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free family fun

Free Winter Weekend Activities for Families to Do Together

January 13, 2025 by Kati Mora

With Christmas over, it’s possible that you and your family are looking for ways to maximize the time you have together now that break is over. If this sounds like you, here are a few of our favorite ways to spend time together this time of year without spending lots of money:

1. Sledding

Grab your sled or borrow one, but this can be a great way to spend the afternoon. Bundle up and find your local sledding hill and get ready for some fun. Most communities have a go-to freebie spot, so be sure to ask around before you head out.

2. Visit Your Local Library

If you’re looking for an indoor activity, we always enjoy trips to our local library. The library features a variety of books, magazines, puzzles, computer games, and more to explore. Check your library’s website to see if any family activities are taking place over break—many libraries host free events like storytime, craft sessions, or movie screenings throughout the year.

3. Go for a Winter Wonderland Scavenger Hunt

Head outdoors and create a scavenger hunt list of winter-themed items to find—think icicles, pinecones, animal tracks, or a red cardinal. This is a great way to keep everyone active while exploring your neighborhood or a nearby park. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of hot cocoa to warm up afterward!

4. Break Out a Board Game

Dust off those board games in the closet and host a family game day. Whether it’s a classic like Monopoly or a quick round of Uno, playing games together can spark lots of laughs and friendly competition.

5. Host a Movie Night

Transform your living room into a cozy theater with blankets, popcorn, and everyone’s favorite movies. You could even pick a theme for the night, like classic winter films or animated favorites.

6. Volunteer at a Local Non-Profit

Spend time giving back as a family by volunteering at a local non-profit organization. Soup kitchens, animal shelters, or food banks often welcome extra hands, especially during the winter months. It’s a wonderful way to bond while making a difference in your community.

7. Go Ice Skating at an Outdoor Rink

Many communities offer free or low-cost access to outdoor skating rinks. Bring your own skates if you have them, or check if there are affordable rentals available. It’s a fun way to enjoy the crisp winter air together.

8. Take a Winter Nature Walk

Bundle up and take a leisurely walk through a local park, nature trail, or nearby woods. Bring along binoculars for birdwatching or see how many different types of trees and plants you can spot in their winter state.

9. Have a Snowman or Snow Fort Building Contest

If there’s snow on the ground, challenge each other to build the most creative snowman or sturdy snow fort. Add props like hats, scarves, or old buttons to bring your creations to life.

10. Create Homemade Winter Crafts

Gather supplies from around the house (or your local dollar store) and spend an afternoon making winter-themed crafts. Try paper snowflakes, pinecone bird feeders, or DIY hot cocoa kits.

11. Organize a Winter-Themed Photo Challenge

Take turns snapping pictures of winter scenes like frosted windows, snow-covered branches, or playful family moments. Create a mini photo album or slideshow at the end of the day.

12. Bake Together as a Family

Spend time in the kitchen baking cookies, bread, or a fun winter-themed treat. Kids can help decorate baked goods, and everyone will enjoy the delicious rewards!

13. Visit a Local Museum or Community Center

Check out free admission days at local museums or see if your community center is hosting any winter-themed events. Many places offer family-friendly options that are engaging and educational.

15. Set Up an Indoor Obstacle Course

Use pillows, chairs, blankets, and other household items to create a fun obstacle course indoors. Time each family member to see who can complete it the fastest!

With these fun and budget-friendly ideas, you’re sure to make the most of your family time this winter! Which of these activities will you try first?

Filed Under: Duo Update, Family on Mission, Travel & Staycations Tagged With: family activities, free family fun, winter weekend activities

Free Family Fun Events in Mid-Michigan March 2019

March 8, 2019 by Kati Mora

Looking for some ways to welcome Spring? We’ve got you covered all March long with our list of FREE family fun events happening throughout Mid-Michigan.


Photo by Benjamin Manley on Unsplash

Calling all LEGO fans! Stop by your local Barnes & Noble for a special LEGO architecture build event on Saturday March 9th at 6pm! For those of you in mid-Michigan, Barnes & Noble is located in the Midland Mall.

It’s time for another Kids & Culture event, this time at Off-Broadway Performing Arts Studio! Stop by Saturday March 9th between 10 am – 12 noon for a fun and free family-friendly event.

Another great opportunity this month is a comedy magician show taking place at Plachta auditorium on Central Michigan University’s campus on Tuesday, March 12th at 7 pm. Trent James, the award-winning comedy magician, is sure to wow you, making this an evening of fun for everyone. Free to attend and open to the public.

Not sure if this show is right for you? The video below will give you a sneak peek into a Trent James show.

We’re told that March 12th is FREE pancake day at IHOP! Stop by and enjoy your free shortstack and, if you’re able, consider donating to help children battling critical illness while you’re there.

And if you love free food, you might want to mark down March 20th on your calendar. We’re told that Dairy Queen will be serving up free ice cream cones that day, but haven’t been able to officially confirm it. Check with your local Dairy Queen to see if they will be participating.

Stop by the Chippewa River District Library, Shepherd branch for Create, Make and Take Craft time on March 13th at 3:30pm. All materials will be provided – you just need to bring your creativity!

Grab your favorite board game and head on over to the Salvation Army in Alma on March 15th at 6pm for a free family game night! Movies will also be playing in the chapel.

Looking for an opportunity to introduce your family to the orchestra? Creative 360 in Midland will be hosting the Midland Community Orchestra Small Ensemble and invites everyone to come and listen March 15th at 7pm. More details can be found on the Great Lakes Bay Parents website.

Did you know that Michigan is one of the top maple syrup producers across the nation? In 2017 it was ranked as the 7th top producer of this sugary confection. On March 16th, your family can discover how maple syrup is made during Maple Syrup Day at the Chippewa Nature Center! The event is free for kids and members, but $5 for adults who aren’t members at this time.

Stop by the Chippewa River District Library, Veterans Memorial campus for a rescheduled family date night featuring Kim Darst from Husky Haven Sled Dogs and her incredible story of racing in the Iditarod! Attendees will get the opportunity to see her sled gear and interact with one of her dogs! Be sure to arrive early to this event taking place March 17th at 2pm. 

Take a break from technology and stop by the “Pop” in carnival taking place at Finch Fieldhouse on Central Michigan University’s campus March 22nd from 6 – 8 pm. CMU’s Recreation, Parks and Leisure services RPL 430 class is partnering with Angel Wings to host a family-fun night where kids and adults can play classic carnival games like ring toss and mini bowling. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged to help support the local charity.

Are there free family-fun events we missed? Share them in the comments or on our Facebook page.

Filed Under: Duo Update, Family on Mission, Travel & Staycations Tagged With: family activities, family friendly, family fun, free family events, free family fun, march 2019, mid-Michigan

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  • Free Winter Weekend Activities for Families to Do Together
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Disclaimer: We are not financial or investment advisors – just regular everyday people sharing tips we’ve learned through our own lived experiences. This information is provided for general educational and entertainment purposes and may not apply to your specific circumstances.

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