Winter can be a challenging season when it comes to thinking of things to do for the entertainment of families, kids need to get out and burn that energy off yet the seasonal weather is not exactly cooperative for hours of outside play. However there are many options for getting kids out of the house, from a trip out to a fun place for supper, to a romp in the snow. But what about winter weekends with the family? What kinds of things are there to do that everyone will enjoy this time of year?

These top five winter weekend family activities vary from active to passive pursuits and are sure to have something for everyone to enjoy, young and older alike. Like everything, some cost more money than others, so ideas to people on a variety of budget sizes as well.

1.Get Out of Dodge

On the more expensive side of things, families can take a break and head out of town or even the country on a winter vacation. If it’s winter sports that thrill your family, head to one of the family oriented ski resorts where younger children as well as adults can take ski lessons and hit the slopes. Enjoy an adrenalin experience in winter, the thrill and excitement of the days will ensure your little ones sleep through the night! If warmer temperatures are more up your family’s alley, a quick weekend getaway to warmer climes might be just the ticket to lift the winter doldrums and refresh you and your family.

2.Staycations

The going rage in saving money as well as learning about your local area is to stay home and explore the things that are around you that you never notice. Daytrips out around your local area can always discover some gems - winters fayres, visiting Santa claus, getting out to a rustic pub in the country. Or you can find indoor fun for the family, such activities as ice skating, laser tag or indoor play spaces to break up winter days and burn some of that endless kid energy.

3.At Home

If the snow and bitter cold wind keep you and yours from venturing out during the winter, plan ahead for movie marathons and crafting sessions. Winter weekend family activities do not have to be complicated, just something fresh and fun to do. New board games or video games can liven things right up without anyone getting out in the cold. Contests can be set up with the games, promoting lots of family fun, as long as you don't get too competitive! Forfeits for the losers can be things like the washing up, that makes everyone get involved!

4.Get Outside

Bundle everyone up in your winter woollies and build a fort or an entire family of snowmen! Make your own village version of the Terracotta Army but out of snow! All the better when you come inside to warm up with hot chocolate and a movie.

5.Volunteer

A really great thing to do over the festive season. Something that you and your family will enjoy, but the people or the area you are helping. When the weather permits, take the family to the nursing home or rehab centre to talk to people who sometimes have very few if any visitors. Smaller children can draw pictures for them or sing songs. This sort of visit brightens many days for many people.

Alternatively, if you'd rather be outside, volunteer at a local park or National Trust area, there's always lots to do that will get your blood pumping and ready to drop at the end of the day.

While winter time can be a challenging time for families, making a concentrated effort to plan fun activities and family weekend breaks will help keep the cabin fever at bay.