31 AMAZING Winter Hygge Ideas & Activities

31 Amazing Winter Hygge Ideas and Activities will set you on the right path to embracing the cozy side of living. There’s something so magical about the final season of the year.

If you’re looking for more ideas on how to add hygge to your life, How to Hygge, 31 of the Best Cozy Ideas and Hygge Home Decor Ideas will help you on your journey.

31 Winter Hygge Ideas and Traditions - Mittens holding a mini cabin
31 Winter Hygge Ideas and Traditions

Winter is the time when we’re finally able to slow down and give ourselves a rest and renew our spirit.

Hygge is a term used by the Danish, who have been called the happiest people on earth.

Itโ€™s a way of life that celebrates living in the moment, finding beauty in simplicity, creating a warm atmosphere, eating good food, and nurturing yourself and others with coziness.

I didn’t create this list to add more tension to your life by giving you more to do. You don’t have to add all the ideas to your schedule. Pick the activities that speak to your soul.

“It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it.”

John Burroughs

Creating a Cozy Life Group

Since you found this article on creating a hygge winter,  Iโ€™m guessing you like all things cozy living. I created a Facebook group called Creating a Cozy Life with over 172,000 like-minded souls.

Itโ€™s a group where we share recipes, pictures of things that leave you in awe, and ideas on how to make your life just a little bit more snug. Join here to be part of the virtual cozy cabin.

Here are 31 Winter Hygge Ideas to Nurture Yourself:

1. Bring Nature Inside

Winter Hygge - Bring nature indoors with plants - Pink Poinsettia
Cozy Winter Plants

Since you’ll be spending so much more time indoors in the cold months, you’ll want to make sure you surround yourself with living plants.

Small potted living Christmas trees, poinsettias, and forcing paperwhites to bloom are just some of the ideas of including nature in your home.

I have several rosemary bushes that are shaped like Christmas trees dotted throughout my rooms. The scent of rosemary wafts throughout my house and I often dry rosemary sprigs to throw in the fireplace.

A Christmas cactus is also a beautiful plant to have in your cottage. The dark pink tubular flowers add a pop of color in my living room. They are also pretty easy to care for, even if you don’t have a green thumb.

2. Hills to Conquer

Winter Hygge Activity - Sledding - Two boys on a Sled
Sledding in the Winter

When was the last time you went sledding? It’s time to find the best hill and have some good old-fashioned fun again.

Make sure you layer your clothes and have a waterproof shell so you can make the most of your day.  Sledding becomes a lot less fun when you’re cold and wet.

You can also bring also some hot beverages in a thermos and snacks for when you want to take a break.

Don’t forget to take a photos of your day to share with your friends and family.

3. Art Critic

Hygge Winter Outing - Art Gallery
Winter Hygge Visiting Art Galleries


Winter is the perfect time to explore local art galleries and find the art pieces that stir your soul.

You can go to museums, galleries and even go to a school art exhibit.

I took an art class in college and one of the assignments was to go to a museum and study the paintings.  We had to stand in front of a variety of art pieces and write down what we felt about each piece. We also had to describe what we thought the artist was trying to say through his or her work.

When the teacher read the descriptions we each wrote, it was amazing to hear what each student got out of each painting. I’ve never looked at paintings the same way!

In addition to paintings, there are sculptures, photographs, pottery, stained glass, drawings, tapestries, and printmaking.

4. Seasonal Flavors

Winter Hygge Idea - Savoring Seasonal Flavors - Hot Cocoa, cookies, and donuts
Winter Hygge Seasonal Flavors

Make sure you enjoy a sampling of the flavors of the season.

Winter is the time of year we use our ovens a lot, and the intoxicating smells of a buttery roasting roast, chicken and dumplings, and chili cooking on the stovetop makes anyone’s mouth water.

Fruits that are in season in winter are: grapefruit, oranges, pears, pomegranates, bananas, cranberries, pineapples, persimmons, lemons, limes, kiwifruit, avocados, and apples are just some of the best at this time year.

Vegetables that are in season in winter are: beets, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, celery, collard greens, kale, leeks, onions, parsnips, potatoes, pumpkin, rutabagas, sweet potatoes, yam, Swiss chard, turnips, and winter squash.

Other tastes of winter are gingerbread, peppermint, buttery sauces, comfort foods like chicken and dumplings, and even fermented foods are just some options to tantalizing your tastebuds.

Winter is also the time of year where we use the pickled vegetables and preserves we canned from the summer harvest.

5. Fireplace Picnic

Hygge Winter Home - White Fireplace with Chopped Wood
Winter Hygge Fireplace picnic

Your fireplace gets its most use during the winter. What are some ideas on taking advantage of this cozy time of year and using your fireplace to it’s full advantage?

Instead of having a picnic romantic outside, spread a blanket in front of a roaring fire in your living room.

