Fun for the Whole Family: Activities and Ideas

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AshleyPugh | read

Looking for some fun and engaging activities to do with the kids on the weekend? Look no further! In this article, we've compiled a list of exciting family-friendly ideas that are sure to keep everyone entertained. From exploring the great outdoors to getting crafty and trying out new recipes, there's something here for every member of your family. So grab your loved ones and get ready for a weekend full of laughter, creativity, and quality time together!

a family on a scavenger hunt

Explore the Outdoors

Looking for some family fun in the great outdoors? Look no further than hiking! Take a scenic hike through nature and enjoy quality time together while getting exercise. For younger kids, make it a scavenger hunt by searching for specific plants or animals along the way. There are lots of great ways to explore outdoor play. Hiking and camping are great ways to have fun outdoors as a family!

Camping is another classic outdoor activity that guarantees family fun. Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows over the campfire, tell spooky stories under the stars - there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't forget to bring supplies for crafts and games around the campsite!

a family hiking enjoy a sunset

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Hiking

Looking for fun family activities? Why not try a hiking adventure! Take your kids on a nature scavenger hunt, looking for different types of plants and animals along the way. Or, make it an exciting geocaching adventure where you search for hidden treasures with the help of GPS coordinates. If photography is more your thing, try a trail photography challenge and see who can capture the best shot of wildlife or scenery. These activities are perfect for a day out in nature and will keep everyone entertained while enjoying some fresh air!

mom and son enjoy camping

Photo by Omar Lopez on Unsplash

Camping

After a day out hiking, camping becomes the perfect excuse for some family fun. Gather around the campfire and share your favourite stories while roasting marshmellows. It's an activity that never gets old and is sure to create everlasting memories.

If you're lucky enough to be stargazing on a clear night, bring along a telescope or binoculars for an even closer look at the constellations. It's a great opportunity to teach kids about astronomy while enjoying the beauty of nature.

For those looking for more active outdoor activities, bring along games like cornhole, ladder toss, or frisbee. These classic games are easy to pack and will keep everyone entertained throughout your camping trip. Don't forget to get creative with outdoor crafts too - think leaf printing or rock painting!

a mum and daughter enjoy reading together at a lovely picnic

Photo by Liana Mikah on Unsplash

Picnic

Get ready for a day out with the family filled with fun activities and crafts! For a picnic, why not have a DIY sandwich-making competition? Let everyone choose their own ingredients and see who can create the most delicious sandwich.

After lunch, take an outdoor art session using watercolours, pencils, and paper. Capture beautiful scenes of nature or make abstract works of art together. And when it's time to relax, bring some books for a reading session while lounging on the grass. It's sure to be an enjoyable day that everyone will cherish!

Beach Day

Looking for a fun day out with the family? Head to the beach and compete in a sandcastle building contest! Get creative and see who can build the biggest, most intricate castle. If crafts are more your thing, take a walk along the shore and collect beautiful shells that you can turn into unique souvenirs.

If sports are more your style, grab a ball and challenge each other to a game of beach volleyball or soccer. Not only will it get everyone moving, but it's also an opportunity for some friendly competition. Whatever activities you choose, spending time at the beach is always guaranteed to be a great time with family!

Get Crafty

Looking for a way to spend some quality time with the family that's both fun and productive? Get crafty! DIY projects are a great way to bond while creating something beautiful together. From homemade jewellery to personalised photo albums, there's no shortage of ideas to choose from.

If you're feeling artistic, try painting! It doesn't matter if you're not an expert - grab some brushes and let your imagination run wild. The kids will love getting messy and expressing themselves through art. And who knows - you might just discover a hidden talent along the way!

DIY Projects

Looking for some fun DIY projects to do with the family? Check out these easy and entertaining ideas that will have everyone feeling creative and accomplished in no time!

  • Create a homemade birdhouse: grab some wood scraps, nails, and paint to make a cozy abode for your feathered friends.
  • Make your own bath bombs: mix up some baking soda, citric acid, essential oils, and food colouring to create colourful fizzies for bath time.
  • Build a cardboard castle: cut out towers and walls from sturdy boxes or packaging material to construct an impressive fortress fit for royalty.

