The Best Outdoor Activities for Couples to Try in the 2025 Holiday Season
If you're looking for outdoor activities for couples to make this 2025 holiday season unforgettable, you’ve landed in the right place.
Winter is the perfect excuse to get outside, bundle up, and try some romantic outdoor date ideas that feel straight out of a magical Christmas movie. This list has everything you need to turn the season into your most magical one yet.
Holiday-Themed Outdoor Activities for Couples
As December rolls around, the holidays are in full swing. Whether we talk about Christmas, Hanukkah, the Winter Solstice, or New Year’s Eve, these are the best outdoor date ideas to try that are heavily holiday-themed.
1. Visit a Christmas Market
It seems like every year, Christmas markets open earlier and earlier, and it’s no surprise why! A favorite on everyone’s holiday bucket list, these markets are perfect for all ages.
Wander hand in hand, browse for ornaments, and snack your way through the stalls, making this one of the best outdoor activities for couples this season.
2. Go on a Christmas Tree Farm Date
Photo: Freepik
Take your Christmas tree shopping session to the next level. Visit a tree farm, pick a tree together, take photos between the rows, sip hot cider, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. This really makes you feel like you’re living in your own holiday rom-com!
And, if you're thinking of starting your own Christmas traditions for couples, start with this one.
3. Watch Christmas Lights
If busy Christmas markets are too much for you, head downtown and watch the Christmas lights together with your partner. You can admire them from the comfort of your car or take a romantic stroll through the streets.
This is also a great Christmas date idea for long distance couples. You can even watch Christmas lights from major cities around the world through walk-through vlogs on YouTube!
4. Go Caroling
Spread the holiday cheer by going caroling! You can:
- Do it on your own, just the two of you
- Join a local caroling group
- Accompany young relatives or neighbors
Don’t worry about singing off-key—caroling is one of those fun outdoor activities for couples that brings you closer and awakens the child within.
Check out this guide about the best carols, their lyrics, and what they mean.
5. Countdown to New Year’s Eve
Enter the New Year in an unforgettable manner! Find a rooftop or lookout spot, bring your sparkling wine glasses, and watch the fireworks as the clock hits midnight. Then of course, share the New Year’s midnight kiss with your partner to have good luck in the new year.
Tip: Keep track of all the beautiful moments together in one place–a shared couples journal. Use apps such as Couple Joy, one of the best free couples apps, to add photos, jot down funny memories, or remember every relationship holiday together.
It’s like having a scrapbook that grows with your relationship!
Winter Sports Outdoor Activities for Couples
We’re not talking Olympic-level sports here—just lighthearted couples activities to do that let you enjoy the snow, the cold weather, and stay active while having fun.
Before diving into any of these sports activities, check out Decathlon’s guide to winter sports.
6. Go Skiing
Whether you’re pros or sliding down the mountain like penguins, skiing is one of the best winter date activities you can try. Race each other, try new slopes, or go with the cable car to new heights.
At the end, you get the best award: hot cocoa in the lodge.
7. Go Snowboarding
If skiing’s not your thing and you’d rather go snowboarding, this is a great choice for sporty couples who want something bold. You’ll laugh, fall, get up again, and cheer each other on, which is everything that makes these outdoor activities for couples both bonding and exciting.
8. Go Sledding
Photo: Freepik
Go to a nearby hill—or travel somewhere that’s always snowy with a sledding area—grab a sled (or even a large tray or plastic bag), and slide down together. Keep going as many times as you like, until night falls.
Afterwards, head somewhere cozy and enjoy a warm bowl of soup. You’ll feel like children again!
9. Go on a Night Snowshoeing Tour With Lanterns
Here’s a unique date idea to try: go on a night tour with snowshoes and lanterns through a forest. Snowshoeing is a winter sport where special shoes prevent you from sinking into the snow, letting you explore forest paths and trails that are usually hard to reach.
Adding the night element makes it magical and a little spooky, which is perfect for adventurous couples.
10. Go Ice Skating
Go ice skating together for a classic winter date. You don’t need to be pros: hold hands, take it slow, and laugh at every fall.
- If you choose an outdoor ice rink, bring in your best winter clothes, especially gloves and scarfs.
- If you go to the mall, or an indoor ice rink, head over to a holiday shopping session afterwards—assuming you still have the energy.
Snow-Related Outdoor Activities for Couples
When you think of winter, the first thing that probably comes to mind is snow. And since you only get a few months to enjoy it (if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere), make the most of the season together. Pick the best snowy date idea from our list below—or try them all!
11. Build a Snowman
If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere that gets enough snow to build a snowman, don’t hesitate and go for it. Making a snowman is a team activity:
- Roll the snow
- Build your frosty buddy
- Decorate it with a carrot nose, a hat for its bald head, a scarf, and a few buttons
- Snap some photos together.
12. Go on a Winter Hike
Take a winter hike through snow-dusted forests or frosty hills. The quiet beauty of nature in winter makes it both peaceful and adventurous, a perfect way to unplug together. Hiking also strengthens your bond, as you support each other along the trail and celebrate finishing it safely.
Just make sure to bring your best gear, warm clothes, and plenty of supplies. Winter in the mountains can be unpredictable!