Have a picnic basket loaded full of finger foods and maybe even a poetry book.

A bottle of wine and a pair of wine glasses ready should be nearby to toast to your future with your love.

Roast marshmallows, drink hot apple cider out of a thermos, and even learning how to cook in your fireplace are just some of the ideas for winter fare.

How about having a movie marathon watching movies that take place in a snowy environment in front of your roaring fire?

Your children can build a blanket fort and pretend they are outside in a forest with only a fire to keep them warm.  Read adventure books and make crafts that the kids will love.

You could also invite your friends over for a cozy game night in front of the fire.  Make a charcuterie board as an easy way to feed the group.

6. Love Thy Neighbors

Hygge in Winter with Bird Watching - Bird on a Bird Feeder in Snow
Winter Hygge Feeding Wildlife

Winter can be hard for everyone, including your feathered friends. Pick a tree that you can easily see from one of your windows and set up feeders for the birds.

You can add a heated water bowl and take a seat by the window and enjoy the show.

Heart-shaped bird seed ornaments is a fun activity to make with children.

7. Decorate the Front Porch

Decorating the Front Porch for Winter - Twig deer / Sleds / Wreath / Garland
Winter Decor for Front Porch

Make sure your home is a place where you feel good the minute you enter the front door by decorating the front porch with seasonal decor.

After Christmas, give your front entrance a welcoming winter feel with old sleds, rustic deer, and garland with white lights.

8. Home Spa

Romantic Winter Home - Bathroom Decorated for the Winter Season
Winter Hygge Bathroom

Turn your bathroom into a home spa. It’s time to splurge in this department because you want to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

Thick fluffy towels, relaxing music, and a bathtub pillow are just some of the things you might include in your room of tranquility. The idea of sipping hot chocolate in a bubble bath sounds cozy enough to chase away the winter blues.

You can find more ideas on how to transform your bathroom into a winter hygge haven here.

9. Childhood Treats

Winter Hygge Favorite Childhood Meals - Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe
Winter Hygge Favorite Childhood Meals

It’s time to bring back a few treasured childhood memories. What was the food items you loved when you were a child?

Make yourself a dinner that reminds you of when you felt especially cared for when you were young. Some examples of this is a grilled cheese sandwich and tomato soup or mac and cheese. Savor every bite.

10. Host a Bonfire

Hygge Winter Bonfire in the Snow
Hygge Winter Bonfire

Even though winter brings a chill, you want to create special memories bundling up with oversized sweaters and enjoying this time with your friends.

A bonfire party doesn’t have to be a lot of work if you make it a potluck. Soups served in mugs and hot cocoa or hot toddy make simple gathering ideas to serve.

“Our lives are not the days that have passed, but the days we will remember forever.”

Meik Wiking

11. Embrace Flannel & Plaid

Hygge in the Winter - Plaid Blanket Around Dog
Winter Hygge – Plaid clothing and blankets

Who doesn’t just love the feel of flannel? Add a buffalo plaid design, and you have perfection.

Buy yourself plaid flannel sheets or wear your favorite plaid shirt. Now is the season to show off your casual side.

I love the idea of taking a photo of your entire family all decked out in plaid.

12. Gingerbread House

Hygge Winter Ideas - Gingerbread House
Winter Hygge – Gingerbread house

Bake your own homemade gingerbread house and make it an annual tradition.

Take pictures of each year’s creation and see if you can top yourself.

You could also find out if anywhere in your area has an annual gingerbread house display competition. Seattle has a large gingerbread competition that you can tour for free.

13. Master Plan

Hygge Winter Journaling
Winter Hygge – Journaling our dreams

Schedule a day or two for just you. Light a fire, play beautiful music and write out what your dream life looks like in a new journal.

Take the time for yourself to think about what you want. Close your eyes and envision yourself living the life of your dreams. Where do you live? How do you make a living? Who are you surrounded by?

Create the steps that will take you in the direction of the life you authored.

14. Snow Photography

31 Hygge Winter Ideas - Snow Photography
Winter Hygge – Snow globe

Take your camera and get out there and take some amazing pictures.

Whether you go on a solo journey, or you take your family or friends – there are so many fun things to record during this time of year.

Close-ups of snowflakes, snow angels, neighborhood snowmen, and holiday decorations are just some of the ideas to explore. Even the shop windows are a feast for the eyes. You can post your photos on social media for the world to enjoy as well.

15. Snowshoe at Midnight

31 Winter Hygge Ideas - Snowshoe at Midnight  - Woman with Vintage Snowshoe
Winter Hygge – Snowshoe adventures

Grab a friend and head outdoors for a midnight snowshoe for a different perspective.

Make sure you plan a night under the full moon and pack some warm drinks and snacks for the trip.

