Hibernating during the winter is for the bears. When the snow falls and the temperature drops, Brooklynites don’t let the cold weather stop them from having fun.
From ice skating to exploring holiday markets, here are five fun things to do in Brooklyn this winter. So, bundle up and head outdoors to make some winter memories!

Ice skating at Prospect Park
There’s nothing more fun than strapping on some skates and hitting the ice! Prospect Park has a tremendous open-air ice skating rink perfect for beginners and experienced skaters alike. The park’s ice skating rink is open from late November, so you can enjoy it all winter long.
If you’re a pro, try the Barclays Center. Events Center and Aviator Sports are the best places to have fun with your kids.
Sledding at Fort Greene Park
Fort Greene Park is one of the best places in Brooklyn for sledding! The hill is just the right size for a great sledding experience, and you can bring hot chocolate to enjoy after you’re done.
But you can enjoy the joy ride throughout the borough. Various parks, including Prospect Park, Highland Park, McKinley Park, and several others, allow sledding for everyone.
Explore the Bookstores
One of the best things about winter is that it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a good book. And what better place to do that than at one of Brooklyn’s many independent bookstores? We’ve got recommendations for all kinds of readers, from the literary-minded to the thrill-seekers.
For multi-genre lovers, we recommend Unnameable Books in Prospect Heights. The store sells both new and used books. How cool is that?
The Freebird Books and Goods in Cobble Hill is open only on the weekends. But it still has created an active community with book clubs, reading sessions, and events.
If you want to be a part of a bookworm community, check out the Word Bookstores. This Greenpoint shop puts customers’ needs first and stays open late, up until 9 PM!
No matter your book taste, you’ll find something to love at one of Brooklyn’s independent bookstores.
Christmas Lights in Dyker Heights
This neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top Christmas decorations, and it’s worth a visit during the holidays. Since the 1980s, residents have kept the lights up from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Eve.
You can stay in the neighborhood from dusk to 9 PM. Don’t miss this spot because it’s about gorgeous lights, giant snowmen, Santa Claus, and sleighs.
Hot Chocolate at DUMBO
There’s nothing better on a cold winter day than a cup of hot chocolate, and Jacques Torres’ DUMBO storefront is the place to get it. The chef is known as Mr. Chocolate and is the undisputed king of confectionery delight.
After trying hot chocolate, don’t forget to take a bite of chocolate treats and delicious cookies.