Winter Retreat Games, Activities, and Messages
Winter-Friendly Games
Lean into the season and let teens release their inner child. Crowd-pleasing options include:
- Snow games: Snow Soccer, Snowball Dodgeball, Snow Sculpture Contests
- Night games: Flashlight Tag, Capture the Flag with glow sticks
- Indoor team challenges: Minute-to-Win-It games, trivia tournaments, relay races
Games build community and lower barriers. Then students can engage more fully in worship and teaching.
Small Groups
Small groups lead to spiritual breakthroughs. At a winter retreat, keep groups consistent so trust can grow. Provide leaders with discussion guides that include Scripture-based questions, space for honest sharing, and prayer prompts. Encourage leaders to share their own stories appropriately and to encourage authenticity.
Worship & Response
Try dim lighting, acoustic sets, and candlelit prayer times. Offer creative-response options such as prayer stations, journaling prompts, writing prayers or confessions, and reflection walks (weather permitting).
Sermon & Youth Talk Ideas
Keep messages Bible-based and interactive. Shorter talks with clear application work best. Sermon themes include:
- “God Is With You in the Waiting”
- “Finding Light When Life Feels Dark”
- “Who God Says You Are”
- “Faith That Endures”
When possible, use stories, illustrations, and testimonies. End with a clear invitation—whether prayer, repentance, commitment, or trusting God more deeply.
At a winter retreat, teens can step away from routine and experience God. With prayerful planning, the retreat will impact many hearts and lives. As you prepare, remember: God is at work, even in quiet seasons.