16. Fondue Meal

Hygge Winter Cheese Fondue Night
Winter Hygge – Cheese fondue

Break out the fondue pot that is gathering dust in the back of your cupboard and start using it once again.

You can try my favorite cheese fondue recipe and chocolate fondue recipe to get you started.

Once a week try a different recipe and rotate the course you use it for – appetizer, main meal or dessert.

17. Bookathon

Hygge in the Winter with Book Reading - Book Open with Fairy Lights
Winter Hygge – Reading a Good Book

Winter is the perfect time to catch up on all that reading that you let slide because of your busy life. A great book can be a good companion on long nights.

Keep a stack of those books on your bedside table to dive into on cold winter evenings.

I put together a list of some cozy books to read in all different genres in case you need inspiration.

18. Winter Carnival

Hygge Winter Carnival - Snowman Ice Sculpture
Hygee Winter Carnival

There are some amazing winter carnivals going on all over the world, and it’s time for you see what all the fuss is about. St. Paul, MN has a Winter Carnival that features a Moonglow Parade, Ice Palace, Snow Sculpting Contest, Giant Snow Slide and Barstool Ski Race.

The Quebec Winter Carnival also has some fun activities like the Canoe Race, Charlesbourg Night Parade, Bonhomme’s Ice Palace, Masquerade Ball and they also have a Snow Sculpture Contest. You can find information about it here.

19. That’s Show Business

Winter Hygge Ballet - Photo of the Bottom Half of a Ballerina with a Black Tutu and Pink Ballerina Shoes
Winter Hygge Ballet

How does seeing one major show a year during the winter season sound? It’s the perfect season to experience the beauty of indoor events.

Whether you prefer a symphony, play, dance or you want to see a singer coming to your area, be sure to treat yourself to at least one night out on the town.

20. High Tea

Hygge Winter High Tea - Teapot and Desserts
Winter Hygge Afternoon tea

Look for somewhere in your area to enjoy an afternoon tea and invite that special friend along that has been there for you throughout the year.

I can’t get enough of those yummy crustless tea sandwiches, and I’m sure neither can you! The cold weather is the perfect time to have a cup of tea and spend time with friends and family members.

21. Figure Eight

Winter Hygge Activities - Ice Skating
Winter Hygge – Ice Skating

When was the last time you went ice skating?

Ice skating is a classic winter activity not to be missed. Make it a party by inviting your friends and family.

It’s not only great exercise, but it produces warm memories as well.

22. The Best Dish

Cozy Winter Hygge Ideas - Cozy Comfort Food - Casserole
Winter Hygge – Favorite casserole

Spend the winter testing different recipes for the same food item. For instance, if you’re looking for an amazing chili recipe – try a different recipe once a week until you hit upon “the best” one.

If you’re looking for an amazing meatloaf recipe, look no further than this Most Delicious Meatloaf Recipe Ever. Yep, it’s that good.

23. Pajama Day

Winter Hygge Idea - Pajamas
Winter Hygge – Pajama day

Pick a day on the calendar and make it your annual pajama day.

On this day you will not do any chores, go anywhere, answer emails or text messages.

It is your day to relax and do whatever you want to do. Have pizza delivered so you don’t even have to turn on the stove.

Watch back-to-back black and white movies, look through old photographs, or simply catch up on some reading.

Once you start this tradition, it will be a date you will look forward to all year.

24. Cozy Cocktails

Cozy Cocktails for Winter - Seasonal Pear Mulled Wine
Winter cocktails

It’s time to check out those famous bars in your area and splurge on a warm and cozy cocktail. This is a fun activity to do during the cold winter months.

Find out what bar has the best atmosphere and order one of their seasonal hot cocktails. Then go home and see if you can recreate it.

25. Catch Snowflakes on Your Tongue

Winter Hygge Catching Snowflakes with Your Tongue - White Dog in the Snow with Tongue Hanging Out
Winter Hygge – Catching snowflakes with your tongue

Catching snowflakes on your tongue is a magical part of winter. Go on a long walk during a snowfall and capture the fun by taking photos of friends, family, and even your dog catching snowflakes. It’s a great way to spend time with your loved ones.

26. Daily Treasures

Hygge Winter Natural Elements - Pinecones
Natural elements – Forest Treasures

At the start of winter, buy a large glass jar and fill it up with the natural elements you find on your daily walk.

Only the best will do, so look for that perfect acorn, the right shaped rock, or a sprig of holly. Don’t let the chilly air keep you indoors. Using natural materials in your home will add a cozy vibe to your overall decor.

27. Cozy Socks

Winter Hygge Ideas - Cozy Sock Collection - Woman's legs and feet with White Socks and a Mug of Tea
Winter Hygge Ideas – Cozy Sock Collection

As the temperatures drop and days grow shorter, there’s something incredibly comforting about collecting cozy socks.

