What do College Students Do During Winter Break? (100 Ideas)

This blog post is all about answering the question, “What do college students do during winter break?” For many, it’s a blend of rest, productivity, and making memories.

I curated a list of 100 ideas to inspire you, no matter your vibe. Whether you want to relax, pick up new skills, or reconnect with loved ones, there’s definitely something in here for you to check out and try.

Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

• Relaxation and Self-Care Activities
• Catch Up on Academics
• Spend Time With Family and Friends
• Travel and Explore
• Skill-Building and Self-Improvement
• Earn Extra Income
• Volunteer and Give Back
• Creative and Fun Hobbies
• Prepare for the Upcoming Semester
• More Ideas for College Students to Do During Winter Break 
• Related Articles
• Final Thoughts

Relaxation and Self-Care Activities

1. Catch Up on Sleep: A busy semester leaves many students sleep-deprived. Use winter break to create a consistent sleep schedule and recharge.
   
   Proper sleep improves focus, mood, and overall health. Aim for at least 7-9 hours each night to fully recover.

2. Indulge in a Spa Day: Whether it’s at home with DIY treatments or at a local spa, pampering yourself is a great way to de-stress. You can also check online for home service massages.
   
   Create a calming atmosphere with candles and soothing music. Consider treatments like facials or aromatherapy for added relaxation.

3. Binge-Watch Favorite Shows: Revisit beloved TV series or discover trending ones. Winter break is the perfect time to catch up on episodes you missed during busy school weeks.
   
   Like, Smallville is on Amazon Prime right now, and watching it again is instant nostalgia!
   
4. Read for Fun: Academic reading can be draining, so why not dive into novels or self-help books?
   
   Pick genres you love, whether it’s mystery, romance, or fantasy. Reading for enjoyment can also improve creativity and reduce stress.

5. Practice Meditation and Yoga: These activities improve mental clarity and relaxation.
   
   Try apps like Calm and Headspace. Just 10-15 minutes a day can help you reset and develop a mindfulness routine.

6. Take Long Baths: Light candles, play music, and enjoy the serenity of a warm soak.
   
   Add bath salts or essential oils to enhance the experience. This is a great way to unwind after a hectic semester.

7. Journal Your Thoughts: Reflect on the past semester and set intentions for the next.
   
   Writing helps process emotions and clear mental clutter. Use prompts to make journaling more structured and insightful.

8. Listen to Podcasts: Find shows that entertain or inspire personal growth.
   
   Whether it’s true crime, comedy, or self-improvement, you’ll definitely find a podcast for you. Personally, I love podcast shows on anything related to side hustles and passive income.

9. Go for Nature Walks: Fresh air and scenic views can do wonders for your well-being.
   
   Try exploring parks, trails, or even your neighborhood. I love walking my dogs during winter breaks because it’s the best time to add on extra miles (and steps)!

10. Declutter Your Space: A clean, organized environment promotes mental peace.
    
    Go through your belongings and donate or discard items you no longer need. An organized space makes it easier to focus and feel at ease.

Catch Up on Academics

11. Review Notes and Coursework: Use this time to strengthen areas where you struggled.
    
    Revisiting notes can reinforce key concepts. It’s also an opportunity to organize and archive materials for future reference.

12. Start Preparing for Spring Semester: Order textbooks and glance over syllabi if available.
    
    Familiarizing yourself with course material in advance can reduce term anxiety. Create a list of what you need and start planning.

13. Take an Online Course: Platforms like Udemy offer free or affordable courses to boost your knowledge. Focus on areas that interest you or enhance your major. This can also be a great addition to your resume.

14. Create Study Goals: Outline what you want to achieve academically in the upcoming term. Break larger goals into manageable steps. Use a planner to track your progress and stay organized.

15. Join Study Groups: Connect with classmates virtually to review material or work on group projects. Study groups provide different perspectives and accountability. They also make learning more interactive.

