Jan 20, 2025

Thrifted Family Activities for Winter

image of family playing together

Winter is the perfect time to gather the family, get creative, and make lasting memories. Since it’s cold outside, why not bring the fun indoors? With a little imagination and help from Deseret Industries, you can plan unique, budget-friendly activities that everyone will love. 

Here are five thrifted ideas to spark your winter fun!

1. DIY Cozy Movie Night 

Transform your living room into a winter wonderland cinema. To set the mood, pick up blankets, throw pillows, and maybe even a popcorn maker from DI.  

  • Tip: Don’t forget to check out the media section for DVDs for family favorites or old classics. 

  • Bonus tip: Find a thrifted basket to make a "movie night kit" complete with snacks and drinks. 

2. Hot Cocoa Bar Setup 

Give your kitchen a cozy upgrade with a hot cocoa bar. Look for mismatched mugs, trays, and jars to store marshmallows, cocoa powder, and toppings. Thrifted jars can add a rustic charm that makes it Instagram-worthy. 

  • Family fun idea: Challenge everyone to create their most outrageous hot cocoa masterpiece!

3. Game Night Revival 

Board games never go out of style. DI always has a treasure trove of games waiting to be rediscovered. Stock up on games for all ages and have a marathon game night. 

  • Pro tip: Find a thrifted storage box or chest to organize your new game collection—it’s all part of the fun! 

  • Bonus tip: Expand your gaming horizons by exploring the media section of your local Deseret Industries for digital options such as old school video games or themed trivia challenges. 

4. DIY Winter Crafts 

DI has plenty of supplies from wreaths to snowman decorations to fuel your creativity. Hunt for mason jars, old frames, or even vintage sweaters you can turn into one-of-a-kind crafts. 

  • Idea to try: Make snow globes using thrifted jars or create a “family winter collage” with thrifted frames. 

5. Indoor Scavenger Hunt 

Create an epic indoor scavenger hunt using items from DI. Look for quirky treasures like toys or books to hide around the house. Write clever clues for the family to follow, and let the adventure begin! 

  • Tip to try: Add an extra layer of fun by incorporating a theme, such as a pirate adventure or a mystery detective case. Dress up in costumes and used themed props to make the experience even more immersive and exciting! 

Make this Winter Extra Special Today! 

These are just a few ideas to warm up your winter and make it unforgettable. Stop by your local Deseret Industries to gather supplies and spark your creativity! Not only will you save money, but you’ll also support DI’s mission of providing job training and community impact. 

We’d love to see what you create! Follow us on Instagram, tag us in your finds, and share how you’re making new winter memories with your family and friends.