With two full weeks off from school for most local districts, winter break can feel both exciting and a little daunting — especially if you’re staying close to home. The good news? You don’t have to travel far to fill those days with memorable, affordable family fun.
From snowy outdoor adventures to cozy indoor activities, this Winter Break Family Fun Guide highlights options for all ages, interests, and budgets across the Sebago Lake region. Pick one big outing, sprinkle in a few simple ones, and let the rest of the break unfold naturally.
Never Miss Local Family Fun
Get weekly kid-friendly events, trail guides, and seasonal activities delivered every Thursday morning.
Outdoor Winter Adventures
Snow Tubing at Seacoast Adventure (Windham)
A favorite for quick winter thrills. Opening is weather-dependent, with a tentative opening date of December 26.
👉 Snow park details & policies:
https://www.seacoastadventure.com/winter/snow-park-policies-2/
Skiing & Snowboarding at Pleasant Mountain
Pleasant Mountain is open every day during break except Christmas Day (12/25). Rentals and lessons are available, making this a great option for beginners and seasoned skiers alike.
👉 Tickets & rentals:
https://shop.pleasantmountain.com/l/lift-tickets-2/c/lift-tickets
Sledding Hills Near Sebago Lake
Nothing beats a classic sledding day. From gentle hills for little kids to steeper runs for big energy, this guide rounds up local favorites.
Outdoor Ice Skating
Town rinks and community skating spots are opening as conditions allow. Always check for official “open” notices before heading out.
Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing
Local trails are snow-covered right now, making them ideal for snowshoes or XC skis. Many libraries lend snowshoes for free — a great low-cost way to try something new.
Winter Walking
A short walk can reset the whole day. Bundle up and explore a local trail for fresh air and quiet winter scenery.
👉 Find a family-friendly trail:
https://lakeregionkidscalendar.com/trails/
Indoor Activities (Perfect for Cold or Snowy Days)
Indoor Pools
- Westbrook Community Center: Open swim on 12/26 and 1/2, just $4 per person
👉 https://secure.rec1.com/ME/westbrook-me/catalog - Colonial Mast Pool (Naples): $9.50/adult, $8/child, with more availability during break
Roller Skating at Happy Wheels (Westbrook)
Open daily 1–4 PM from Dec 26–Jan 4
- $12 admission
- $6 skate rentals
👉 https://skatehappywheels.com/
Bowling at Junction Bowl (Gorham)
A classic, all-ages outing.
- $35 per lane per hour
- $4 per person shoe rental
👉 https://jctbowl.com/gorham-junction-bowl-bowling
Children’s Museum (Portland)
Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Limited hours on New Year’s Eve for their indoor beach party.
- $20 per person
👉 https://www.kitetails.org/event-program-calendar
Mr. Drew & His Animals Too – Education Center (Poland)
Open during winter break and always a hit with animal-loving kids.
- $10 per person admission
👉 https://www.mrdrewandhisanimalstoo.com/education-center
Planetarium Shows (Portland)
A calm, educational outing that feels special.
- $8 per person
👉 https://usm.maine.edu/southworth-planetarium/
Simple & Low-Cost Favorites
Library Visits
Many local libraries are hosting special storytimes, STEM activities, crafts, and puzzle events during break. Even a simple stop to pick out new books can feel like an adventure.
Toddler Open Play
Several toddler playgroups continue meeting throughout winter break — perfect for burning energy and keeping routines intact.
Nature Playgroup Meetups
There are three Lake Region Nature Playgroup meetups during these two weeks, including sledding, playground time, and a trail walk.
👉 Join the group for details:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/lakeregionnatureplaygroup
Seasonal & Holiday Fun
See Christmas Lights
Many light walks and drive-through displays stay open through New Year’s — or even longer.
Noon Year’s Eve Celebrations
Celebrate early with kid-friendly countdowns, crafts, and balloons — no late bedtime required.
Low-Key Winter Break Fun
Not every day needs a big plan. Mixing one “big” outing with a few simple, at-home moments helps the whole week feel balanced — especially during that post-Christmas stretch when no one quite remembers what day it is.
Playing with new toys still feels exciting, even days after they’re opened. Baking cookies together turns an ordinary afternoon into something special. And a movie night — whether at home or at Smitty’s (Windham) or the Magic Lantern (Bridgton) — can be just as memorable as any big adventure.
Sometimes the easiest plans are the ones everyone enjoys most.
A Final Thought
Winter break doesn’t need to be packed or expensive to be memorable. A sled ride before lunch, a library stop in the afternoon, or a quiet winter walk can be just as meaningful as the big adventures.
Check the calendar often — new events are added daily — and give yourself permission to keep things simple. Sometimes the best winter memories are the ones that leave space to just be together.
Be sure to subscribe to our weekly email newsletter so you don’t miss what’s new for family fun near Sebago Lake in 2026
Leave a Reply