Outdoor play is an essential aspect of childhood that promotes physical activity, social skills, and creativity. Whether it’s chilling winter or Christmas, children thrive when they can engage with nature and participate in fun games with friends and family. This article presents 20+ exciting outdoor games for kids to enjoy during Christmas and winter. Each game is designed to enhance outdoor fun while encouraging kids to be active and engaged.
Seasonal games not only make playtime enjoyable but also create opportunities for family bonding and memorable moments. From building snowmen in winter to hunting for scavengers, these activities allow children to explore their surroundings and develop essential life skills.
I. Christmas Yard Games
1. Snowball Toss
The Snowball Toss game is a fantastic way to combine the winter fun of snow with the excitement of target practice. Set up various targets in your yard, such as buckets, snowmen, or cones. Children take turns tossing soft snowballs at these targets, trying to knock them over or land them inside. This game encourages hand-eye coordination and adds a competitive element that kids will love.
To prepare for the game, gather soft snowballs (or use white foam balls for a mess-free option) and establish a designated throwing area. Make sure to set up the targets at different distances to challenge players of varying skill levels. You can even assign point values to each target based on difficulty to make the game more competitive.
For added fun, consider having themed prizes for the top scorers, such as holiday treats or small toys. This encourages kids to engage with the game and strive for their best performance while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
2. Christmas Scavenger Hunt
A Christmas Scavenger Hunt is a delightful way to keep kids entertained while they explore their surroundings. Create a list of Christmas-themed items for children to find in your yard or nearby park. These items can include ornaments, candy canes, Christmas lights, or even specific types of pinecones. As they search for these treasures, kids will be excited to discover hidden surprises.
To set up the scavenger hunt, make copies of the list for each child or team. Hide the items in creative locations around the designated area, ensuring that they are both visible and challenging to find. To make it more interesting, consider incorporating clues or riddles that lead to the items, adding an element of adventure to the hunt.
After the scavenger hunt, gather everyone to share what they found. This fosters social interaction and allows kids to compare their discoveries. You can also reward participants with small prizes or certificates for their efforts, making it a memorable experience that celebrates the holiday spirit.
3. Reindeer Relay Race
The Reindeer Relay Race is an exciting and active game that encourages teamwork and friendly competition. In this game, children are divided into teams and race to complete fun tasks while wearing reindeer antlers. Teams can compete in a variety of relay challenges, such as balancing a candy cane on their noses, hopping like reindeer, or carrying a gift while racing to the finish line.
To organize the relay, set up a designated racecourse in your yard, and ensure that you have enough space for teams to run safely. Provide each team with a set of reindeer antlers to wear during the race. You can also include various tasks that need to be completed at each checkpoint, which adds an element of excitement and unpredictability to the game.
Encourage team spirit by having each group create a team name or cheer before the race begins. After the relay, gather everyone to celebrate their participation and share snacks or hot cocoa. This game promotes physical activity while fostering camaraderie and joy during the holiday season.
4. Giant Snowman Bowling
Giant Snowman Bowling is a fun twist on a classic game that can be enjoyed by kids of all ages. Use snow or white plastic bottles to create bowling pins shaped like snowmen. Set them up in a triangular formation at one end of your yard, and have kids take turns rolling a ball to knock them down. This game helps develop coordination and balance while providing plenty of laughter.
To create your giant snowman bowling set, you can fill plastic bottles with water and paint them white, adding faces and scarves for decoration. If snow is available, build real snowmen as the bowling pins, adding a fun, interactive element to the game. Mark a bowling line to designate where players will roll the ball from, ensuring everyone has a fair chance.
To enhance the fun, consider introducing a point system for how many snowmen each player knocks down with their roll. This adds a competitive edge to the game, and you can reward the highest scorers with small prizes or certificates. Giant Snowman Bowling is a fantastic way to encourage outdoor play during the winter months.
5. Holiday-themed Sack Race
A Holiday-themed Sack Race is a classic outdoor game with a festive twist. Kids will love racing against each other while hopping in burlap sacks or pillowcases decorated with holiday patterns. This game promotes physical fitness, balance, and coordination as children leap toward the finish line, all while enjoying the holiday spirit.
