Our homes aren’t just homes anymore. They’re hosts to date nights on the couch, Zoom meetings from the dining room and classrooms from the kitchen counters. Toss that with the thick of winter when dark, dreary days seem to never end…and you’ve got a recipe for pent up energy! To get you and your family up and out of your mundane routine, we’ve created a list of safe-space options. So, turn off the TV and see what all South Bend has to offer!
HOLIDAY CARDS
Tis the season of gratitude….and holiday cards so grab the box of crayons and make your own. To help get you started, we’ve got a South Bend themed printable card on page 11 or at sbvpa.org/holidaycards.
HOWARD HOLIDAY MARKET
Howard Park is now home to your newest holiday tradition, the Howard Holiday Market. Let holiday music serenade you as you stroll through the market of local vendors, delicious food and specialty crafted brews.
SLEDDING
It may be on our list every year, but there’s a reason why we love sledding as a winter family tradition. Ditch the couch and head over to your favorite neighborhood park. Chances are it has a great hill made for sledding!
CROSS COUNTRY SKIING
Pump up your heartbeat and take in the fresh winter air while cross country skiing. Did you know we have a few parks suited for a good ski experience? With beautiful views and great trails, Erskine Park Golf Course and Pinhook Park are both great locations to check out this season.
ICE SKATING
Howard Park ice skating may look slightly different this year, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t lace up those skates and make some memories with us. Schedule your visit at visithowardpark.com/iceskating.
BUNDLE UP
Do you want to build a snowman? Bundle up and head outside. Up the ante and make it a contest to see who can make the biggest snowman! Winner gets first dibs on the hot cocoa…
HOT COCOA
Speaking of hot cocoa, forget the Swiss Miss packets and try a homemade recipe. This one is sure to knock your socks off. But you may want to put them back on because BRRR! It’s cold out there. sbvpa.org/hotcocoa
SCAVENGER HUNT
Cabin fever hit your house? Make a trip to Rum Village Park for a wintery scavenger hunt with the kids! There are many unique animals who call this park home…See if you
can sneak a peak at a few of them in their natural habitat. Print out a list for your next adventure at sbvpa.org/scavengerhunt.
SUPPORT ONE OF OUR PARTNERS AND LEARN SOMETHING NEW TOGETHER!
The Potawatomi Zoo, Studebaker Museum, South Bend Cubs, Museum of Art and Potawatomi Conservatory all typically host events during the winter months. Check out their websites to learn more about their offerings this season.