How to Make Winter Break Fun With Your Friends

Cozy Plans, Holiday Vibes & Memory-Making Ideas

Winter break is finally here—aka the best excuse to slow down, hang out with your favorite people, and create main-character-energy moments. Whether you're into chill nights, winter adventures, or anything that gives “soft festive glow,” here are fun ways to make your break unforgettable—with spots to add your own playlists, recipes, and activity links!

❄️ 1. Host a Holiday Movie Night (or Full-Day Marathon)

Turn your living room into a cozy cinema. Build the fluffiest blanket fort, grab snacks, and let everyone pick a movie.

• Make a holiday movie list

• Cozy winter snack recipes

• A shared winter-break playlist

Bonus idea: Vote on “coziest movie,” “funniest scene,” or “best holiday outfit.”

🎄 2. Do a Festive Photoshoot

Play photographer for a day! Grab matching PJ sets, thrift some fun props, or head outside if it’s snowy. Winter lighting = chef’s kiss.

• Create a mood board on pinterest

• Edit in Instagram or a free editing app

• Cute winter outfit ideas

Turn the pics into a mini “Winter Break Lookbook” for your group chat.

☕ 3. Make a Hot Cocoa Bar at Home

Cocoa + toppings + your besties = perfection. Set up marshmallows, candy canes, whipped cream, caramel drizzle—the works.
Have everyone bring one topping for a budget-friendly spread.

🎶 4. Build a Shared Playlist for the Whole Break

Create a Spotify or Apple Music collab playlist for car rides, getting-ready vibes, and everything in between.

Make it the official soundtrack of Winter Break 2024.

🎨 5. Have a DIY Craft Night

Even if you’re not “artsy,” craft nights are hilarious and low-key relaxing. Try:

• Decorating ornaments

• Making friendship bracelets

• Creating vision boards for the new year

• Gingerbread house competitions

⛸️ 6. Plan a Winter Adventure Day

Bundle up and do something outdoorsy—sledding, ice skating, hiking, or checking out holiday lights around your city.

• Local skating rinks

• Holiday light displays

• Free outdoor events in your area

• Come try on dresses for your next dance at XO

Don’t forget cute mittens and a thermos of cocoa.

🕯️ 7. Have a Chill Self-Care Day With Friends

Sometimes the best plans are slow plans. Put on comfy sweats, do face masks, listen to music, and talk about everything or nothing.

Self-care but make it friend-care.

🍪 8. Bake Something Delicious Together

Cookies, brownies, or a chaotic gingerbread village—you can’t go wrong.

Extra points if you deliver leftovers to neighbors or family.

🎁 9. Do a Silly Gift Swap

Skip the pressure of serious gifts and keep it fun! Try:

• $5 gifts

• Thrifted gifts

• Handmade gifts

• “Something cozy / something sparkly / something edible” themes

It’s all about laughs, not spending money.

✨ 10. Start a New Winter Tradition

Maybe it’s a yearly movie night, a friend photoshoot, a cookie bake-off, or an “ugly sweater” brunch. Traditions start small—and they stick because of the people, not the activity.

Enjoy the Break & Soak Up the Good Vibes

Winter break is the perfect time to reconnect, recharge, and make memories you’ll talk about all year. Whether you’re going out or staying in, the best moments usually come from simple plans, good friends, and a whole lot of laughter.