16. Work on a Research Project: If you’re in an honors program, make progress on your thesis or capstone project. Winter break offers uninterrupted time for deep research. Take advantage of this period to draft or refine your work.

17. Learn a New Study Technique: Try methods like Pomodoro or active recall to enhance efficiency. These techniques can help with time management and information retention. Experiment to find what works best for you.

18. Catch Up on Required Reading: Get ahead on books or articles you’ll need for classes. Annotating as you read can improve comprehension. This also makes the upcoming semester less overwhelming.

19. Write Practice Essays: Sharpen your writing skills and prepare for upcoming assignments. Practice makes perfect, especially with complex topics. Seek feedback from peers or mentors for improvement.
    
    And to make sure that you don’t lose your work, you can easily set up your own hosted blog through Hostinger. It’s super inexpensive to start, and who knows? Your little project may end up being a side hustle that’ll replace your full-time income. Did you know that The Huffington Post started as a blog? Yep—and look where it’s at now!

20. Plan Your Academic Calendar: Map out important dates and deadlines. Use digital tools or physical planners to stay organized. Having a clear schedule can prevent last-minute stress.
    
    I recommend Notion for scheduling, planning, and organizing your academic calendars and notes. It’s extremely convenient and you can access it anywhere.
    
    Get a free Notion account by clicking here.

Spend Time With Family and Friends

21. Plan a Game Night: Bring everyone together for board games or video games. Laughter and competition create lasting memories. Try new games to keep the night fresh and exciting.

22. Host a Movie Marathon: Watch holiday classics or favorite franchises. Prepare snacks and cozy blankets for the ultimate experience. This is a fun way to bond with family or friends.

23. Cook or Bake Together: Share family recipes or experiment with new ones. Cooking together fosters teamwork and creativity. Plus, you’ll have delicious food to enjoy afterward.

24. Go Ice Skating: A fun winter activity that’s great for bonding. It’s also a fantastic way to stay active during the break. Don’t forget to capture photos to remember the day.

25. Visit Relatives: Use this time to reconnect with family members you don’t see often. Sharing stories and updates can strengthen relationships. Make an effort to show appreciation for their presence in your life.

26. Have Deep Conversations: Strengthen relationships through meaningful discussions. Winter break provides the time to talk without distractions. Open communication builds trust and understanding.

27. Create a Scrapbook: Document memories from the past year. Include photos, notes, and mementos. Scrapbooking is a creative way to reflect and preserve experiences.

28. Volunteer as a Family: Join forces to give back to the community. Helping others can bring families closer together. Choose causes that resonate with everyone.

29. Organize a Secret Santa Exchange: Add some holiday cheer with gift-giving. Set a budget and have fun picking thoughtful gifts. This tradition is perfect for family or friend groups.

30. Take Family Photos: Capture moments you’ll treasure forever. Coordinate outfits or themes for a professional touch. These photos make great keepsakes or gifts.

Travel and Explore

31. Go on a Road Trip: Take a scenic drive to explore nearby attractions. Bring snacks, a great playlist, and enjoy the journey. Road trips are a perfect way to bond with friends or family.

32. Visit a New City: Experience the culture, food, and landmarks of a different city. It’s a great way to expand your horizons. Plan a day itinerary to make the most of your visit.

33. Plan a Ski Trip: Head to the mountains for snow-filled adventures. Skiing, snowboarding, or even building snowmen can be exciting. Don’t forget to pack warm clothes and a thermos of hot cocoa.

34. Travel Home: Reconnect with family if you’re studying far away. Home-cooked meals and familiar faces provide comfort. Use this time to recharge in a familiar environment.

35. Explore Your Hometown: Rediscover local spots you may have overlooked. Visit museums, parks, or favorite childhood hangouts. It’s a chance to see your hometown with fresh eyes.

36. Take a Camping Trip: Even in winter, camping can be a unique adventure. Rent a cozy cabin or set up a safe campsite. Enjoy stargazing and cooking meals over a fire.
    
    
37. Visit National Parks: Many parks offer breathtaking winter landscapes. Bundle up for scenic hikes or wildlife spotting. National parks often have fewer crowds during this season.