To set up the sack race, create a clear starting line and finish line in your yard. Decorate the sacks with festive colors, stickers, or fabric paint to add a holiday flair. Make sure to explain the rules clearly, and encourage kids to help each other if they fall or stumble during the race.
After the race, gather everyone together for a mini celebration. Consider handing out small prizes or holiday-themed treats for all participants to ensure that everyone feels included and appreciated. This game is a great way to keep kids active and entertained during the holiday festivities.
6. Christmas Freeze Tag
Christmas Freeze Tag is a festive twist on the classic game of freeze tag. One child is designated as “It” and tries to tag others while they run and dodge. When tagged, players must freeze in place until a teammate can unfreeze them by crawling between their legs. To add a holiday theme, encourage kids to use festive phrases or holiday-themed moves while playing.
To organize the game, set boundaries within your yard where players can safely run and play. You can decorate the playing area with Christmas lights or ornaments to enhance the festive atmosphere. Make sure all players understand the rules, including how to unfreeze each other and the “It” person’s tagging strategy.
To increase engagement, consider implementing a countdown timer for each round, where players must avoid being tagged for a set time. This will add an exciting challenge and encourage teamwork as players work together to avoid being frozen. Christmas Freeze Tag is a fantastic way to get kids moving while enjoying the holiday season.
7. Pin the Nose on Rudolph
Pin the Nose on Rudolph is a fun holiday activity that combines the classic “Pin the Tail on the Donkey” with a festive twist. In this game, players are blindfolded and spun around before attempting to pin a red nose on a poster of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. It’s a great way to get everyone involved and laughing during your holiday gatherings.
To set up the game, create or print a large poster of Rudolph and prepare a red nose (made from paper or felt). Make sure to establish a clear starting point and distance from the poster, so players have a challenging but achievable goal. Blindfold each player before they take their turn, spinning them gently to add a sense of disorientation.
After each player takes their turn, gather everyone to see who got the closest to Rudolph’s nose. Consider offering small holiday-themed prizes for the winner to keep the competition light-hearted and fun. Pin the Nose on Rudolph is an entertaining game that encourages laughter and friendly competition among kids during the holiday festivities.
8. Snowman Decorating Contest
A Snowman Decorating Contest is a fantastic way for kids to showcase their creativity while enjoying the winter weather. Children can build and decorate their snowmen using various materials such as scarves, hats, carrots for noses, and buttons for eyes. This activity encourages imaginative play and teamwork, as kids can work together or compete to create the best snowman.
To organize the contest, set clear guidelines on what materials can be used and establish a time limit for decorating. You can provide accessories or encourage kids to bring their decorations from home. Once the snowmen are complete, have a judging session where each snowman is evaluated based on creativity, design, and overall appearance.
To make it even more exciting, consider inviting parents or other family members to participate as judges. Award prizes for different categories, such as “Most Creative” or “Tallest Snowman,” to ensure everyone feels recognized for their efforts. The Snowman Decorating Contest is not only a fun outdoor game but also a memorable way for kids to express their creativity during the winter season.
9. Christmas Charades
Christmas Charades is a festive twist on the traditional charades game that adds an element of holiday fun. In this game, players take turns acting out holiday-themed prompts without speaking, while their teammates try to guess what they are mimicking. This encourages creativity, teamwork, and plenty of laughter as kids channel their inner actors.
To prepare for the game, create a list of Christmas-themed prompts, such as decorating a tree, building a snowman, or baking cookies. Write each prompt on a slip of paper and place them in a bowl. Players will draw a slip and act out the prompt within a designated time limit, usually one minute, while their team guesses.
To enhance the game, consider setting up different rounds where players must act out prompts with varying levels of difficulty. You can also reward teams with points for correct guesses, adding a competitive edge to the fun. Christmas Charades is a delightful way for kids to engage with the holiday spirit while being active and silly outdoors.
10. Christmas Balloon Pop
Christmas Balloon Pop is an exciting game that combines physical activity with surprise. Fill balloons with small prizes, confetti, or candy, and hang them in your yard. Kids take turns popping the balloons using a festive stick or their hands, revealing the surprises inside. This game encourages excitement and anticipation, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
To prepare for the game, inflate and decorate the balloons with holiday-themed colors or patterns. Secure them to a fence or tree branches, ensuring they are at a safe height for kids to reach. You can create different types of balloons, such as some filled with small toys or holiday treats, and others with just confetti for added variety.
