Cold Weather Favors Group Activities
Ideas for keeping your community engaged during the cold weather.
As the cold season settles in, residents tend to “hibernate.” Because of this, property managers and operators must devise ways to keep them engaged and connected. During wintertime, group activities become more prevalent, which help combat the winter blues and strengthen the sense of belonging and community.
Having the amenities that support group activities can help build the community and foster connections among residents. Here is a list of some of the preferred activities during the year’s colder months.
Book clubs
Book clubs are no new thing. When it gets colder outside, reading a good book beside a fireplace is one of the most enriching activities you can do. Communities with libraries, reading rooms and dining rooms are perfect for hosting book club gatherings. Participants can share recommendations, explore various genres and even invite local authors for discussions or readings. Book clubs create an intimate setting, perfect for deep conversations and connections, making it an ideal winter activity.
At the Four Seasons Private Residences Coconut Grove in the historic Miami neighborhood, crafted by designer Michele Bonan, the lounge with built-in bookshelves and cozy seating offers the space for an intimate gathering. Image courtesy of CMC Group and Fort Partners 
The Glasshouse at 547 West 47th Street in Hell’s Kitchen is an impressive example of reading space created by design firm Concrete. Image courtesy of Evan Joseph Photography 
The reading area is set up in a glass-enclosed library with a fireplace, living room and coworking table. Image courtesy of Evan Joseph Photography 
The design of the space makes it suitable for both indulging quietly in a good book and for meeting up with book club participants to recap the latest read. Image courtesy of Evan Joseph Photography 
Residents at 77 Greenwich have access to the Cloud Club, a penthouse-level suite of amenities including an expansive lounge and a private dining room with professional chef’s kitchen, perfect for book and cooking clubs. Members of both clubs have also used the 7,500 square feet of outdoor space across three separate landscaped outdoor terraces featuring several barbecue grills with dining spaces.
Cooking clubs
A delightful and delicious way for residents to come together, cooking clubs are a great way to socialize. After all, the kitchen is the soul of the home. These clubs often focus on collaborative cooking sessions where participants prepare meals together, fostering teamwork and creativity. There are so many things to do in the kitchen—from exploring seasonal recipes to learning new cooking techniques. Competitions such as “the mystery ingredient” challenge are less competitive and more delicious. Offering a cooking area for your residents will help enhance their culinary skills and create opportunities for social interaction and cultural exchange as participants share their favorite dishes from different backgrounds.
Film nights
Movie nights are perfect for any evening, but there’s something special about watching classic films or blockbusters when “the weather outside is frightening.” Recreation centers can host screenings, complete with popcorn and hot cocoa.
Outdoor cinemas represent the next-level watching experience, one not limited to summer. They are adapted for the cold season as well. Communities can set up outdoor screens, or have them built from the get-go, enabling residents to watch movies under the stars while bundled up in blankets. Providing warm beverages and snacks enhances the experience, increasing resident satisfaction.
Front & York’s outdoor theater was designed by architect Morris Adjmi to host screenings all year round. It is sheltered by a trellis and warmed by integrated heat lanterns and a fireplace. Image courtesy of Williams New York 
“In the midst of COVID, we were influenced to incorporate access to the outdoors and great light and air. At 96+Broadway, we designed a year-round retreat with an outdoor kitchen that is perfect for preparing food and hot drinks to enjoy while viewing the open air even in the winter,” said Van Nguyen, partner at JVP Development. Image courtesy of Evan Joseph 
Penthouse North at 212 West 72nd Street features a private foyer staircase that leads to a rooftop terrace complete with and outdoor movie theater, hot tub, kitchen and lounge area. Image courtesy of Recent Spaces
Run clubs, fitness clubs
There are those residents who simply cannot stand still for too long. Staying active doesn’t have to be a solitary activity, though. Run clubs are becoming more popular, as they offer a great way to maintain fitness while building camaraderie. Local parks and community tracks serve as meeting points. These clubs often include different levels of runners, from beginners to experienced athletes, promoting inclusiveness. More so, these clubs can organize themed runs and charity events, promoting health and community spirit at the same time.
When outdoor activities are discouraged by snowfall and freezing temperatures, offering indoor exercise classes at local gyms or community centers can substitute this need to stay active and in touch with others. Yoga, Zumba and aquatics are just a few ways for residents to maintain their fitness levels while meeting new people.
DYI clubs
Some residents are really creative and enjoy hands-on activities during the cold season. DYI clubs are perfect for them. They can be set up in community centers where participants can work on various projects such as crafting holiday decorations, making homemade gifts, or even taking on more serious projects such as home improvement tasks. These DYI sessions encourage collaboration, allowing members to learn new skills from one another. It’s a great communal approach that makes crafting more enjoyable and strengthens friendships through shared accomplishments.
What type of clubbing do your residents like?
