Let’s face it, it can be tough to come up with fun things to do on the weekend, especially when your kids get bored easily and have more energy bottled up than an energy drink. But don’t worry– we’ve got you covered!
Whether it is a rainy day or a sunny one, here is a list of activities that will keep children of all ages and parents entertained throughout the weekend. From a visit to the park to hide and seek around the backyard, there’s something for the whole family or even if you are a single dad/mom.
So if you are busy during the week and want to spend your free time having the time of your life with your kiddo, get ready for some fun-filled days and nights!
18 things to do this weekend for never-ending fun
The little kids are free from school and surely they will need something to keep them occupied. But we know that organizing activities may feel like Charlie and Phil from Daddy Day Care trying to keep the kids busy during the whole day. That’s why we have created a list of 18 family fun activities to do!
Spoiler alert: it doesn’t matter if you prefer to stay at home or like the great outdoors, we have everything for every type of family.
9 Fun things to do on the weekend at home
1. Movie night
One great way to spend quality time together as a family is to have a movie night. You can make it extra special by popping popcorn, making some fun snacks, and snuggling up on the couch together.
If the weather is nice, you could decorate the backyard and move the film night outside. Also, if you want to put in a little more effort, you could make film-related customs.
Check out the best movies to watch with your kids here.
2. Picnic lunch in the backyard
Pack up some sandwiches, snacks, and drinks, and enjoy a leisurely lunch al fresco. You could also grill some hot dogs and let the kiddies cook some smores!
3. Play their favorite games
Play capture the flag in the garden, charade, Twister, musical chairs… The possibilities are endless when it comes to at-home games! Ask your kids what they want to play with and organize a schedule.
4. Get creative with arts and crafts
Make some paintings, sculptures, or collages using whatever materials you have around the house. Don’t forget to hang your kids’ artwork after it! It would make them feel proud.
5. Bake some delicious treats together
One of our favorite and yummy fun family activities! It's a hands-on activity that lets them be creative, it's a chance to teach them about measuring and following directions, and it's a delicious way to spend some quality time together!
Plus, there are so many different recipes out there that you're sure to find one that your little ones will love. Whether you're making cookies, cupcakes, or a simple cake, baking is always a fun weekend activity for the whole family.
Check out easy recipes to do with your kids here.
6. Organize a talent show
Talent shows are great for building confidence in kids! Encourage them to do whatever they want: from magic tricks and singing to playing music and dancing, the sky is the limit.
Help them with their performances, let them be as creative as they want, and, of course, don’t forget you should be part of the show too.
Say goodbye to stage fright!
7. Do a science experiment!
If your child is a little geek, this activity is for you! You could find some ideas on DIY YouTube tutorials and get the materials you need for a scientific weekend. Here is a list of our fave experiments:
- Make your own slime! All you need is some glue, water, and Borax powder. Add a little food coloring for extra fun.
- Make homemade lava lamps with vegetable oil, water, and food coloring. You'll also need some Alka-Seltzer tablets to create the lava effect.
- Build a balloon rocket! Attach a straw to a balloon, blow up the balloon, and let it go. The balloon will fly around the room powered by the air from the straw.
- Create a simple circuit with a battery, some copper wire, and a small light bulb. You can use any kind of battery ( AA, AAA, or even a Nine Volt) and any kind of light bulb ( LED, incandescent, etc).
- Make volcanoes with baking soda and vinegar. You can use any kind of container for this experiment, just be sure to add the baking soda and vinegar in equal parts.
You could even organize an event, put them into different teams, build a point system, and give a prize to the winning team!
8. Read a book
Reading books with children is a great way to spend time together while also teaching them new things. It can be a bonding experience for both the parent and child, and it's a good way to help your kid develop their reading skills. You could also tell original stories. Get creative!
9. Have a pool party!
Take your inflatable pool to the garden, a few toys, and get ready for a day under the sun splashing around with your kiddos!
Remember to get you reusable swim diapers if your kiddie is not potty trained yet. Believe us, you want to avoid a stinky accident underwater!
9 Fun things to do on the weekend outdoors
1. Go to family-friendly events
One of the best ways to spend quality time with your kids is by taking them to family-friendly events. This not only gives you a chance to have some fun, but it also allows your kids to socialize and learn new things. You could attend a live music or film festival for families, go to a carnival, or go to holiday community activities during Easter, Spring Break, Halloween, or Christmas.
2. Visit a local museum or art gallery
Our most cultural family fun activity! Most museums and galleries offer free admission for children, making this a great way to spend an afternoon. If you’re worried about your kids getting bored, look for kid-friendly tours or activities that are offered at the venue. There are also events inside the expo you could sign up for if you want to have more things to do.
3. Explore a nearby town or city
There's always a new location to discover during the weekends, even if it's just somewhere close to home! Go out of your neighborhood and plan a special day in a different town. Don’t forget to do some shopping and buy souvenirs!
4. Go camping
Camping is one of the best weekend activities for kids because it gets them away from technology and into nature. It also teaches them how to be independent and self-reliant. Additionally, camping is a great opportunity for bonding with family and friends.
You could teach them how to build a fire, go fishing, and grill food. Just remember to research a camping-friendly park nearby!
5. Go to the pool or the beach
For all the little swimmers out there, this is a family fun activity you can’t skip! This is an ideal plan for kids of all ages that will allow them to have so much fun while burning a lot of energy. This is good for their health and it helps them to stay fit!
Important: don’t forget to bring a reusable swim diaper with you if your baby is not potty trained! Believe us, it will save you from a headache.
6. Walk around the park
What is more chilling than enjoying quality time at the park on a Sunday afternoon?
Most families love to go to the park since children can run around and explore while they walk and relax. There are also many events for kids at the parks to keep them entertained! You could also organize some games like playing catch or hide and seek.
7. Go on a hike
Get some fresh air and explore the great outdoors with a nature hike. This is a great way to teach your kiddies about plants and animals, and it’s also a good option to get some exercise. You can take little ones of all ages to this plan and we are sure the whole family will love it!
8. Go to the theater
Most families love going to the city theater to watch a play. This is because it's a great chance for kiddos and parents to see a live performance, and it's also a great opportunity to learn about different cultures.
You could also go to a children's film festival event. Let your kiddos pick the film, they will love to watch their favorite characters on a big screen. This will be an enriching bond experience for the family.
9. Enroll them in classes
Do your kiddos love to swim, dance, or draw? There is a class for everything and we are sure they will enjoy it. Ask them what their favorite activities are, search for a learning center, and enroll them!
Ready for all the fun?
So there you have it – a life-long list of weekend activities for kids and the whole family. Just pick your favorite one, or mix and match depending on what strikes your fancy. And if we missed something, let us know in the comments below. We’re always looking for more things to keep things exciting!