It’s that time of year where the temperature drops and snow starts to fall. All we want to do is stay inside, curl up with fuzzy blankets, and binge Netflix in bed. But changing things up a bit can be good for the soul, we’re here to help.

Winter is always full of surprises and fun experiences, so why not get out of the house and have fun on a date or with friends. Most of these things cost little to no money, are fun, and help winter lovers get out of the house for a few hours.  

Here are our top 15 things to do over the break with friends, partner, or family:

1. Go drive through the Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park

Enjoy the sights of beautiful Christmas lights from the warmth of the car.

2. Go to the National Zoo Lights in DC 

The Zoo Lights are so pretty! Head downtown during the day to see the animals, then stay and wait until dark for the lights to come up.

3. Go ice skating at the Rockville Town Center

Ice skating is fun, even if it leads to falling. The joy of laughing and skating with friends is a wonderful experience this holiday season!

4. Go to or host a Holiday and/or New Years Eve party

Parties are fun all year-round, but holiday parties seem to be ten times better. Themed parties are double the fun!

5. Visit the Capitol and National Christmas Trees in DC

The decorations are so beautiful and being in DC means there’s an excuse to shop!

6. Have a movie night with friends

Whether meeting at someone’s house or gathering at the theater, movies are a great escape from the holiday stress.

7. Go sledding

If it ever actually snows, sledding is an obvious choice. If sledding isn’t possible, there’s always snow tubing places.

8. Bake cookies or other festive treats

This is an absolute must on Christmas Eve! Santa gets to stock up on delicious cookies. How else would he stay awake while he’s traveling the world?

9. Make hot cocoa

Don’t forget the marshmallows! If hot chocolate isn’t good enough, opt for some tea, cider, or eggnog instead. There’s plenty of warm winter drinks to choose from!

10. Have a bonfire

Rent a space at Little Bennett Campground and gather some friends for stories and s’mores!

11. Do a gift exchange with friends

Secret Santa is almost always a winner among friend groups, just buy presents and experience the joy of secretly receiving gifts!

12. Decorate the house for Christmas, Hanukkah, NYE, etc.

Decorations are always pretty and there are so many different kinds of decorations. Wreaths, trees, centerpieces, lights, mistletoe, etc. We could decorate for days!

13. Have an extreme snowball fight

Snowball fights are great for so many reasons. That one cousin everyone hates, you know the one, hit them in the face with a snowball! Also, it’s great exercise and a great way to get out of the house without really going anywhere.

14. Build a gingerbread house

See who can build the best gingerbread house. Challenge friends or siblings to a competition. Plus, getting to eat the creation afterward is the best!

15. Go on a nighttime car ride and see all the decorated houses around town

Some people go all out when it comes to decorating houses! Hop in the car with friends and blankets to enjoy the holiday sights!

The holiday season is a time for family and happiness, so enjoy some quality time with loved ones. With all these to do, it will definitely be a winter break to remember.