38. Go to a Winter Festival: Immerse yourself in festive activities like holiday markets or light displays. Savor seasonal treats and local performances. Festivals are an excellent way to embrace the holiday spirit.

39. Attend a Concert or Play: Support local artists by attending shows or performances. Winter break often features holiday-themed productions. Check your area for events and make a night of it.

40. Staycation: Book a night at a nearby hotel or Airbnb for a mini getaway. Treat yourself to room service and a relaxing ambiance. It’s an affordable way to change your environment without traveling far.

Skill-Building and Self-Improvement

41. Learn a New Language: Apps like Duolingo or Babbel make it easy to start. Practice speaking with friends or through online groups. Becoming bilingual can boost your career prospects.

42. Take a Cooking Class: Learn to make dishes from different cuisines. Many online and in-person classes are available. Impress family or friends with your new culinary skills.

43. Develop a Fitness Routine: Create a workout plan that fits your lifestyle. Use YouTube tutorials or join a local gym. Staying active improves physical health and mental well-being.

44. Improve Writing Skills: Start a blog (I recommend getting Hostinger if you’re starting out), journal, or write short stories. Experiment with creative writing or professional pieces. Writing regularly enhances communication and expression.

45. Learn Photography: Experiment with a camera or smartphone. Study lighting, composition, and editing techniques. Photography is a rewarding hobby that helps you capture memories.

46. Pick Up Coding: Platforms like Codecademy or FreeCodeCamp offer beginner-friendly courses. Learning to code can open doors in tech-related fields. Start with simple projects to build your confidence.

47. Try Public Speaking: Join groups like Toastmasters or practice in front of friends. Build confidence by preparing short speeches. Public speaking is a valuable skill for academics and careers.

48. Enhance Time Management: Use tools like Notion—my personal favorite, to plan tasks. Learn to prioritize and create realistic schedules. Mastering time management reduces stress and increases productivity.
    
    You can try Notion for free here.

49. Learn Graphic Design: Tools like Canva or Adobe Express make designing easy. Create visuals for personal projects or social media. Graphic design skills are highly marketable in many industries.

50. Attend Personal Development Workshops: Look for webinars or in-person events. Topics can range from leadership to emotional intelligence. These workshops offer growth opportunities and networking.

Earn Extra Income

51. Find a Seasonal Job: Retail stores and restaurants often hire extra help during the holidays. Seasonal jobs provide quick income and flexible hours. Gain work experience while earning some cash.

52. Freelance Online: Offer your skills on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Graphic design, writing, and data entry are in demand. Freelancing lets you work from home on your own schedule, and is something I completely swear by. It’s what helped me transition from having a typical 9 to 5 to working on my own terms.

53. Sell Crafts or Art: Create handmade items like jewelry or paintings. Use Etsy or local markets to reach customers. Selling crafts allows you to turn hobbies into income.

54. Participate in Paid Surveys: Websites like Swagbucks pay for opinions on products. Surveys are a quick and easy way to earn pocket money. They can be completed during downtime.

55. Tutor Students: Offer help in subjects you excel at, like math or English. Tutor peers or younger students for a fee. Tutoring builds teaching skills and reinforces your knowledge, and it also helps you make decent money!
    
    I used to teach Japanese professionals English during my spare time in college, and it was my first job. I loved every minute of it!

56. Sell Textbooks: Earn money by selling books you no longer need. List them on platforms like Amazon, eBay, or local buy-sell groups. Selling textbooks clears space and adds to your wallet.

57. Pet Sitting: Watch over pets for neighbors or use apps like Rover. Pet sitting is fun and pays well. Enjoy time with furry friends while making extra cash.

58. Deliver Food: Sign up for services like DoorDash or Uber Eats. Delivering food offers flexible hours and decent pay. It’s a great way to stay active and earn simultaneously.

