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