CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Families staying close to home this winter break won’t have to worry about running out of things to do. A comprehensive guide highlights a wide range of activities, outings and events designed to keep kids active, entertained and learning throughout the holiday season in Champaign-Urbana and beyond.

Winter break for many local school districts begins after dismissal on Friday, Dec. 19, marking the longest stretch away from the classroom until summer. The guide pulls together free and low-cost options, indoor and outdoor fun, and special seasonal events that appeal to kids of all ages.

Below is a snapshot of must-do winter break activities, along with a few additional Champaign-Urbana favorites families may want to add to their list.

Winter break things to do in Champaign-Urbana

  1. Visit local libraries

    • Urbana Free Library, Champaign Public Library, Mahomet, Tolono and Rantoul libraries

    • Check out books, movies, board games and, in some locations, equipment like 3D printers

    • Free, with holiday closures on select days

  2. Get outdoors and explore nature

    • Champaign County Forest Preserves, Allerton Park, Busey Woods and neighborhood trails

    • Winter lights displays at Allerton Park and Lake of the Woods

    • Free and open daily during daylight hours

  3. Explore the University of Illinois campus

    • Walk Campustown, shop local retailers and enjoy restaurants with fewer students around

    • Self-guided architecture and history tours available

    • Cost varies by activity

  4. Go on a holiday lights adventure

    • Neighborhood displays across Champaign-Urbana and Central Illinois

    • Some larger attractions charge a per-car fee

    • Best enjoyed after dark, early in the evening

  5. Ice skating

    • University of Illinois Ice Arena

    • Public skate times vary by day

    • $6 for ages 4 and up, free for ages 3 and under; skate rental $3

  6. Indoor swimming

    • Urbana Indoor Aquatic Center or Stephens Family YMCA

    • Special winter break hours available

    • Day passes and memberships offered

  7. Indoor play and recreation centers

    • Leonhard Recreation Center, Martens Center and Urbana Health and Wellness Center

    • Open gym, indoor playgrounds, pickleball, tracks and more

    • Day passes available

  8. Take a family day trip

    • Miller Park Zoo in Bloomington-Normal

    • Casey, Illinois, home of the “Big Things”

    • Budget-friendly and winter-friendly outings

  9. Attend special winter break events

    • Museum nights, makerspace programs, solstice events and holiday crafts

    • Noon Year’s Eve celebrations at libraries and recreation centers

    • Seasonal skating events at Skateland Savoy

Additional Champaign-Urbana ideas to add to your list

  1. Krannert Center for the Performing Arts

    • Family-friendly performances, rehearsals and lobby activities during select dates

  2. Orpheum Children’s Science Museum

    • Hands-on exhibits and interactive learning perfect for cold days

  3. Spurlock Museum

    • Free admission and kid-friendly exhibits exploring global cultures

  4. Local movie theaters

    • Catch new releases or matinees during quieter daytime hours

  5. Baking or cooking together

    • Visit the Urbana or Champaign Farmers Market (winter sessions) for ingredients

    • Turn a snowy day into a hands-on learning experience at home

Families are encouraged to check schedules ahead of time, bundle up when heading outdoors and take advantage of the quieter pace around town while school is out.