• Snowball fights are the ultimate in winter party competition.snowball on red background image by ennavanduinen from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>
  
  Throwing a party in winter doesn't necessarily mean holing up indoors and avoiding the harsh elements. You and your friends can stay active and have a good time by layering sweaters, strapping on boots and heading our into the snow for some old-fashioned fun and games. You'll have such a good time with these winter games that you won't want to go back inside.
  
  

Snowman Competitions

• No heavy snowfall is complete without the building of snowmen, so introduce a competitive aspect to the winter tradition. Have your guests split into teams and determine a special task to determine the winner. For example, you may hold a race to see who can build the first snowman over 5 feet tall. If you want to see some high-quality snowmen, however, raise the stakes. See which team can build the tallest snowman without toppling their sculpture. For an artistic group, hold a contest to see who can sculpt the most beautiful snowman. Give out supplies like coal, carrots, buttons and squirt bottles of colored water.
  
  

Treasure Hunts

• Deep snow obscures the landscape, so take advantage of your pristine white world by organizing a scavenger hunt. One type of scavenger hunt is a wintry spin on the traditional Easter egg hunt. Instead of hiding eggs around the yard, though, hide a few dozen ice cubes made with colored water. They'll stay frozen outside, and the bright colors make them easier to find in the white landscape.
  
  Similarly, organize a winter treasure hunt using clues hidden throughout the neighborhood. Each clue should be sealed in a plastic bag and hidden in the snow, and each clue leads to the next. At the end of the treasure hunt, leave a cooler of prizes and treats for the victor. Place your clues strategically, however, because if they are all hidden in snowy areas, competing contestants may simply follow each other's footprints.
  
  

Snowball Throws

• Snowball fights are one of the most popular winter games. All you need is a healthy sense of competition and snow at your feet. Mix up tradition by organizing specialized snowball competitions. For example, try your luck knocking top hats off each other's heads by throwing snowballs, or throwing them at a target. You may also divide yourselves into teams, building elaborate snow forts and launching into all-out snow warfare.