Each pair of socks tells a unique story, whether it’s a gift from a loved one, a souvenir from a memorable winter vacation, or simply a charming find that caught your eye. There are so many different styles and colors to pick from.

Finding the perfect socks should be a never-ending fun quest.

28. Cooking Class

Hygge Winter Ideas - Cooking Class - Baked Salmon on a Rustic Cutting Board
Winter Hygge – Cooking classes

Take a look for some local cooking classes and find one that will appeal to your inner chef.

Whether you want to learn to make a better pie, make homemade pasta, or even try your hand at your favorite ethnic cuisine – it’s always more fun to do it with other people. It’s the perfect way to spend quality time with friends.

29. Game Night

Winter Hygge Idea Game Night - Scrabble Board Game
Winter Hygge – Board Games

Start a game night with your closest friends and make it a potluck. Ask your friends to bring finger foods for your gathering. Finger foods make it easier to play games and is an easy clean-up.

Creating a game night charcuterie board would be a fun idea. You could match the board items to the games you’ll be playing.

Bite-sized desserts like brownies and lemon bars are also perfect choices.

30. Dream Garden

Winter Hygge - Planning a Dream garden - Book with Pots of Plants
Winter Hygge – Planning a Dream garden

When you can’t take one more day of the bad weather, make that the day you plan your spring garden.

Draw out the changes you would like to make. Look online for the type of plants, flowers, and trees you would like to have.

Is there a garden theme you would like to create? Choosing a theme is a great way to give your garden character and direction. Thinking of spring is the perfect way to spend the cold nights.

Here are some garden theme ideas I’ve written about:

31. Starry Skies

Hygge Winter Idea - Stargazing
Winter Hygge Stargazing

Did you know that winter is the best time to stargaze? It’s because in winter, the sky is most clear.  The cold air holds less moisture during the dark winter months.

Less moisture in the air during the colder months makes it the perfect time for seeing stars, planets, and meteor showers because they appear brighter.

The annual Quadrantids meteor shower peaks January 2-3. It’s during this time you can see up to 30 meteors per hour.

Grab a soft blanket, hot beverage, and chair to look up into the sky.

A song playlist that features stars in the songs can set the stage for a beautiful night.

Some other things to bring on your stargazing adventure:

  • Waterproof boots
  • Layered clothing
  • Heat pads
  • Gloves
  • Warm Hat
  • Coat
  • Thermos full of your favorite hot drinks

See if you can find all the constellations. Stargazing is magical, especially during winter.

Winter Hygge – Stargazing Tips

We’ve reached the end of 31 Winter Hygge Ideas to Nurture Yourself. Let me know in the comments below if you tried any of the ideas.

Be sure to join the Creating a Cozy Life Group. You’re not going to believe how amazing it is!

I created a Winter Hygge Ideas pin for you below for you to add to your hygge Pinterest board.

You can follow me here on PINTEREST. If you do any of these ideas and take a photo, be sure to tag me here on INSTAGRAM.

The Little Book of Hygge: Danish Secrets to Happy Living

Thanks for stopping by! I’m so happy you found us.

Related Posts:

Seasonal Hygge Blog Posts

Other Hygge Blog Posts 

31 Winter Hygge Ideas - If you're looking for ideas to create a magical winter, these ideas are perfect to create a cozy life. / Winter Ideas / Winter Activities / Things to do in Winter / Hygge Lifestyle / Cozy Lifestyle / Cozy Living / Fun Things to Do / Winter Aesthetic /
31 Winter Hygge Ideas and Activities

 

 

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20 Comments

  1. Love these ideas. We do fireside dinners and I love it. Game nights are fun too. Can’t wait to turn on my fireplace. It’s still in the 70’s here tho

  2. I am so loving this list of 31 Winter Hygge ideas. I cant wait to try some of these, especially the fondue and stargazing.

  3. One of my favorite memories growing up is getting bundled up and laying in the snow looking at the stars. I love this list! And the Facebook group is basically the only reason I check Facebook every day ๐Ÿ–ค

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  7. These are some of the best ideas I’ve found yet! Definitely having a picnic in front of my fire place.. I filled the inside with candles all at differing heights and lighting those brings such a cheery atmosphere. I’m a firm believer in creating an atmosphere at home that the whole family loves to be here at home, and that draws friends to just want to hang out! Its what life is all about!

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  9. I love the idea of a fireside picnic! How cozy! I recently just got my hardwood floors and the dark stain has made me fall back in love with our old fireplace, so I’ve been looking for ideas to utilize it more. Thanks for the hygge inspo!

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  12. I love this article!! The winter has been pretty intense this January 2024 in Nebraska! I got a cool book at the library for art journaling. โ€˜Keeping a Nature Journalโ€™ by Clare Walker Leslie. I love journaling so thought I might try adding some drawings and this book is perfect for it!! Thanks for all of your inspiring articles!!