With the change in the season, different opportunities for things to do around Hudson are opening up. From holiday based activities to simple things out in the snow, there are different activities that our area has to offer during the colder months. If spending time in the cold isn’t something that sounds appealing, indoor activities are also very abundant and given as an opportunity in different ways, but the majority of the unique experiences and activities are found outside, highlighting the winter season.
Snow is not something that a lot of people like, but for sophomore Lucy Bechtel, the first sight of snow is exciting as it means the ski season is just around the corner. “I love to ski, I have been doing it since I was in first grade. Every year I look forward to it, especially in the summer months.” With Boston Mills and Brandywine just a quick drive away, skiing and snowboarding is a common activity for teenagers in Hudson. “It’s the perfect way to wind down after a long day at school,” she says, “and it’s an excuse to get away from homework for a little while and spend time with my friends.”
Sophomore Molly Mclnerney agrees. “My favorite thing to do in the winter is snowboard,” she explains, “but for the people who don’t snowboard or ski I would recommend snow tubing.” Instead of suiting up in ski boots, people can opt for the classic snow boot, head to Brandywine, and hop on an inflatable tube. The resort offers the opportunity to snow tube and it has become very popular among people of all ages. It’s a fun and easy way to spend time outside in the snow with friends and family.
Driving is something that teenagers have the liberty of doing, for many students it is still new. Given the freedoms that driving opens up, it becomes a lot easier to do things in the winter time. Sophomore Caitlin Petrosino is a new driver. “Now that I have my license, I don’t have to depend on my parents for rides everywhere. I can do so many more activities without having to worry about getting a ride.” Being able to drive gives way to the opportunity of doing different things and being able to spend more time with friends. “I am looking forward to getting hot chocolate and then walking downtown looking at the Christmas lights. Just little things like that with my friends.”
Even if you are just looking forward to the simple things to do this winter, there are still many options. Sledding is easy to plan as public parks like Hudson Springs have hills that, when covered in snow, are perfect for the activity. A walk in the snow is also a great way to appreciate the season. “My favorite thing to do in winter is to take a walk while it’s snowing, or really just anything outdoors,” Bechtel says.
Coming up on the holiday month of December, there are various activities located right downtown that have become a tradition in many families. With a visit to the gazebo where Krampus and Saint Nicolas will greet guests, the Hudson “Christkindlmarkt” is a unique way to spend time outdoors and takes place December 8-10th. Another festive event downtown is The Holiday Fireworks, taking place on December 2nd. It’s a special holiday season firework display hosted by the Hudson Community Foundation.
For the runners, there is the Frosty Five & Mistletoe Mile in which participants are given the option to walk or run 1-5 miles. Taking place on Christmas Eve, the course of the run stretches to different parts of Hudson. “I participated in the Frosty Five Mile last year and ran with a few of my friends. I can’t wait to do it again this year,” says Bechtel. This is another example of an event right downtown put on by members in our community. Not only is it a way to get outside and enjoy the winter season, but it’s also time spent with the people of our community, which is very valuable.
“If I could recommend one thing for people to do in winter it would be to go ice skating, it’s super fun,” explains Mclnerney. The popular Kent Skates rink is just a twenty minute drive away. No prior experience is needed to get on the ice with friends and family as it’s easy to learn. “It’s easy to pick up on and once you get the hang of it it’s hard to not have a good time.”
Though the cold weather that winter brings is not a favorite among a lot of individuals, these activities give way to the chance to have a good time in the upcoming months. It’s easy to try something new and it could end up changing one’s opinion on the season. Going out and participating in events held by our community is always something that is easy and fun to do, and Hudson makes doing this very easy. The surrounding towns also bring activities that many people do that have turned winter into their favorite season. It’s all about what people choose to do in their free time that can affect their ability to enjoy the season.