As kids take their turns popping the balloons, gather everyone to celebrate the surprises they discover. This can be a fun way to reward participants and ensure everyone has something to enjoy. Christmas Balloon Pop is a fun and festive outdoor game that adds excitement to your holiday celebrations.
II. Winter Yard Games
11. Ice Treasure Hunt
An Ice Treasure Hunt is a thrilling winter game that combines exploration with a bit of mystery. Freeze small toys or treats inside blocks of ice and hide them around your yard. Children can use tools like shovels or buckets to dig through the snow and uncover their hidden treasures. This activity promotes problem-solving skills and physical activity while providing an element of surprise.
To set up the Ice Treasure Hunt, prepare your frozen treasures a day or two in advance. Fill containers with water, placing small toys or treats inside before freezing them overnight. Once frozen, strategically hide the blocks of ice around your yard, ensuring they are partially buried or covered with snow to increase the challenge.
As kids embark on their treasure hunt, encourage them to work together to unearth the frozen surprises. This collaborative effort fosters teamwork and excitement as they discover what’s hidden within the ice. The Ice Treasure Hunt is a unique winter activity that keeps kids engaged while exploring their surroundings.
12. Snow Maze
Building a Snow Maze is an exciting outdoor game that encourages creativity and physical activity. Using shovels or just their hands, children can create winding paths in the snow to form a maze. Once completed, kids can take turns navigating the maze, timing each other to see who can complete it the fastest. This game combines outdoor fun with problem-solving skills, making it a fantastic winter activity.
To create the snow maze, choose a flat area of snow and start shaping the paths. You can make the maze as simple or complex as desired, depending on the age and skill level of the participants. Adding obstacles like snow hills or barriers will make it even more challenging and entertaining.
As kids race through the maze, encourage them to cheer each other on and time their runs for added competition. You can even offer small prizes for the fastest finishers. The Snow Maze is a fun and engaging way for children to enjoy the winter weather while staying active.
13. Winter Obstacle Course
A Winter Obstacle Course is a dynamic way to get kids moving outdoors during the colder months. Set up a series of challenges using snow, hula hoops, cones, and other winter-themed obstacles. Children can jump, crawl, and navigate their way through the course, promoting physical fitness and coordination.
To organize the obstacle course, create different stations where kids must complete specific tasks. For example, they can jump over snow piles, crawl under ropes, or balance on a snow-covered log. Ensure that the challenges are age-appropriate and allow for variations based on skill level.
Consider timing each participant as they navigate the course to encourage friendly competition. After the race, gather everyone to share their experiences and celebrate their achievements. A Winter Obstacle Course is an exciting way to keep kids engaged and active during the chilly months.
14. Hot Cocoa Race
The Hot Cocoa Race is a fun and delicious winter game that combines outdoor activity with a cozy treat. In this game, kids must carry cups of hot cocoa (or a safe alternative) across a designated area without spilling. This activity promotes balance and coordination while providing a festive atmosphere.
To set up the race, fill cups with hot cocoa and place them on a table at the starting line. Children will race to a designated endpoint and back while carefully carrying their cups. To increase the challenge, consider adding obstacles they must navigate around, such as cones or snow piles.
At the end of the race, everyone can enjoy their hot cocoa together. Consider adding fun toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, or candy canes to enhance the experience. The Hot Cocoa Race is a delightful way to combine winter play with a warm treat, making it a memorable outdoor game for kids.
15. Winter Capture the Flag
Winter Capture the Flag is an exhilarating outdoor game that adds a seasonal twist to the classic favorite. Divide kids into two teams and assign each team a flag (or a brightly colored item) to hide in their territory. The objective is to capture the opposing team’s flag while protecting your own, creating excitement and teamwork.
To prepare for the game, establish clear boundaries and safe zones within your yard. You can use snow banks or trees to create natural barriers. Each team should designate a hiding spot for their flag while strategizing how to defend it against opponents.
As the game unfolds, kids will work together to create strategies and coordinate their movements. This not only promotes physical activity but also encourages critical thinking and communication. Winter Capture the Flag is a fantastic way to keep kids engaged and active during the colder months while fostering teamwork and fun.
