Countdown to Christmas: Festive Outdoor Crafts & Games

The big day is almost here, and the excitement is in the air! With only two sleeps until Christmas, it’s the perfect time to get the little ones outside for some festive fun. At Grass & Air, we believe the best way to burn off that pre-Christmas energy is by combining the season's magicwith outdoor adventures. So, we’ve rounded up our favourite festive crafts and games to make December 23rd a day full of creativity, laughter, and wintery memories.

 

1. Nature-Inspired Christmas Decorations

Encourage kids to create their own Christmas ornaments using treasures from the great outdoors.

•      What you’ll need: Twigs, pinecones, leaves, and berries (all collected during a family walk), plus string, glue, and paint.
•     Craft idea: Turn pinecones into mini Christmas trees by painting them green and decorating them with glitter or tiny beads. Or, use twigs to make rustic star ornaments.
•     Why it’s great: It’s a chance to explore nature while making something special for the tree or to gift to loved ones.

 

2. Reindeer Relay Races

Bring out your kids’ inner Rudolph with this active, outdoor game!

•   How to play: Create a short obstacle course and divide the kids into “reindeer teams.” Use hula hoops, cones, or natural markers like rocks to guide the course. Add fun challenges like balancing “Santa’s sack” (a beanbag) on their heads.
•    Festive twist: Make it extra fun by having the kids wear reindeer antlers or red noses during the race.
•    Why it’s great: This game gets kids moving, builds teamwork, and adds a dash of holiday magic to outdoor play.

 

3. Snowman (or Leafman) Building Contest

If you’re lucky enough to have snow, building a snowman is a must. If not, use leaves, sticks, or other natural materials to create a “Leafman”!

• Add a challenge: See who can build the tallest snowman or the most creative Leafman.
• Fun accessories: Hats, scarves, and buttons from home, plus twigs and stones from the garden, make for the perfect finishing touches.
•  Why it’s great: It’s a classic winter activity that encourages creativity and gets kids excited about being outdoors.

 

4. Winter Scavenger Hunt

Turn your garden or local park into a winter wonderland with a scavenger hunt!

• What to find: Holly, pinecones, bird feathers, animal tracks, or even something red like a berry or scarf.
• How to play: Give each child a checklist and let them explore to find the items. Bonus points if they spot a robin!
• Why it’s great: It’s a fun and educational way to connect kids with the natural world, even in winter.

 

5. Puddle Jumping Adventure

Rain doesn’t have to stop the fun—turn it into a festive puddle-jumping session instead!

•   How to prepare: Bundle the kids up in Grass & Air’s puddlesuits, plus our Peppa Pig color-changing kids wellies and cozy beanies, to keep them warm and dry.
• Add a festive touch: Sing Christmas songs or pretend the puddles are “Santa’s sleigh tracks” while you splash around.
• Why it’s great: It’s simple, joyful, and perfect for getting some fresh air before cosying up inside.

 

6. Decorate an Outdoor Tree

If you have a tree in your garden or a nearby park, why not turn it into a Christmas masterpiece?

• How to decorate: Use homemade ornaments from your nature craft session, biodegradable ribbon, or strings of popcorn and cranberries.
• Bonus idea: Add bird-friendly decorations like seed-covered pinecones or apple slices for your feathered friends.
• Why it’s great: It’s a magical way to bring Christmas outdoors while giving back to nature.

 

7. Christmas Freeze Dance

Bring the festive tunes outside and have a “freeze dance” session in the garden.

•  How to play: When the music stops, everyone must “freeze” in a Christmas-themed pose (e.g., like a reindeer, Santa, or a Christmas tree).
• Why it’s great: It’s a hilarious way to keep kids active and entertained while embracing the holiday spirit.

 

Why Outdoor Play Is Perfect Before Christmas

In the final days before Christmas, kids are buzzing with excitement, and outdoor play is a wonderful way to channel that energy. Whether they’re running around in a reindeer relay or crafting ornaments from nature, these activities create lasting memories and encourage creativity and exploration. Plus, fresh air and exercise help set the stage for a calm, cosy evening indoors.

 

Gear Up for Outdoor Fun

Before heading out, make sure your little ones are kitted out in Grass & Air’s puddlesuits, girls wellies, boys wellies, and winter accessories. Our Peppa Pig color-changing wellies and weatherproof puddlesuits are the perfect companions for festive fun, rain or shine. Designed for warmth, comfort, and practicality, they make every adventure magical and mess-free.

 

Share Your Festive Fun!

We’d love to see how your family counts down to Christmas! Tag us @Grassandair and share your outdoor crafts, games, and holiday adventures. Let’s make this festive season one to remember!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Grass & Air!