Free Winter Activities in the Triad
Winter in the Triad is a magical time, and the good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your family entertained. From festive events to outdoor adventures, there are plenty of free winter activities that will keep kids and parents alike engaged during the colder months. Here’s a list of options that combine fun, exploration, and the spirit of the season.
Free Holiday Events in the Triad
The holiday season in the Triad is brimming with festive cheer, and many local communities offer free winter activities perfect for families.
Downtown Tree Lightings and Parades
Most towns in the Triad, including Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point, host annual tree lightings and parades. These events often include live music, visits with Santa, and kid-friendly activities. Bundle up and enjoy the magic of the season without spending a dime. You can see a full list of Tree Lightings and Holiday Parades Here.
Downtown Greensboro
The Festival of Lights as well as The Holiday Parade are a few free events in Downtown Greensboro. Christmas at the Carolina is another free event where you can watch The Muppets Christmas Carol, get a free soft drink and popcorn, and have your picture taken with Santa. You can take a walk through downtown Greensboro and admire the light displays throughout the city. Take a moment to stop and watch the ice skaters at Skyla Winterfest Ice Skating.
Holiday Light Displays
While some light shows require tickets, many neighborhoods in the Triad go all out with dazzling displays you can enjoy for free. Pack some hot cocoa, pile into the car, and take a drive through well-lit areas like the Sunset Hills neighborhood in Greensboro to see their famous “Chicken Wire Christmas Balls.” You can also watch the Running of the Balls 5k(ish) while admiring the lights, but you do need to pay if you decide to run. You can see a full list of our Holiday Lights here.
Santa visits
There are numerous opportunities to see Santa in the Triad, many of which are free. Check out our Santa in the Triad directory for a full list. The Biltmore Hotel in Downtown Greensboro has several dates in December that are free to visit and get photos taken with Santa – Santa at the Biltmore.
Christmas on State Street
Kick off your holiday festivities with a visit to Christmas on State Street in Greensboro! This annual event is a local favorite, transforming State Street into a winter wonderland. You’ll find sparkling lights, holiday decorations, and family-friendly activities, including live music, local artisan markets, and delicious seasonal treats. It’s the perfect outing for getting into the festive spirit.
Winter Outdoor Adventures for the Family
Don’t let the colder weather keep you indoors—there are plenty of outdoor activities in the Triad that are both fun and free.
- Parks and Trails: The Triad is home to several parks and hiking trails perfect for a winter stroll. Guilford Courthouse National Military Park in Greensboro and Salem Lake in Winston-Salem offer scenic views and peaceful walking paths. A brisk walk not only gets the kids’ energy out but also gives you a chance to enjoy the beauty of winter landscapes.
- Visit a Park or Playground: Visiting a park or playground can give your kids (and yourself) a moment to breathe in some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors.
- Stroll Through Historic Streets: The cobblestone streets and historic buildings of Old Salem are open to the public for walking, providing a picturesque backdrop for a holiday outing. The district is beautifully decorated with traditional Moravian Christmas decorations, including greenery, candles, and stars. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or taking festive family photos. Make sure to check out the covered bridge while you are there.
- Geocaching Adventures: Turn your family outing into a treasure hunt! Geocaching is a free activity that combines exploration and discovery. There are hundreds of geocaches hidden across the Triad, making it a great way to explore local parks and landmarks. Check out this link to Geocaching in the Triad.
- Bird Watching: Grab a pair of binoculars and head to a local park to observe winter birds. Tanglewood Park in Clemmons and Bur-Mil Park in Greensboro are excellent spots for birdwatching. Teaching kids how to identify different species makes it a fun learning experience.
- Winter Stargazing: The clear skies of winter provide the perfect backdrop for stargazing. Find an open area away from city lights, such as Pilot Mountain State Park, and spend an evening gazing at the stars. Bring a blanket and learn constellations together as a family.
Educational Winter Activities and Free Museum Days
Winter is a wonderful time to sneak in some learning while having fun.
- Public Libraries: Libraries in the Triad are more than just books. They host free storytime sessions, crafts, and other activities for kids. Many also have cozy reading nooks that are perfect for a family outing on a chilly day.
Links to libraries’ story times/events
Alamance County
Davidson County
Davie County
Forsyth County
Greensboro/Guilford
Northwestern (Stokes, Alleghany, Surry, and Yadkin)
Randolph County
Museums with Free Admission Days
While many museums charge admission, some offer free days or discounts during the winter. The Weatherspoon Art Museum in Greensboro and High Point Museum are always free and provides interactive exhibits that kids love. ArtQuest at GreenHill Center in Greensboro offers family nights every Wednesday for kids to explore their artistic side, and admission is free. Check out this blog post for a bigger list Discounted and Free Museum Days in the Triad
Fun at Home Winter Activities Seasonal Crafts and DIY
When the weather keeps you indoors, get creative with free or low-cost materials you already have at home. Check out this blog post Winter Indoor Activities for Kids at Home for more ideas!
- Nature Crafts: Collect pinecones, twigs, and other natural materials during your outdoor adventures. Use them to make holiday decorations or winter-themed crafts.
- Baking Together: While this isn’t entirely free, baking with ingredients you already have is a great way to bond and teach kids about measuring and following instructions. Decorate cookies or cupcakes with a winter theme for added fun.
- Family Movie Nights: Create a cozy movie night experience with blankets, pillows, and a selection of winter classics.
Indoor Places to Burn off Some Energy this Winter
Mall playgrounds are a great way to entertain kids, especially during the winter months when outdoor play isn’t always an option. Four Seasons Mall and Hanes Mall have indoor playgrounds. This is a great free option for an indoor place to play. Life Church in Greensboro has a free indoor playground open to the public available on Fridays 9-12pm, and you don’t need to be a member to go!
Get together with a Playgroup
If you are not already involved in a group, this can be an excellent idea for your children, and also for the moms. Kids get to interact with other kids their own age, and mom gets some adult time. Visit our Mom & Child Groups directory here for some ideas, or join our TMoM Chat Page and get a group together on your own!
Winter in the Triad doesn’t have to be expensive to be memorable. These free activities provide a chance to make lasting family memories while embracing all that the season has to offer. So grab your coat, gather the kids, and enjoy all the amazing opportunities available right here in our local community.
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