As we approach the holiday season, the rapidly worsening pandemic may have you feeling a bit less than optimistic about the possibility of restorative holiday cheer and fun. And while it is important we all continue to avoid risky behaviors, there are a good number of outdoor activities that will help you usher in the holidays without putting yourself or your family in danger.
Holiday light shows
A beautiful outdoor tradition involving massive structures adorned with radiant twinkling lights, this activity is perfect for families to enjoy while following COVID-19 precautions. Many of them, like the Hartford Holiday Light Fantasia or Hershey Park’s Sweet Lights, can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own car as you drive through elaborately lit holiday scenes. There are several sites that will help you find light displays in your area. mommynearest.com lists 10 of best displays throughout the country; Countryliving.com expands its similar tally to 38 worthwhile attractions. Considering investigating plans at your local zoo, from Washington DC’s Zoolights, to The Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo. Especially this year, many sites require reservations, so be sure to plan ahead.
Drive-in movies
Going to the movies during the holidays is a tradition for many families. While movie theaters have once again begun closing due to low attendance and a lack of new movies to screen, drive-ins are still a safe bet.
All you have to do reserve your spot, drive up and tune in to the designated radio station. The site driveinmovie.com will help you find a drive-in near you; Wide Open Countries has also rounded up some of the best drive-in theaters in America. I, for one, will be on the hunt for a drive-in theater playing The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Big wheel bike riding in the snow
If you are in parts of the country that still enjoy seasonal snowfalls, there are some fun winter sport activities you can still partake in during this unprecedented holiday season. Consider big wheel bike riding. These are not your childhood big wheels—wide-tire bikes are great in the snow, making them suitable for cold weather outdoor fun (though they also ride well on sand). “At low tire pressure, they float on surfaces where normal mountain bike, ’cross, or road tires would sink” says Bicycle.com. You can ride through a winter wonderland (or across a desert-like holiday road). Hit up Bend Trails for some tips for riding in the snow before you set out.
A Christmas scavenger hunt
If you need to entertain a group of people during the holidays without everyone cramming together indoors, a Christmas scavenger hunt (whether outdoors or over Zoom) can be a different and engaging activity to introduce this year. Play Party Plan has printable scavenger hunt cards and tips for executing the perfect holiday hunt. The list can include ornaments, neighborhood light displays, decorative holiday cookies, and more.