These projects are not only enjoyable but also educational as they teach children about construction techniques while allowing them to express their creativity. Get ready for an exciting weekend of crafting with the whole family!

Colourful arts and crafts painting

Photo by Dragos Gontariu on Unsplash

Painting

Looking for a fun and engaging activity to do with your kids this weekend? Try finger painting with edible paint! Not only is it a great way to encourage creativity, but it's also safe for little ones who might be inclined to put their hands in their mouths. And the best part? You can easily make the paint at home using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

If you're looking for something a bit more advanced, try watercolour painting using salt techniques. This method involves sprinkling salt on wet watercolours which creates unique textures and patterns as the salt absorbs the pigment. It's a simple yet effective way to add some extra dimension to your paintings.

For an outdoor activity, consider spray bottle painting! Fill up spray bottles with watered-down acrylic paints and let your kids go wild on large sheets of paper or even outside walls (as long as they're okay with getting messy!). It's a great way to enjoy some fresh air while still being creative together as a family.

children preparing baking ingredients

Photo by Dragos Gontariu on Unsplash

Food and Drink

When it comes to spending quality time with the family, cooking together can be both fun and educational. Assign everyone a different task, from chopping vegetables to stirring the pot, and enjoy a delicious meal made with love. And if you don't feel like cooking, why not have a takeout night? Let each family member choose their favourite restaurant or cuisine and make it a feast for all.

For those who love baking, try hosting your very own bake-off competition at home. Divide into teams or work individually to come up with the tastiest treats in town. Not only will this activity bring out everyone's creativity in the kitchen but also create memories that last forever!

Cooking Together

Get ready for some family fun in the kitchen with these cooking ideas! Make homemade pizza and let everyone choose their own toppings for a personalised pie. Or, set up a create-your-own ice cream sundae bar with different flavours of ice cream and lots of toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, and fruit. And who doesn't love warm cookies? Bake some from scratch together as a family activity that everyone can enjoy (and eat!) afterwards.

Cooking together is not only a great way to bond as a family but also teaches kids essential skills like following directions, measurements, and teamwork. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up something delicious with the whole gang!

family take out food

Photo by Davey Gravy on Unsplash

Takeout Night

When it comes to Takeout Night, why not get the whole family involved in the decision-making process? Voting on which restaurant to order from is a fun way to engage everyone and ensure that everyone's preferences are taken into consideration. Plus, it can be a great opportunity for some healthy competition!

Trying a new cuisine together can also be an exciting way to mix things up on Takeout Night. Whether you opt for Indian, Thai or Ethiopian food, stepping outside of your comfort zone as a family can lead to some delicious discoveries and bonding experiences. And if you're feeling crafty, why not create your own DIY takeout containers? You'll save money and reduce waste while adding an extra touch of personalisation to your mealtime routine.

Bake-off Competition

Choose a signature dish to compete with, set up judging criteria and prizes for the winner, get creative with decorating cupcakes or cookies - it's time for a bake-off competition! This is a fun way to spend quality family time together and unleash your culinary skills. Here are some tips on how to make your bake-off competition enjoyable:

  • Choose your signature dish carefully; it could be anything from brownies to pies.
  • Set up judging criteria that everyone agrees on. You can base it on taste, presentation, creativity or all of these!
  • Offer exciting prizes for the winner such as an ice cream party or movie night.

When you're ready to start baking, let your imagination run wild by getting creative with decorations. Use frosting in different colours or try out new piping techniques – just have fun!

FAQ: PLANNING FAMILY FUN

As a family expert, I understand the importance of spending quality time together as a family. But let's face it, sometimes budgets can be tight. Fortunately, there are many inexpensive but fun family activities that you can do together without breaking the bank. Here are a few ideas to consider: 1. Have a movie night: Pick a family-friendly movie, pop some popcorn, and curl up on the couch together for a cozy night in. 2. Take a hike: Go for a nature walk or hike at a local park or trail. Not only is it free, but it's a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. 3. Host a game night: Bring out the board games or card games and have a fun night of friendly competition. You can even make some homemade snacks or treats to munch on while you play. 4. Create art together: Get creative and make some DIY crafts or artwork together. You can use materials you already have at home or find cheap supplies at a craft store. 5. Visit a local museum: Many museums offer free or discounted admission on certain days of the week. Take advantage of this and spend the day learning and exploring together. 6. Have a picnic: Pack a lunch or some snacks and head to a local park or beach for a fun day in the sun. 7. Go stargazing: Grab a blanket and head outside to look at the stars. You can even download an app like SkyView to help you identify constellations and planets. Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money to have fun with your family. The most important thing is to spend time together and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, try out some of these inexpensive but fun family activities and enjoy the time you have with your loved ones.

