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11 fun winter activities in Enschede

It is already mid-winter and the holidays are just around the corner. To get into the cosy winter spirit, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy. Whether you prefer heading out or staying indoors, these are the best winter activities in and around Enschede!

Photo of Marit
Marit
A church lit up with a laser projection.
Enschede Lights Up Festival - Photo by Emiel Muijderman

1. Ice skating

The perfect winter activity is, of course, ice skating. Whether it is freezing outside or not, in December you can always lace up your skates on the ice rink on the Oude Markt during Winters Enschede. Bring your friends, skate a few laps and warm up afterwards with a drink in the café! For true ice-skating fanatics, IJsbaan Twente is the place to be. On the 400-metre rink, you can really go all out!

2. Oude Markt

Speaking of the Oude Markt, did you know you can still enjoy a drink on the terrace in winter? With heated terraces, cosy blankets and hot drinks, you won't get cold! Order a hot chocolate while enjoying the charming view of the ice rink, festive lights and Christmas decorations.

3. Enschede Lights Up

For four evenings in December, you can enjoy the most beautiful light projections in the centre of Enschede. At Tourist Info Enschede, you can pick up the free route booklet, which is also the starting point of the walking route. Along the route, you will discover beautiful light shows, each with its own story or theme, at various locations in the city centre. This year, Enschede Lights Up takes place from 12 to 15 December, between 5.00 PM and 10.00 PM.

4. Christmas dinner

Do you also find it such a pity that many friends and housemates head back home for the holidays? Then why not organise a Christmas dinner with all your friends and housemates here in Enschede? Ask everyone to bring a dish and decorate your house with lights and decorations. Don't forget to play Mariah Carey and throw on a cheesy Christmas jumper and your evening is complete!

5. Sinterklaas or Secret Santa

In the Netherlands, Sinterklaas is a traditional holiday that is extensively celebrated. Playing a Sinterklaas game with housemates or friends is a nice activity for an evening of fun. In this game, everyone brings three wrapped presents. You roll a dice to determine whether you steal, swap or give away a gift. Would you prefer something less chaotic? Then stick to Secret Santa!

6. Christmas shows at Wilminktheater

Fancy a cultural night out? Then the Wilminktheater is the place to be. In winter, there are lots of great Christmas performances there. From traditional shows and musicals to Christmas concerts and comedy shows, there is something for everyone! Unfortunately, many shows are in Dutch, but there are also nice performances that are not language-dependent!

7. Intratuin

Okay, a trip to Intratuin may not sound too exciting at first, but especially during the winter months it is really worth it! The shop is fully decorated in Christmas style, including beautiful decorations, Christmas trees and lights. It’s the perfect place to get inspired and buy Christmas decorations or a mini Christmas tree for your room. You can even book a Christmas high tea or grab an oliebol (Dutch deep-fried pastry) at the stand outside!

8. Christmas market

If you really want to get into the Christmas spirit (or still need to do some Christmas shopping 😉), visit one of the many cosy Christmas markets near Enschede. With all kinds of stalls full of handmade items, Christmas gifts and delicious warm snacks, it is the perfect activity on a day off. Wondering which Christmas markets are a must-visit? Then check out our article on them.

9. Christmas movie marathon

During a cold, dark evening, there is nothing better than watching Christmas movies. Gather your friends, get snacks and hot chocolate (or bake your own Christmas cookies) and put on your favourite Christmas movies. Classics like Home Alone and The Polar Express are a must, of course!

10. Ice Sculpture festival

Each winter, the Ice Sculpture Festival showcases stunning ice creations, each centred around a different theme. Unfortunately, this year the Ice Sculpture Festival no longer takes place in Zwolle, but in Biddinghuizen, but that doesn't make it any less worthwhile. If you have a day off and don't mind travelling a bit, be sure to visit this unique event!

11. Skiing and snowboarding

For winter sports fans, the ultimate winter activity is probably skiing or snowboarding in the snow. Good news, because just 2.5 hours away from Enschede you'll find Winterberg: perfect for a weekend getaway! If you don't have the time or budget to go to Winterberg, visit one of the indoor ski halls in the Netherlands instead. And if you really want to stay close by, head to Rutbeek. No, not for water skiing, but for real skiing! Here you will find an artificial slope where you can ski and snowboard or take lessons, regardless of whether there is snow.

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