59. Rent Out Items: Offer things like cameras, tools, or party supplies. Platforms like Fat Llama (if you’re in the UK) connect renters with customers. Renting out items provides passive income. Facebook Marketplace can also be a good option.

60. Social Media Management: Help small businesses manage their social media accounts. Create posts, schedule updates, and engage with followers. Social media expertise is highly valued by brands.

Volunteer and Give Back

61. Help at a Food Bank: Assist in distributing meals to those in need. Food banks often require extra hands during the holidays. Volunteering makes a tangible difference in your community.

62. Organize a Clothing Drive: Collect winter clothes for shelters or donation centers. Involve friends and family to maximize contributions. Clothing drives help people stay warm during colder months.

63. Work With Animal Shelters: Volunteer to walk dogs, clean kennels, or assist adoptions. Animal shelters rely on community support. Spending time with animals can be therapeutic.

64. Mentor High School Students: Share advice on college life and academics. Help students prepare for applications or exams. Mentoring builds leadership skills and fosters connections.

65. Participate in Community Cleanup: Join efforts to clean parks, beaches, or streets. Community cleanups promote environmental awareness. They’re a great way to meet like-minded people.

66. Donate Blood: Make a life-saving impact by donating blood. Blood banks often face shortages during winter. Check local drives and schedule an appointment.

67. Help Seniors: Visit nursing homes or assist elderly neighbors with chores. Simple acts like grocery runs or conversations brighten their day. Helping seniors fosters a sense of community.

68. Teach a Skill: Offer free workshops in art, music, or tech for kids. Libraries or community centers are great places to host. Teaching empowers others and builds confidence in your abilities.

69. Join Habitat for Humanity: Contribute to building homes for those in need. Habitat projects provide hands-on experience and teamwork. It’s a rewarding way to give back and learn new skills.
    
70. Host a Fundraiser: Organize an event to support a cause you care about. Bake sales, charity runs, or auctions can raise significant funds. Fundraisers bring communities together for good.

Creative and Fun Hobbies

71. Start a DIY Project: Create handmade gifts or home decor. Use online tutorials for inspiration. DIY projects let you personalize items and save money.

72. Experiment With Photography: Capture winter landscapes or special moments. Learn editing techniques to enhance your photos. Photography encourages creativity and mindfulness.

73. Write a Short Story: Explore fiction by crafting unique characters and plots. Share your work with friends or online communities. Writing stories hones creativity and storytelling skills.

74. Learn to Play an Instrument: Pick up the guitar, piano, or ukulele. Practice daily to master chords and songs. Playing an instrument enhances coordination and relieves stress.

75. Paint or Sketch: Express yourself through art using pencils, watercolors, or acrylics. Art is a therapeutic and rewarding hobby. Join local classes or follow online tutorials.

76. Try Knitting or Crocheting: Make scarves, blankets, or other cozy items. These crafts are relaxing and result in practical creations. Handmade gifts are thoughtful and appreciated.

77. Create Digital Art: Use tools like Procreate or Adobe Illustrator. Design logos, illustrations, or animations. Digital art is a valuable skill with creative and professional applications.

78. Decorate Your Room: Refresh your space with new decor. Rearrange furniture or add seasonal touches. A revamped room can boost productivity and comfort.
    
79. Make Vision Boards: Visualize your goals with a collage of images and quotes. Use magazines, printouts, or digital platforms. Vision boards inspire motivation and clarity.

80. Explore Local Coffee Shops: Discover new spots to relax or study. Support small businesses by trying their specialties. Coffee shops often provide a cozy and creative atmosphere.

Prepare for the Upcoming Semester

81. Update Your Resume: Reflect on achievements and add new experiences. Tailor it for internships or job opportunities. A polished resume opens doors to professional growth.

82. Organize Academic Supplies: Sort through notes, textbooks, and stationery. Restock essentials for the new term. Being prepared reduces stress when classes resume.

83. Plan Your Schedule: Use a planner to outline class times, assignments, and goals. A well-structured schedule improves time management. Balance academics with extracurricular activities.