Going on a long car trip with your family can be a great way to bond, explore new places, and create lasting memories. However, the long hours on the road can also lead to boredom and restlessness. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained and engaged during the journey. Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of your next family road trip: 1. Plan ahead: Before you hit the road, take some time to plan out your trip. This means figuring out your route, identifying rest stops and attractions along the way, and packing the right supplies. Consider bringing along a travel guide or map to help you navigate and discover new places. 2. Pack entertainment: Make sure to bring along plenty of entertainment for the journey. This could include books, magazines, games, or movies. Consider bringing a portable DVD player or tablet so that you can watch movies on the go. You could also load up on audiobooks or podcasts to listen to together as a family. 3. Play games: There are plenty of classic car games that can help pass the time and keep everyone engaged. Try playing games like "I Spy," "20 Questions," or the license plate game. You could also bring along a deck of cards or a board game to play together as a family. 4. Take breaks: When you're on a long car trip, it's important to take frequent breaks to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. Plan to stop every few hours at rest areas or parks where you can take a walk or have a picnic. This will not only break up the monotony of the journey but also give everyone a chance to move around and burn off some energy. By following these tips, you can ensure that your next family road trip is both fun and memorable. Remember, the journey itself can be just as enjoyable as the destination, especially when you're with loved ones. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready for an adventure on the open road!

As a family expert, I often get asked about some fun activities that families can do together. Spending quality time with your loved ones is crucial, and it doesn't have to be a expensive parties, spending a fortune on toys or complicated. Here are a few ideas that you and your family can enjoy without having to raid your savings fund: 1. Game night - There are tons of board games and card games that are suitable for all ages. You can make it even more fun by adding some snacks or drinks and making it a regular family tradition. 2. Movie night - Pick a family-friendly movie or have each family member choose one and make it a movie marathon. Don't forget the popcorn! 3. Nature hike - Go for a walk in the park or find a nearby hiking trail. It's a great way to get some fresh air, exercise, and explore the great outdoors together. 4. Cooking or baking - Get everyone involved in the kitchen and make a meal or dessert together. Not only is it a fun activity, but it's also a valuable life skill for kids to learn. 5. Creative projects - Whether it's painting, drawing, or crafting, there are many ways to get creative as a family. You can make homemade decorations, cards, or gifts for loved ones. 6. Sports or physical activities - Play a game of basketball, soccer, or frisbee in the backyard or head to a local gym or park for more structured activities. Remember, the most important thing is to spend time together and have fun.

Summer is here, and what better way to enjoy the warm weather than by playing some fun outdoor games with your kids? Not only will it keep them active and healthy, but it's also an excellent way to bond as a family. Here are some of our top picks for outdoor games that your kids will love: 1. Water Balloon Toss: This classic game is perfect for a hot day. All you need are some water balloons and a partner. Stand a few feet apart and toss the balloon back and forth, taking a step back after each successful catch. The game continues until someone drops the balloon or it pops. 2. Tag: Tag is a timeless classic that's perfect for any outdoor setting. The rules are simple: one person is "it," and they chase the other players until they tag someone, who then becomes "it." The game continues until everyone has had a turn or until your kids are too tired to run anymore. 3. Red Light, Green Light: This game is excellent for younger kids. The "stoplight" stands at one end of the yard, and the other players stand at the other end. The stoplight calls out "green light," and the players run towards them. Then, the stoplight calls out "red light," and the players have to freeze. If anyone moves, they're out. 4. Obstacle Course: Create an obstacle course in your backyard with items such as hula hoops, cones, and jump ropes. Time your kids as they make their way through the course, and see who can complete it the fastest. This game is great for building physical skills and coordination. 5. Scavenger Hunt: Create a scavenger hunt with clues hidden around your backyard or nearby park. Make it age-appropriate and challenging enough to keep your kids engaged. The first one to find all the items on the list wins! No matter which game you choose, make sure to join in on the fun and encourage your kids to be active and creative. These outdoor games are a great way to create lasting memories and strengthen your family bond.

