Winter Olympic Games You Can Play at Home

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One of the best parts of the Winter Olympics is how quickly it pulls everyone in. You sit down to watch one event… and suddenly the whole family is debating scores, cheering finishes, and wondering if they could maybe try that at home.  The answer is yes — just on a much simpler, safer scale. You don’t need snow, special equipment, or a full afternoon free. A few easy activities can turn Olympic watching into something interactive and memorable — especially when paired with easy snacks and cozy drinks.

Sock Speed Skating

This one is always a hit and takes zero prep.

How to play:

Everyone puts on socks
Use a hallway or open room
Race from one end to the other
Time each skater or just cheer them on

Hardwood or tile floors work best, and falling dramatically at the finish line is optional (but strongly encouraged).

Curling

Curling is perfect for at-home play — slow, strategic, and very entertaining.

What you need:

Paper plates or plastic lids
A broom or pool noodle
Tape to mark a target on the floor

Take turns sliding your “stones” toward the target. Bonus fun if you play while waiting for popcorn to finish popping.

Snowball Toss

This is ideal for younger kids and works in any space.

Supplies:

Cotton balls, white socks balled up, soft foam balls, or wool dryer balls
Laundry basket or bowl

Stand back and toss “snowballs” into the target. Keep score or just play until the hot cocoa is ready.

Living Room Ski Jump

Turn one small jump into a full Olympic moment.

How to set it up:

Use painter’s tape to mark a starting line
Jump forward as far as possible
Measure with footsteps or a measuring tape

Let everyone take two turns and announce distances like a real commentator. The more elaborate the better. Give the kids “Olympic names”, comment on their style, and declare new World Records. Let the laughs begin!

Biathlon Relay (Real Life Edition)

This combines movement with focus — just like the real event.

Set up a simple course:

Run to a spot
Toss a snowball into a bowl
Run back and tag the next person

This activity goes especially well with a snack break afterward — think trail mix “biathlon fuel” or snowball treats from your Olympic snack spread.

The Medal Ceremony

Don’t skip this part — it’s where the memories stick.

Make it special with:

Printable or DIY medals are good. I also like these from Amazon.
A step stool or couch cushions for a podium
Olympic-style music (or dramatic humming)

Serve gold, silver, and bronze snacks during the ceremony to tie it all together.

Opening Night Olympic Tradition

If you want one simple rhythm to repeat during the Games:

Choose one night for activities
Serve easy Olympic snacks (popcorn, cocoa, snowballs)
Play two or three games
Watch one event together

That’s it. No elaborate planning required.

Keep It Light, Keep It Fun

The goal isn’t competition — it’s connection.

Some nights will be energetic. Others will be slower, quieter, and snack-heavy. Both count. These small, playful moments are what turn the Winter Olympics into something your family remembers long after the closing ceremony. Our children only get one childhood, let’s make some amazing memories together while it lasts. I know from experience that it doesn’t have to be fancy to be something that becomes a lasting memory. They may even want to share these activities with their children one day.