It's that time of the year again — the most wonderful time! And what better way to celebrate the holiday season than with some festive, family-friendly activities? Whether you're decorating the Christmas tree together, going on a neighborhood Christmas lights tour, or hosting a storytime by the fireplace, there are countless ways to make December evenings with the kids extra special. 

In this blog post, we'll explore 10 Christmas activities that are sure to bring joy and laughter to your home. So grab your Santa hats, indulge in some hot cocoa, and get ready to make unforgettable memories with your little ones!

Decorate the Christmas Tree Together

There's something truly magical about trimming the tree with your loved ones. The twinkling lights, the sparkling ornaments, and the scent of pine filling the air—it's a tradition that truly sets the stage for the holiday season. As you untangle the lights and carefully hang each ornament, take a moment to reminisce about the stories behind them. Do you remember where you got that special ornament? Perhaps it was from a family trip or a handmade treasure from your child's early school days. 

Not only is decorating the tree a wonderful way to bond as a family, but it also creates a beautiful centerpiece for your home that will spark joy every time you walk by. Don't forget to turn on some festive music and dance around as you deck the halls—you'll be making cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Make Homemade Christmas Cookies

There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies wafting through the house. Gather the family in the kitchen and let the creativity flow as you roll out the dough, cut out fun shapes, and decorate the cookies together. Whether it's classic gingerbread men, colorful sugar cookies, or decadent chocolate treats, the joy of baking together is simply unmatched. Plus, who can resist sneaking a taste of the cookie dough?

As you pop the cookies in the oven, take a moment to appreciate the warmth and laughter filling your home. Once they're baked to perfection, gather around the table with glasses of milk or hot cocoa and savor every delightful bite. And don't forget to leave a plate of these homemade treats for Santa on Christmas Eve — he'll surely appreciate the extra love put into them!

Write Letters to Santa Claus

Writing letters to Santa Claus is a time-honored tradition that ignites the imagination and excitement of children. Sit down with your little ones and encourage them to express their heartfelt wishes, dreams, and gratitude in their letters. Whether it's a request for a special toy, a message of love to Santa, or a thank-you note for the joy of the season, this simple activity is a beautiful way for kids to connect with the magic of Christmas.

After the letters are finished, seal them in envelopes and head to the nearest post office to mail them to the North Pole. The anticipation of Santa's response and the joy on your children's faces are definitely a priceless sight.

Watch Christmas Movies as a Family

After a day filled with holiday activities, there's nothing better than cozying up with your loved ones to watch classic Christmas movies. From heartwarming tales of friendship and love to animated adventures with Santa and his elves, there's a movie for every member of the family to enjoy. 

Pile up the blankets, make some popcorn, and dim the lights as you embark on a cinematic journey filled with laughter, tears, and heartwarming moments. Whether it's an old favorite or a new discovery, the time spent together watching these beloved films is sure to create lasting memories and instill the true spirit of the season in everyone's hearts.

Go on a Neighborhood Christmas Lights Tour

Take a festive stroll or drive around your neighborhood to marvel at the enchanting displays of holiday lights. From twinkling icicles lining the rooftops to elaborately decorated yards, the Christmas lights tour is a delightful way to soak in the joy and creativity of your community. Create a scavenger hunt for the kids to find specific displays or simply revel in the magical glow that surrounds you. 

Don't forget to bring along some warm drinks and play some cheerful holiday tunes as you cruise through the illuminated streets. It's a simple yet dazzling experience that will fill you with wonder and embody the holiday cheer that shines brightly in your hearts.

Build a Gingerbread House

Engage in a delightful and delicious family activity by building a gingerbread house together. Whether you opt for a pre-made kit or bake the gingerbread from scratch, the process of assembling and decorating the house is an experience that's bound to evoke smiles and laughter. From colorful candy rooftops to sugary windows and doors, the only limit is your imagination.

As you work together to create your masterpiece, relish in the joy of spending quality time with one another and revel in the delightful mess that comes with decorating. The end result may not be Pinterest-perfect, but the memories made during the process are what truly matter.

Carol in the Community

Spread some holiday cheer by organizing a family caroling excursion in your community. Gather your friends and neighbors, or go on a musical adventure just with your family, and sing beloved Christmas carols for your neighbors. Whether it's traditional tunes or festive jingles, the sound of your voices echoing through the streets will surely bring joy to those who hear them.

Top 10 Most Popular Christmas Carols

Immerse yourself in the joyful melodies and timeless lyrics of classic Christmas carols, and you'll find yourself carried away by the magic and wonder of the holiday season. 

• Jingle Bells: Jingle Bells is perhaps one of the most recognizable Christmas songs, and for good reason! With its catchy melody and cheerful lyrics, it's impossible not to feel merry and bright when you hear this tune.
• ‍Silent Night: Silent Night is a peaceful and serene carol that captures the calm and magic of the Christmas season. Its soothing melody and poignant lyrics remind us to take a moment of quiet reflection during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.

