For many of us, Christmas is just the best time of year. It’s fun, a chance to let loose and due to taking part in traditions each year it’s really nostalgic. It might be your first Christmas as a family or maybe you’re just looking to add something new to your holiday celebrations, but either way, creating those meaningful traditions can make the season even more special. Here are some fun and heartwarming family traditions you can start this Christmas to make lasting memories.
Christmas Eve Box
The Christmas Eve box is a concept that’s really taken off in recent years and is a tradition that kids absolutely love! On the day before Christmas, give each family member a small box filled with cozy and festive goodies. Some popular items to include are Christmas themed pajamas- matching family pajamas make for a great photo! A book, hot chocolate and a few treats like popcorn or sweets. For young kids, an activity to do during the day is a good idea and keeps them busy while waiting for Santa.
Family Movie Night
Movie night costs nothing so is a great tradition if you’re on a budget or just dont want to spend any more money at this time of year. You’ve got your classics like Home Alone or Elf, or a heartwarming animation like The Polar Express, there’s tons of Christmas movies to choose from on Netflix, Prime or just regular tv channels during the festive season. You could dedicate a specific night every December as “Christmas Movie Night” and watch one film each week leading up to the holiday. Don’t forget the snacks!
Baking
Nothing says Christmas like the smell of freshly baked cookies filling the house! Spend an afternoon baking and decorating festive treats together, things like gingerbread men and Christmas cupcakes always go down well. This tradition is great way to bond as a family and the cookies make wonderful homemade gifts.
Craft Day
Making homemade ornaments, wreaths or Christmas cards is such a way to celebrate the season. You can use these homemade creations to decorate your home or give them as gifts to friends and family. This tradition is especially fun for younger kids who love to get messy with paint, glitter, and glue, and it’s a great opportunity to make something special together. You could even go on a nature walk first and gather things like holly, pine cones and other nature items to use in your crafts.
Volunteering
One of the most meaningful traditions you can start as a family is giving back during the festive season. It could be donating toys to a local charity, volunteering at a food bank, or helping a neighbour in need, but showing kindness and generosity is a beautiful way to teach children about the true spirit of Christmas. You could take part in a ‘shoebox appeal’ where you send shoebox of items to a worthy cause, or volunteer at a shelter or care home. Check out Facebook to find these sorts of opportunities.
What traditions does your family have?