16. Snow Fort Building Contest
A Snow Fort Building Contest is an excellent way for kids to engage their creativity while enjoying the winter weather. Children can work individually or in teams to build the most impressive snow fort using their shovels, buckets, and any decorative elements they can find, such as sticks or pinecones.
To organize the contest, set a time limit for the building phase and establish judging criteria, such as creativity, design, and size. You can encourage kids to collaborate and share ideas, fostering teamwork and communication skills. Be sure to provide ample space for each team to create their fort.
Once the time is up, gather everyone together for a judging session. You can have designated judges or allow everyone to vote on their favorites in various categories. The Snow Fort Building Contest is not only a fun outdoor game but also a way for kids to express their creativity and work together during the winter season.
17. Snowball Dodgeball
Snowball Dodgeball is a thrilling winter twist on the classic game of dodgeball. Using soft snowballs or foam balls, kids can play in teams while trying to hit opponents and avoid being hit themselves. This game promotes physical activity and agility while adding an element of fun to winter playtime.
To set up the game, establish boundaries and designate a “safe zone” where players can rest if they need a break. Make sure that all players understand the rules, including what constitutes a hit and how players can be eliminated. Encourage teamwork and strategy as kids develop their game plan to outmaneuver the opposing team.
As players engage in the game, remind them to stay safe and respectful, encouraging friendly competition. You can rotate teams or introduce different game variations to keep everyone engaged. Snowball Dodgeball is a fantastic way for kids to enjoy the winter weather while staying active and having a blast.
18. Snow Paint Art
Snow Paint Art is a creative outdoor activity that allows kids to express themselves through art while enjoying the winter landscape. Using spray bottles filled with colored water, children can create beautiful designs on the snow. This activity promotes creativity and imagination while engaging kids in outdoor play.
To set up the activity, prepare spray bottles with a mixture of water and food coloring. Choose a flat area of snow for the kids to work on, and provide them with guidance on creating their artwork. Encourage them to experiment with different colors and designs, fostering their artistic skills.
After the artwork is completed, gather everyone to admire each other’s creations. You can even take photos to capture their artistic efforts and share them with family and friends. Snow Paint Art is a unique way for kids to blend creativity with outdoor fun during the winter months.
19. Winter Tic-Tac-Toe
Winter Tic-Tac-Toe is a fun and simple outdoor game that combines the classic game of tic-tac-toe with a seasonal twist. Use snow or cardboard squares to create a large tic-tac-toe grid on the ground, and allow kids to use snowballs or colored discs as their game pieces. This activity promotes strategic thinking and teamwork while encouraging kids to enjoy the winter weather.
To set up the game, mark a large grid in the snow or use pieces of cardboard to create the playing surface. Each child can choose their game piece, and they take turns placing their markers in an attempt to get three in a row. Ensure that everyone understands the rules and takes turns fairly.
After the game, encourage kids to switch up the teams or change their game pieces for additional rounds. You can even keep score to see who wins the most games. Winter Tic-Tac-Toe is a great way for kids to engage in outdoor play while practicing their strategic skills in a fun setting.
20. Snowball Target Practice
Snowball Target Practice is a fantastic way for kids to improve their aim and have fun in the snow. Set up various targets around your yard, such as buckets, cones, or snowmen, and challenge kids to throw snowballs at them. This activity promotes physical coordination and precision while adding an element of friendly competition.
To organize the game, create different distances for targets to increase the challenge. You can assign point values based on difficulty, encouraging kids to strategize their throws. Consider using colorful paint or chalk to mark target areas, making the game visually appealing and engaging.
As kids take turns aiming for the targets, celebrate their achievements and encourage everyone to participate. You can even keep score and reward the most accurate throwers with fun prizes. Snowball Target Practice is an enjoyable way to combine skill development with outdoor play during the winter season.
Wrap Up
Incorporating outdoor games during the Christmas season provides kids with endless opportunities for fun and physical activity. From festive relay races to creative snow art, these games allow children to embrace the joy of winter while fostering teamwork and creativity. These activities not only create lasting memories but also promote a healthy lifestyle, encouraging kids to enjoy the beauty of the season while staying active. So gather your friends and family, head outdoors, and make the most of this magical time of year with these engaging games!