84. Set Financial Goals: Create a budget for the semester’s expenses. Include tuition, books, rent, and leisure. Financial planning ensures you stay on track.

85. Apply for Internships: Research opportunities in your field of study. Apply early to secure positions for summer. Internships provide valuable experience and networking.

86. Reconnect With Professors: Reach out to faculty for advice or mentorship. Building rapport can help with future academic or career opportunities.
    
    Professors often appreciate proactive students, and the winter break provides a relaxed time to strengthen these connections.

87. Practice Job Interview Skills: Use mock interviews to boost your confidence.
    
    Role-playing with friends or using online resources can help you refine your answers. Polished interview skills are essential for internships and future jobs.

88. Review Study Techniques: Experiment with new methods like spaced repetition or mind mapping.
    
    Reflect on what worked last semester and make adjustments. Improved techniques can help you retain more information and study more efficiently.

89. Organize Digital Files: Sort through your laptop or cloud storage. Archive old files and set up folders for the new semester. This simple task makes it easier to find documents when needed.

90. Sign Up for Extracurriculars: Explore clubs or organizations that align with your interests.
    
    Winter break is a great time to research opportunities and prepare for sign-ups. Participating in extracurriculars enhances your college experience and builds your resume.

More Ideas for College Students to Do During Winter Break 

91. Take a Creative Writing Class: Enroll in an online workshop to enhance storytelling skills.
    
    Writing creatively can improve communication and spark new ideas. Use this time to explore genres you’ve always wanted to try.

92. Host a Virtual Meetup: Reconnect with friends who live far away. Set up a fun activity like trivia or karaoke online.
    
    Virtual meetups can help maintain relationships despite physical distance.

93. Start a Small Business: Test entrepreneurial ideas like selling handmade crafts or offering tutoring services.
    
    Winter break provides time to plan and launch your venture. Running a small business can teach you valuable skills and earn extra income.
    
    If you’re starting with no capital or money, I recommend learning about how to become a self-published author and publish no-content or low-content books online. I have a full course on how I use Amazon to make an extra $500 or more per month. Check it out here.

94. Go Stargazing: Spend a night marveling at the constellations in a clear, dark sky.
    
    Bring blankets and hot drinks to make it cozy. Stargazing is a peaceful way to reflect and connect with nature. Better yet, bring your friends and/or family members along!
    
95. Organize Your Closet: Declutter and donate items you no longer wear. Use this opportunity to create a capsule wardrobe for the new semester.
    
    A well-organized closet saves time and reduces stress when getting ready. (It also makes it easier for you to find your stuff!)

96. Create a Workout Challenge: Set fitness goals and commit to a 30-day plan. Share your progress with friends or on social media for accountability. A workout challenge is a fun way to stay active and build healthy habits.

97. Explore a New Hobby: Try activities like pottery, dancing, or learning to code. Experimenting with new hobbies can uncover hidden talents and passions. Winter break offers the perfect downtime for exploration.

98. Build a Reading Nook: Create a cozy space with cushions, blankets, and good lighting. Use your reading nook to escape into books or study peacefully. A dedicated space can enhance focus and relaxation.

99. Host a Baking Competition: Challenge friends or family to create delicious desserts. Share the treats and enjoy some friendly competition. Baking is a creative and satisfying way to spend time together.
    
    
100. Write Letters to Future You: Reflect on your goals and aspirations for the coming year. Seal the letters to read later as a reminder of your progress.
     
     Writing to your future self can be motivating and insightful. I recommend checking out FutureMe. I write future letters to myself all the time and it’s always a pleasant surprise to see how far I’ve come when I receive them. It’s totally free to sign up too!

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Final Thoughts

So, What do college students do during winter break? With these 100 ideas, you’ll find the perfect mix of relaxation and productivity to make your winter break unforgettable.

Personally, I looooove winter break! It’s the perfect opportunity to reset, recharge, and prepare for the year ahead. Use this time to relax, catch up on academics, or try something new—the possibilities are endless.