Wintertime activities: How Brits stay engaged in the cold

As the temperature drops and the holiday season approaches, Brits embrace winter activities that balance coziness, cultural indulgence, and festive cheer. YouGov Profiles data reveals gender and age-based differences in wintertime habits, as well as universal favorites that bring people together during the season.

Gender-Based Winter Preferences

Women lead in activities that emphasize connection and cultural enrichment. Visiting friends and family (59%) is their top winter priority, followed by shopping (54%) and attending indoor performances (52%). Their affinity for cultural experiences is further reflected in preferences for theatre shows (41%) and concerts (31%). Women also favor hosting gatherings, with hosting a dinner/party (37%) ranking significantly higher than men’s preference (29%).

Men show more interest in sports and casual entertainment. Going out to a bar (38%) and sporting events (21%) highlight their penchant for socializing in active or event-driven settings. However, both genders share a similar enthusiasm for activities like walking (41%-43%) and working out (29%-30%), underscoring a commitment to staying active during winter.

Age Groups: Shifting Focus with the Years

Wintertime activities vary notably across age demographics, reflecting changing interests and priorities as Brits age.

• 18-34-year-olds lean into entertainment and novelty. They top the charts for movie theater visits (57%), working out (36%), and trying something new (33%), signaling a desire to stay engaged and explore fresh experiences during winter.
• 35-54-year-olds strike a balance between social and cultural engagements. They rank highest for indoor performances (53%), visiting friends and family (57%), and hosting dinners/parties (38%).
• 55+ respondents adopt a more laid-back approach. Their favorite activities include walking (44%) and visiting friends and family (53%), but they engage less in physically demanding or novelty-driven activities like sports (8%) or trying something new (21%).

Universal favourites and seasonal highlights

Some activities hold universal appeal, bridging the gaps across demographics. Visiting friends and family (53%) and movie theater visits (51%) are among the most popular winter activities, suggesting that the season is a time for togetherness and shared experiences.

Shopping (48%) remains a seasonal staple as Brits prepare for the holidays, while indoor performances (46%) provide warmth and cultural engagement during the colder months. Interestingly, while outdoor performances (6%) rank low overall, they likely capture a niche group of winter enthusiasts who embrace the season's charm despite the chill.

Image Credit: Generated by DALL-E