Winter has many activities to look forward to.

With the official start of winter being Tuesday, Dec.22, here are some of my favorite outdoor activities to do.

Sledding

What is winter without sledding? I have gone sledding every year since I was a little girl, and I do not plan on stopping this year.

Sledding is most fun with family or friends.

It is also one of those activities that you can do anywhere — from the ditch in your front yard to the hill down the road. But make sure that you are bundled up in the appropriate sledding outerwear because it does not take long for frostbite to develop.

Ice Skating

Although I have yet to go ice skating, it is my goal to go this year.

Ice skating is a great way to exercise and can be done with family or friends.

There are many places to go ice skating around the Flint area such as the Dort Federal Event Center, the Crystal Field House Arena, and the Iceland Arena.

If you really want a holiday thrill, then I would advise you to go to the Campus Martius rink located in Detroit, although it is about an hour away. The rink is open to the public until Sunday, March 6.

Make Snow Angels and Snowmen 

For the first snowfall, or even after, bundle up in warm winter clothing and go outside and make snow angels or build a creative snowman.

Not only is it entertaining, but you can do it by yourself. I find it relaxing, and it does not take much of an effort. Just make sure you have a big cup of hot cocoa to warm up afterward.

Snowball Fights

Get a group of friends and split into teams. Each team has to build a wall (out of snow, of course) and defend their ‘fort.’ The team that gets hit the most loses.

Snowball fights are fun because they can last up to an hour, and there are no specific rules, so you can create your own as you play.

Christmas Lights Hunting 

As a little girl, I remember getting in the car with my mom and driving to different neighborhoods in search of houses with the most Christmas lights.

Some people go all out with their Christmas decorations, so you would be surprised at what you can find.

The cool thing about this activity is that it gets you out of the house without actually going out into the cold.

Winter is a rough season to find things to do, but these are a few activities to get you out of the house. Just remember, stay warm, and have a fun holiday season.