Family game night is a great way to bring the whole family together for some fun and quality time. If you're looking for some good board game options that everyone can enjoy, we've got you covered! Here are a few of our top picks: 1. Monopoly - This classic game is always a hit with families. It's easy to learn and can take hours to play, so it's perfect for a long night in. 2. Cluedo - Get your detective skills ready for this mystery-solving board game. With different scenarios and characters to choose from, it's a game that can be played over and over again. 3. Scrabble - If you're looking to exercise your brain and improve your vocabulary, Scrabble is the perfect choice. It's a game that can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels. 4. Settlers of Catan - This strategy game is great for families who enjoy a bit of competition. The game involves building settlements and trading resources, so it's perfect for those who like to plan ahead. 5. Ticket to Ride - If you're a fan of trains and travel, Ticket to Ride is the game for you. Players must build train routes across the country while competing against each other to earn the most points. No matter which game you choose, family game night is sure to be a fun and memorable experience for all. So gather everyone around the table, grab some snacks, and let the games begin!

Movie nights are a great way to spend quality time with your family, and choosing the right movie can make all the difference. There are plenty of options to choose from, so here are some of our top picks for family movie night. 1. The Lion King (1994): This classic Disney movie has it all - memorable songs, heartwarming characters, and a timeless message about family, love, and resilience. 2. The Incredibles (2004): This Pixar masterpiece is a fun and action-packed adventure that both kids and adults will love. It's a great way to introduce your family to the world of superheroes. 3. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001): The first instalment in the beloved Harry Potter series is a must-watch for any family movie night. It's a magical journey that will captivate your family from start to finish. 4. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982): This classic sci-fi movie is a heartwarming tale of friendship and loyalty. It's a great choice for a family movie night that will leave everyone feeling uplifted. 5. Up (2009): This Pixar film is a touching and emotional story about love, loss, and friendship. It's a great choice for a family movie night that will make you laugh, cry, and feel all the feels. 6. Finding Nemo (2003): This underwater adventure is a fun and colourful movie that both kids and adults will enjoy. It's a great choice for a family movie night that will take you on a journey through the ocean and teach valuable lessons about family and perseverance. No matter which movie you choose, family movie night is a great way to bond over shared experiences and create lasting memories. So grab some popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and enjoy a fun night in with your loved ones. Remember, it's not about the movie itself - it's about the time spent together as a family.

I can confidently say that nothing beats bonding over fun activities! Whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt, or uncle, spending quality time with the little ones in your life is essential. It allows you to build deeper relationships, create lifelong memories, and most importantly, have a blast! So, if you're wondering what some fun activities for kids and adults to do together are, read on! 1. Cook and Bake Together: Cooking and baking are perfect activities for kids and adults to do together. You can teach them how to make their favourite meals, and they can help you measure ingredients and mix everything together. Not only is it a fun bonding experience, but it also teaches them essential life skills. 2. Have a Game Night: Whether it's a board game, card game or video game, having a game night is a great way to bond with the family. You can laugh, compete, and have fun together. 3. Plan a Scavenger Hunt: Scavenger hunts are a fun and interactive way to explore your surroundings. You can create clues and challenges, and get the whole family involved in solving them. 4. Create Art Together: Art is a great way to express creativity and bond with your children. You can paint, draw, or even make a craft project together. It's a great way to bond while also creating something special. 5. Plan a Family Movie Night: Movie nights are a classic family activity. You can pick a favoUrite movie, make some popcorn, and snuggle up on the couch for a cozy night in. It's a great way to relax and unwind together as a family. Remember, the most important thing when it comes to spending time with your family is to have fun and enjoy each other's company. It doesn't matter what activity you choose, as long as you're all together and having a good time. So, go ahead and try out some of these fun activities, and create some lasting memories with your loved ones!

a selection of family board games

Photo by Nik Korba on Unsplash

Games and Activities

Get ready for some family fun with these exciting games and activities! Board games are a classic option that never gets old. Gather around the table and enjoy some friendly competition while bonding as a family. If you're looking for something more modern, video games can provide hours of entertainment. Choose age-appropriate options that everyone can join in on.

