The Badge Archive

GSUSA – Winter Holiday Party

The Winter Holiday Party is a Girl Scout tradition that embraces the magic of winter and snow without focusing on any specific holiday—making it an event that welcomes scouts from all backgrounds, cultures, and religions. Held during December, a time when families are often busy with their own holiday traditions, this celebration is a stress-free gathering where scouts can enjoy friendship, seasonal activities, and simple joys.

While some troops incorporate badge-earning elements—such as the Brownie Making Friends badge, Junior Social Butterfly, or Ambassador Dinner Party—others simply use this as a time to relax and have fun together before the new year. Whether or not a badge is attached, the Winter Holiday Party is about building connections, embracing the season, and sharing laughter.

Winter Fun for Elementary Scouts

Younger scouts thrive with crafts, hands-on activities, and tasty treats. Here are ideas for an engaging winter party:

  • Hot Chocolate Bar: Scouts experiment with different mix-ins, such as marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, cinnamon, or sprinkles.
  • Snowflake Cutting Craft: A simple and satisfying activity where scouts fold and cut paper snowflakes to decorate the space or take home.
  • Holiday Treat Potluck: Each scout brings a favorite winter snack to share (store-bought or simple homemade treats, if allowed).
  • Winter Wonderland Relay Games: Fun indoor or outdoor relay races with “snowball” throws (cotton balls or small soft balls), mitten challenges, or snowflake scavenger hunts.
  • Cozy Storytime & Friendship Circle: Scouts share winter memories, talk about friendship, and sing Girl Scout songs.

Winter Fun for Teen Scouts

Older scouts appreciate interactive challenges, creativity, and social moments. Here’s how to make their Winter Holiday Party memorable:

  • Advanced Snowflake Craft: Instead of simple cutting, teens can create intricate snowflakes using watercolor paints, coffee filters, or geometric paper designs.
  • Hot Chocolate Bar with a Twist: Give teens options like flavored syrups, whipped topping designs, and themed cocoa creations for a fun food experiment.
  • Winter-Themed Icebreaker or Trivia Game: Play team-based winter-themed trivia or interactive “Would You Rather” winter edition.
  • DIY Ornament or Winter Decoration Craft: Scouts create personalized troop keepsakes that represent their year together.
  • Teen Social Challenge: Let scouts take the lead on planning or hosting a mini “Winter Dinner Party,” scavenger hunt, or other group activity that encourages leadership and bonding.

The Winter Holiday Party is about bringing scouts together for a festive, cozy, and joyful experience—no matter their age, background, or traditions. Whether crafting, sipping cocoa, playing games, or simply enjoying each other’s company, this seasonal celebration strengthens friendships and spreads winter cheer! ❄️

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For More Fun Ideas and Plans

for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive Facebook community for Daisy, Brownie, and Junior Girl Scout leaders. Whether you’re seeking advice, fresh ideas, or meeting plans, you’re in the right place! Let’s inspire each other, share our experiences, and make every troop meeting a memorable adventure.

for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Scouts

Join the Girl Scout Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Leader Help Facebook Group
(Not an official GSUSA Group)

This is a supportive community for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador Girl Scout leaders. This group offers solutions to keep older scouts engaged in scouting amidst their busy lives. Share strategies, tackle challenges, and exchange ideas for fun, meaningful activities that resonate with teens and build lasting connections.

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Tia Kennard