Holiday camps are a great way to keep kids active, engaged, and social during school breaks. Camp directors can design themed activities that bring the spirit of the holidays to life while fostering teamwork, creativity, and fun. Here are five activity ideas to make your holiday camp memorable.
1. Holiday-Themed Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is a classic activity that can be easily tailored to the season. Hide themed objects—such as candy canes, ornaments, or snowflakes—around the facility. Provide campers with clues, riddles, or a checklist to complete the hunt. This activity encourages teamwork, problem-solving, and plenty of excitement as campers race to find every item.
2. DIY Holiday Crafts Workshop
Craft sessions are a great way for campers to express creativity while making something they can take home. Ideas include decorating ornaments, making holiday cards, or creating festive garlands. Craft workshops also allow for a calm, indoor activity when the weather is chilly and give campers a chance to share their handmade gifts with family.
3. Winter Olympics or Holiday Games
Turn your camp into a mini “Winter Olympics” with fun competitions like relay races, sled pulls, snowball toss (using bean bags if no snow is available), or a festive obstacle course. Award small prizes or medals for participation. These games bring energy, laughter, and a healthy dose of friendly competition to the camp.
Cooking is always a hit at holiday camps. Plan a simple, hands-on baking session where campers decorate cookies, build gingerbread houses, or make festive treats like hot cocoa mugs with marshmallows. Cooking activities teach basic skills, encourage teamwork, and (best of all) end with delicious rewards.
Transform the camp hall into a cozy theater. Have campers wear pajamas, serve popcorn or hot cocoa, and screen a family-friendly holiday movie. You can even add a discussion or trivia game afterward to make it interactive. It’s a calm activity that’s perfect after a high-energy day.
Holiday camps provide the perfect opportunity to combine fun, learning, and festive cheer. Whether campers are crafting, competing, or sharing stories, these activities foster connection and create memories that extend well beyond the holidays. With just a little creativity, directors can ensure their camp is the highlight of every child’s holiday break.
Visit Shop – The Summer Camp Source for all camp activities, including our Ultimate Activity Guide that includes 1000 camp games!
Previous Post
