50 Fun Christmas Activities to Make Merry Memories With the Family
Kids and adults alike will have so much fun!
By Shelby Deering
Ree Drummond
Ree Drummond's holiday season is always a busy one, whether she's celebrating in real life or acting in a Christmas movie. "It truly is the most wonderful time of the year," she says. "Winter means holidays, which means figuring out which Christmas cookies to make, searching for the perfect gifts, picking out the best tree on the lot, making (and delivering) cinnamon rolls to friends and neighbors."
Ree's got the right idea! Enjoying fun Christmas activities with the people you love is exactly what makes the season so memorable. That's why you should do the same with your own family and friends. Sure, sticking to your usual Christmas traditions has its charms—but this year, try mixing things up a bit with some new Christmas activities. Whether you're enjoying the holidays with your partner, girlfriends, or kids, there's something for everyone on this fun-filled Christmas bucket list.
Few traditions feel as timeless as hunting for the perfect Christmas tree. The scent of pine in the air, the crunch of snow underfoot, and that moment you all agree on the tree—it's the kind of simple holiday magic that never fades.
2
Take a Ski Trip
Paige Drummond
Hit the slopes for some frosty fun! A ski trip is the perfect way to soak up the beauty of winter while getting active. Whether you're skiing, snowboarding, or just sipping hot cocoa in the lodge, it's a festive way to make the most of the season.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
3
Make Homemade Holiday Cards
Peter Cade//Getty Images
There's something so special about a handmade card during the holidays. Whether simple or sparkly, your cards will bring a personal touch that friends and family will treasure.
4
Have a Festive Game Night
pixdeluxe//Getty Images
Gather everyone for a night of laughter and a little friendly competition! Break out classic board games or add a holiday twist with Christmas trivia, charades, or a gift-wrap relay.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
5
Settle In for Holiday Reading
Anastasiia Krivenok//Getty Images
Slow down and savor the quiet magic of the season with a good book in hand. Grab a blanket, pour a cup of cocoa, and curl up by the tree with a cozy holiday read.
6
Attend an Ice Festival
ULTRA.F//Getty Images
Bundle up and head out to a local ice festival for a truly magical winter experience! Stroll past shimmering ice sculptures or watch live carving demonstrations. It's a dazzling way to celebrate!
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7
Perform a Mini Christmas Play
SanyaSM//Getty Images
Turn your living room into a winter stage with a homemade Christmas play! Write a short script or recreate a holiday classic—complete with costumes, props, and plenty of giggles. It's a wonderful way to get creative and share a little joy together.
8
Make Holiday Crafts
D-Keine//Getty Images
There are so many Christmas crafts to try your hand at! Decorate stockings, make wreaths, DIY your own ornaments, paint nutcrackers, and so much more! Not only are they fun to make, but you can give the finished products away as gifts or use them to decorate your home.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
9
Set Up a Hot Chocolate or Eggnog Bar
Sedaeva//Getty Images
Hot chocolate is delicious as is but when you add festive toppings, it's a party! Make your own hot chocolate board or bar with marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate chips, caramels, and whatever else your heart desires. For those who aren't into cocoa, try an eggnog bar instead! There are so many unique eggnog recipes to whip up.
10
Complete a Christmas Puzzle
VioletaStoimenova//Getty Images
When the weather outside is frightful, gather the family for a puzzle night that's oh-so delightful. Pour some cocoa, grab a few snacks, and enjoy a cozy afternoon piecing together a bit of holiday fun.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
11
Have a Secret Santa Gift Exchange
Pekic//Getty Images
Whether you plan a Secret Santa gift exchange with your coworkers or friends, it's a delightful way to spread some cheer. For this tradition, everyone in the group will draw names at random to become someone's Secret Santa. Then, you'll anonymously give gifts to each other.
12
Take a Carriage Ride
fotostorm//Getty Images
Who wouldn't enjoy a sweet carriage ride alongside loved ones? Bundle up and step into the horse-drawn attraction to take in the decorated city around you.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
13
Sing Christmas Karaoke
South_agency//Getty Images
It's time to turn up the Christmas tunes—then bust out the karaoke machine to sing along! Everyone will have the best time belting out their favorite songs of the season.
14
Attend a Tree Lighting Ceremony
Gabriel Mello//Getty Images
Be sure to keep an eye out for any Christmas tree lighting ceremonies that may be happening near you. These events often include other fun festivities like parades, food stalls, and performances from carolers or dancers, too.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
15
Open Christmas Crackers
Betsie Van der Meer//Getty Images
Christmas crackers (or Christmas poppers) are cardboard tube wrapped in festive paper that are pulled apart to reveal confetti, a small gift or a joke. You can DIY your own or buy a few to use at your next holiday party.
16
Write a Letter to Santa
Ashley Alexander
It's a beloved tradition for kids of all ages! Draft on plain paper or use a handy-dandy printable to help your kiddos write their own letters to Santa.
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
17
Take a Christmas Light Tour in Your Neighborhood
Peter Dazeley
Do your neighbors go all out decorating their homes for Christmas? If so, then you can enjoy a festive holiday light tour without even leaving your neighborhood! This activity will get everyone in the holiday spirit in no time.
18
Hide the Elf on the Shelf
COURTESY OF THE LUMISTELLA COMPANY
This mischievous little elf is a staple for many families during the holiday season, and it's easy to see why. Have fun hiding him all over your home with these funny Elf on the Shelf ideas!
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
19
Bake Christmas Cookies
evgenyatamanenko
Who doesn't love freshly baked Christmas cookies? The best part is, baking them is almost as much fun as eating them! Bake your go-to favorites or try a new recipe this year.
20
Throw an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Antonio_Diaz
Yes, you can build a whole party around your favorite store-bought or DIY ugly Christmas sweater! Everyone will love the opportunity to show off their own ugly sweater and spread some holiday cheer.