• Deck the Halls: Deck the Halls is a lively and exuberant carol that embodies the festive spirit of Christmas. Its joyful tune and playful lyrics inspire us to decorate our homes, gather with loved ones, and embrace the merry-making traditions of the season. 
• Joy to the World: Joy to the World is a triumphant and uplifting carol that celebrates the birth of Jesus and spreads messages of hope and salvation. Its powerful melody and rousing lyrics inspire us to rejoice and sing praises during the Christmas season. 
• Hark! The Herald Angels Sing: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing is a majestic and awe-inspiring carol that heralds the arrival of the newborn King. Its grand melody and reverent lyrics invite us to join the heavenly chorus and proclaim the glorious news of Christ's birth. 
• O Holy Night: O Holy Night is a breathtaking and emotive carol that captures the beauty and reverence of the Nativity. Its soaring melody and profound lyrics convey the awe and wonder of the birth of Jesus, inviting us to behold the Savior's arrival with reverence and adoration. 
• O Come, All Ye Faithful: O Come, All Ye Faithful is a stirring and reverent carol that calls believers to come and adore the newborn King. Its solemn melody and devout lyrics inspire us to gather in worship and praise, joining the celestial throng in celebrating the birth of Christ. 
• We Wish You a Merry Christmas: We Wish You a Merry Christmas is a cheerful and lighthearted carol that embodies the spirit of festive well-wishing and joyful camaraderie. Its merry melody and jovial lyrics convey the warm sentiments of spreading holiday cheer and good tidings to all. 
• The First Noel: The First Noel is a gentle and tender carol that shares the timeless story of the shepherds' awe at the angelic proclamation of Christ's birth. Its soft melody and poignant lyrics transport us to the hushed wonder of that holy night, inviting us to join in the jubilant praise of the Savior's arrival. 
• Away in a Manger: Away in a Manger is a tender and sentimental carol that reflects on the peaceful scene of Jesus's birth in the manger. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke the innocence and simplicity of the Nativity, inviting us to ponder the beauty and humility of Christ's coming. 

All in all, not only is caroling a heartwarming way to share the spirit of the season, but it also fosters a sense of community and togetherness. Plus, it's a wonderful opportunity for your little ones to experience the joy of giving and connecting with others through the universal language of music.

Create DIY Christmas Ornaments

Get crafty with the kids and whip up some DIY ornaments to adorn your tree or give as heartfelt gifts. Whether it's hand-painted baubles, glittery snowflakes, or personalized ornaments with each family member's name, the possibilities for creativity are endless. 

Set up a designated crafting area, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and let the artistic fun begin. This hands-on activity not only allows for self-expression, but it also provides an opportunity for cherished family bonding over creativity and imagination. The ornaments you create together will serve as mementos of this special time and add an extra dose of love and personality to your holiday decor.

Organize a Family Gift Exchange

Embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness by organizing a family gift exchange. Whether it's a Secret Santa draw or a white elephant exchange, the anticipation and surprise of receiving and giving gifts add an extra layer of excitement to the holiday season. 

Set a budget, establish the rules, and watch as the excitement builds leading up to the exchange. Not only does this activity foster joy and laughter, but it also teaches children the value of thoughtful gift-giving and the joy of making others happy. The memories created during the exchange will become cherished traditions that your family will look forward to year after year.

Host a Christmas Eve Storytime by the Fireplace

Gather around the warm glow of the fireplace on Christmas Eve and indulge in a cozy storytime with your little ones. Whether it's reading holiday classics, sharing personal stories, or creating your own tales, the tranquil ambiance of the crackling fire creates the perfect setting for moments of togetherness and reflection. 

As you wind down from the day's festivities, the flickering light and the warmth of the fire provide a serene backdrop for bonding and relaxation. It's a simple yet meaningful way to end the day and nurture the connection between family members as you eagerly anticipate the magic of Christmas morning.

Conclusion

From baking delicious treats to spreading holiday cheer in the community, these 10 Christmas activities are sure to create unforgettable memories with your little ones. Embrace the spirit of the season, cherish every moment, and revel in the joy and togetherness that the holiday brings. After all, the most meaningful gifts of all are the love and memories shared with the ones we hold dear. The holiday season is a time for connection, love, and laughter, and these activities are perfect opportunities to embrace the magic of the season.

As you immerse yourself in these delightful Christmas traditions, remember that it's not about the perfection of each activity, but rather the joy and warmth that comes from spending quality time with your loved ones. Whether it's the laughter shared while decorating the tree or the quiet moments around the fireplace, these simple pleasures are what make the holiday season truly special.

So, as you embark on your December evenings filled with festive fun, let the spirit of Christmas guide you to create cherished memories that will be treasured for years to come. From all of us at GetOutPass, we wish you a joyful and magical holiday season filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments with your family. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Remember, the true gift of the holiday season is the time we spend with those we hold dear. Embrace every opportunity to create magical memories and spread joy this Christmas. Happy holidays!