love being part of the process. And if your kiddo is not the “in-the-kitchen” kind, there’s always cookie decorating!
- Game or Puzzle Night
- Pull out board games, cards, or puzzles and make a night of it. You can even make it a mini tournament with silly prizes (like picking the next movie for your DIY Movie Night). Laughter guaranteed! Budget Tip: Organize a Game Library swap with friends to trade and try new board games without buying them.
- Talk a “Lights Walk” (or Drive!)
- Put on your warmest coats, grab some cocoa to-go, and take a walk (or drive) to enjoy holiday lights around your neighborhood. Add some music for extra cheer. Though simple, still magical!
- Build a Legendary Blanket Fort
- Pillows, chairs, and blankets are all you need to create a cozy reading nook or movie hideout. Kids love it (and let’s be honest, adults do too)! It’s an easy, no-cost way to bring playfulness indoors. (Also, it’s very possible your “fort” turns into a castle that needs defending, but kids are kids, ya know?)
Final Thoughts
The colder months can sometimes feel long, but they’re also full of opportunities to slow down, connect, and make such sweet memories.
Whether it’s chalk on the sidewalk or soup shared with friends, the best moments often come from simple experiences.
From all of us at Crossnore, we hope these ideas bring joy, laughter, and maybe even a new tradition!
