Get the Most Out of Winter

By Gilmarie Brioso on January 16, 2013

Winter in New York City is lovely. The air is crisp and fresh. The naked trees offer a beautifully barren landscape. Everything feels clean and just right. But there are many who do not agree with me. They see winter as a cage, locking them within their apartments and offices, clinging to the warmth.

So for all those winter believers and non-believers, below are a couple of fun things to do when the temperature drops. Make sure not to miss out on them.

 

Play Winter Games

“If you’re lucky enough to live in snow-friendly parts of the U.S., grab your gloves and a couple of able-bodied friends for some good old fashioned snow games.  Find a good hill for sledding or hit the lake for ice fishing. For those in warmer climates, ice rinks often offer free admission as long as you bring your own skates.”

For New Yorkers, there are many hills within Brooklyn and The Bronx to explore. Ice skating is available at Bryant Park, Central Park and Rockefeller Center.

 

Host A Film Festival

“Movie tickets can cost up to $15 a pop these days, but your home is far cozier, comes with your own parking spot and – the best part – all the snacks are free.  Try hosting a film festival from your living room. These days, you can stream Netflix and Hulu straight to your TV or, if you’ve cut cable, invite friends to bring their own flicks. Pop popcorn, make hot chocolate and curl up next to people you know, rather than rows of gibbering strangers.”

 

Get Cultured

“Take advantage of federally-subsidized central heating and hit up all the best public exhibits your city has to offer this winter. Check community board listings or your local newspaper for new exhibits. In cities like New York and Washington, D.C., colder months are the best time for locals to enjoy the best city sights without swarms of tourists underfoot.”

 

Head to the MOMA, students of the New School can get in for free.

 

Warm Up with Liquid Libations

“Before you head to a holiday concert or museum, get your juices flowing with a free wine or beer tasting. Wineries and breweries often offer free tastings on certain days of the week, when patrons are encouraged to circulate and sip without the pressure of purchasing a pricey bottle to go. If the business is really classy, they’ll have some finger foods on hand, too, so feel free to chow down – within reason.”

 

Camp Out

“Campsites offer dirt cheap or free rates during the winter for obvious reasons, so if you’re up for a challenge, take a weekend camping trip or a day hike. You’ll get back to nature and the lack of outlets (i.e.: no distracting smartphones or computers) will bring everyone closer together.

If you’re not up for a multi-day arctic adventure, try having a picnic on the lake or at the beach in chillier months. Pack thermoses and bring warm foods for a picnic. If it’s legal in your area, lug along a pile of fresh cut wood to build a bonfire and keep warm.”

 

Party Time

“Don’t let the word ‘party’ fool you. You don’t have to blow your budget entertaining guests with champagne fountains and other ridiculous bells and whistles to have a good time. Invite friends over for game night or a potluck dinner. They can bring their own games and a dish to share and everyone will leave feeling satisfied. If your friends are crafty, exchange homemade gifts in lieu of pricey presents”

 

You can find more winter activities on Business Insider.

 

 

 

 

Images taken from a Business Insider Article

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