Want to get outside? Try organising a scavenger hunt! It's an excellent way to explore your surroundings while working together as a team. And when it's time to wind down, there's nothing better than movie night! Pick out a film everyone will love, grab some snacks, and settle in for an enjoyable evening at home.

Board Games

When it comes to family fun, board games are a timeless classic. Whether you're looking for some friendly competition or just want to spend quality time together as a family, there's nothing quite like gathering around the table and playing a game. Here are some of our top picks for board games that the whole family can enjoy:

  • Classic board games like Monopoly and Scrabble
  • Strategy games like Settlers of Catan
  • Cooperative games like Pandemic. For older kids.

These three types of board games offer different styles of gameplay, so you're sure to find something that everyone will love. Classic board games are great for all ages and provide hours of entertainment, while strategy games challenge players' critical thinking skills. Cooperative games encourage teamwork and collaboration as players work together towards a common goal.

There are also lots of fun card-based games that are fun for the whole family like Exploding Kittens for example.

Exploding Kittens Card game

So why not break out one of these classics this weekend and make some memories with your loved ones?

a couple play video games

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Video Games

If you're looking for a fun and engaging way to spend time with your family, video games are an excellent option. Party video games like Mario Party offer hours of entertainment and friendly competition for both kids and adults alike. On the other hand, adventure video games like Minecraft or Lego Worlds provide exciting puzzles and challenges with kid-friendly themes that can keep the whole family engaged.

For those who want to get moving while gaming, fitness-focused systems such as Wii Fit or Just Dance are perfect options. These games offer a fun way to stay active while playing together as a family. With so many different types of video games available, there's something for everyone when it comes to finding ways to have some good old-fashioned family fun!

family on a scavenger hunt

Photo by Jessica Rockowitz on Unsplash

Scavenger Hunt

Looking for a fun and engaging way to spend time with your family this weekend? Why not try a scavenger hunt! Whether you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors or stay inside, there are plenty of options for all ages.

For nature lovers, consider a nature-themed scavenger hunt in a nearby park or nature preserve. Create a list of items like leaves, rocks, and flowers that your family can search for while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

If you prefer staying indoors, an indoor scavenger hunt with clues around the house can be just as exciting. Hide small treasures throughout the house and create clever riddles or puzzles as clues to help your kids find them.

Finally, if you want to explore your neighbourhood while having fun with photography skills - consider organising a neighborhood photo scavenger hunt where kids have to take pictures of specific things on a list. It's an excellent way to get outside into fresh air without traveling too far from home!

Whatever type of scavenger hunt you choose- it's sure to be hours full of smiles and laughter!

a tray of popcorn packets ready to serve

Photo by Corina Rainer on Unsplash

Movie Night

Bring back the nostalgia with a family movie night featuring classic movies from your childhood that you loved. Share these timeless stories with your kids and see them enjoy it just as much as you did when you were their age.

Take the movie night outside by setting up a projector in your backyard or at a park, complete with blankets and snacks under the stars. It's an experience that everyone will love, and it's perfect for warm summer nights.

For a themed movie night based on your child's favourite characters, let them choose what to watch and get creative with some fun decorations around the house. They'll be delighted to spend quality time watching their favourite movies while surrounded by all things related to their beloved characters.

a young family are spending time together

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Spending time with family doesn't have to be boring - there are plenty of ways to have fun together! So go ahead and plan something fun for your next family day, and make some memories that will last a lifetime!

AshleyPugh Written by
AshleyPugh
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Ashley Pugh is one of the Co-Founders of Familydaysout.com and has been committed to writing family related content since 2008. There isn't much about family attractions that Ashley doesn't know, after visiting hundreds of them worldwide over the last 20 years.

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