13. Rent a Snowmobile or an ATV
Photo: Freepik
For an exhilarating winter date, rent a snowmobile or ATV (where allowed) and explore snowy trails. The speed and scenery make for an unforgettable experience, one you might even want to repeat in the summer on sandy dunes!
14. Plan a Winter Picnic
Pack a thermos of hot chocolate, mulled wine, or tea, and bundle up under blankets for a winter picnic in the nearest park (or in the forest if you’re really adventurous). Bring some snacks, maybe a small portable speaker, and enjoy the quiet beauty of nature. For inspiration, BBC Food has some great picnic menu ideas.
It’s also a great opportunity to get to know each other and play couples’ games.
15. Have a Fun Snowball Fight
A snowball fight might sound like something just for kids, but who says adults can’t join the fun? It’s one of those outdoor activities for couples you don’t get to experience often, which makes it even more special. Bundle up, grab your best gloves, and head to a snowy park to battle it out.
This also makes a hilarious double date idea: go couple vs. couple and see who wins!
17. Go Ice Fishing
If you want a moment of peace and quiet, there’s no better activity than ice fishing with your partner. Sitting together on a frozen lake, surrounded by silence and crisp winter air is a unique calming experience.
This isn’t for adventure-seekers, though, but for the couples who enjoy slow moments.
18. Go on a Horse Sleigh Trip
Live your fairytale moment by taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snowy landscapes. Wrap yourselves in blankets and cuddle close as you glide through the snow. These moments make winter one of the most magical times of the year!
19. Go Winter Camping
For couples who don’t mind bundling up and are searching for the best way to soak in the winter weather, camping is the ultimate challenge. Pitch a warm tent, bring cozy sleeping bags, and don’t forget hot drinks and snacks.
Sitting together by a crackling fire and having deep conversations makes this one of the most memorable outdoor activities for couples you can try.
20. Visit an Ice Hotel
For couples ready to take their winter date game to the next level, here’s the ultimate challenge: spend a night in an ice hotel. Everything—from the walls to the beds—is carved from ice. You’ll sleep at around -5°C, relying on reindeer skin blankets and your clothes to keep warm.
Despite sounding too risky, it’s a guaranteed adventure that none of you will ever forget.
“Admire-the-Nature” Outdoor Activities for Couples
Nature is beautiful all year, but in winter, it has a special kind of magic. Maybe it’s the snow covering everything in white or simply the peaceful feeling in the air—but whatever it is, it’s worth taking the time to notice and enjoy.
21. Watch the Sunset or Sunrise
Cold weather doesn’t stop the sky from putting on a show. Winter sunsets and sunrises often glow with unique pink-purple hues. Find a quiet spot, make a bonfire, and enjoy the stillness together.
Use these private moments together to have deeper conversations. Ask each other questions to strengthen your bond, share your dreams, and discover new things about yourselves.
22. Stargaze During Peak Winter Constellations
Winter skies are perfect for stargazing, making it one of the best late night date activities. During this season, constellations like Orion, Taurus, and the Pleiades shine brightly and are not to be missed. If you’re into astrology, or just love gazing at the stars together, this is the perfect opportunity to watch the night sky.
Check out this guide on the main winter constellations for more details and make it a memorable winter date.
23. Watch the Wildlife
Photo: Freepik
Also a great fall date activity, wildlife watching lets you observe animals in their natural habitat: owls perched silently, deer darting through the snow, foxes exploring the forest, and flocks of winter birds singing.
Bring binoculars and take your time wandering, but remember: no feeding or interacting with the animals!
Miscellaneous Outdoor Activities
If you’re looking to step outside your comfort zone, these fun and adventurous outdoor activities are perfect for couples who want to make the most of the season.
24. Go on a “Digital Detox” Date
With so much technology and day-to-day stress, sometimes you just need to put down your phone and enjoy the moment. That’s why a “digital detox date” with your partner is perfect this holiday season.
Doing a winter outdoor activity is a fun way to fight what people call “brain rot,” but you can also mix it up with some indoor games for couples. The only rule is to not use your phone at all throughout the date!
25. Go on a Holiday Trip Somewhere Cold
Going on a snowy getaway adds a sense of adventure to your holiday season. You can:
- Visit a ski resort in the Alps
- Go on a city break with famous Christmas markets
- Visit all the countries in Scandinavia
- Spend a weekend getaway in a mountain cabin.
These are great winter trips for couples who want more than a play in the snow in their backyard.
26. Photoshoot in the Snow
Snowy landscapes make for some of the most magical photos, so why not turn it into a winter date? Dress in cute seasonal outfits, find a scenic location, and take your time capturing the moments together.
For inspiration, check out this guide to the best places to photograph in winter and plan a photo adventure that’s both romantic and memorable.
27. Go to the Beach
Photo: Freepik
Yes, the beach in winter! If you live near the shore, take a few walks along the empty coastline each week—the salty air is so beneficial for your health. If you’re farther inland, a day trip to the nearest sea works just as well.
Listen to the waves and enjoy the quiet together. It’s peaceful and makes you feel like you have the whole world to yourselves.
Final Thoughts
This holiday season is the perfect time to explore outdoor activities for couples and make memories you’ll laugh about years from now. And when you’re done exploring, open the Couple Joy app to save your adventures and celebrate your journey together as a couple, beyond the seasonal cheer!
