Winter Holidays 2026: The Best Tips Against Boredom in Jena and Thüringen

Jena (16.02.2026) – For students in Thüringen, the most beautiful time of winter has begun: a week off school. But while the children cheer, parents often face the challenge of keeping their offspring meaningfully occupied in the wet and cold February weather. Fortunately, the region around Jena offers a diverse program this year that prevents boredom from arising in the first place.

Creative Highlights Right on Your Doorstep

Those who want to use the winter holidays without having to travel far will find exciting contact points directly in Jena. The “City of Light” shows its creative and scientific side this week. According to current event information, two topics in particular are in focus that stimulate the mind and are fun: art and astronomy.

Children and young people in Jena have the opportunity to not only look at modern art but to actively explore it. Museums and cultural institutions are opening their doors to young explorers to reduce inhibitions and promote their own creativity. Another highlight perfectly matches the tradition of the Saalestadt: creating one’s own constellations. These offers playfully combine knowledge with craftsmanship and offer a welcome change from everyday digital life.

Excursion Destinations in the Neighborhood: Erfurt, Weimar and Gera

Thanks to the central location of Jena and the good public transport connections, it is also worth looking beyond the city limits. Thüringen presents itself as particularly family-friendly during the 2026 winter holidays.

In the state capital Erfurt, for example, a historical adventure awaits: guided tours through the hidden sides of the Zitadelle Petersberg are on the program. Here, history comes alive when entering the old walls – an exciting experience, especially for slightly older school children.

Only a short train ride away lies Weimar. There, things also go underground, but with a tricky twist: riddles are waiting to be solved in the Parkhöhle. Such interactive formats are ideal for combining physical activity and mental exercise.

Those more interested in magic or media will find what they are looking for in East Thüringen. In Altenburg, children can marvel at magic tricks and perhaps even learn some, while in Gera, the youngsters themselves become directors: small animated films are created here. Such workshops are particularly valuable as they show children how much work and creativity goes into the media they consume daily.

Tips for Relaxed Holiday Days

The winter holidays in Thüringen officially last until February 22, 2026. Since the weather at this time of year is often unpredictable, indoor activities such as the mentioned workshops, museum visits, or cave tours are a safe bet for planning.

Experts advise not to overload the holiday days, but to specifically set one or two highlights per week. This creates shared memories without degenerating into leisure stress. Whether it’s crafting a constellation in Jena or a flashlight tour through old fortress walls in Erfurt – the important thing is the time spent together away from school stress.

We wish all families in Jena and the surrounding area an eventful and relaxing holiday week!

Sources:
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Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.

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