8 fun and free family-friendly winter activities

It's easy to find great, free and fun winter activities that will warm up your family's winter. Stuck for ideas on what to do or where to go? Consider these eight simple and easy-to-afford family activities.

The first snowfall opens up a world of possibility at parks. Many offer frozen ponds for ice-skating and sledding or tubing hills. Some also offer free equipment and lessons to local residents.

If the snow's deep enough, why not build a fort or two with your kids.

• You can add to the fun by building some snow people to live in the forts, too.
• Be warned, though, when snow forts pop up, family snowball fights may not be far behind.

Odds are, a mall near you has a free play area with toys or rides for kids. In addition, malls often hold special events like concerts that the entire family can attend.

In this video-intensive age we tend to forget about books. On a cold grey day, the local library provides a welcome chance to get out of the house and catch up on a good read.

• Most libraries offer free programs in winter, too, like storytelling for toddlers or discovery activities for older kids.

Many local charities welcome adults and kids for simple tasks like packing boxes or stuffing envelopes. Participating is a great chance to teach your kids to give back to the community.

Libraries, community centres and other organizations often host free family movie nights. Keep an eye out for one near you. And call ahead to find out if you can bring your own popcorn.

Gather together for an evening of family fun with a popular board game. Odds are there's one or two hidden in a closet in your home.

Warm apple cider can chase away the winter blues.

• Just heat some apple cider with a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg over a low heat.
• When the mixture is hot pour it into mugs and let the drinks cool slightly.
• Serve with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick.

Winter's chill makes us long for warm rooms, cozy blankets and a fire. Still, even in the heart of winter, it's nice to get out with the kids and have some fun.