Reading Time: 14 minutes Bring the Holiday Cheer: 26 Fun Ideas to Enjoy with Your Family
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The holiday season is a time to come together, share laughter, and create memories that last a lifetime. It’s a season filled with warmth, joy, and opportunities to strengthen the bond between loved ones.
While the traditions of gift-giving and festive meals are cherished, the heart of the holidays lies in the experiences shared with family. Finding meaningful activities can turn an ordinary holiday into something extraordinary.
These moments, big or small, create stories to tell for years to come. The right mix of fun, creativity, and togetherness can make the season even more magical.
To help make your celebrations truly special, here are 26 engaging activities that bring families closer. Each idea offers a unique way to enjoy the season, perfect for families of all ages.
Let’s discover some of the best ways to make this holiday one to remember.
Table of Contents
Decorating the Christmas Tree
Decorating the tree is a classic tradition that sets the stage for the holiday season. Gathering as a family to hang ornaments, string lights, and place the star or angel on top can be a bonding experience.
It’s a great time to share stories about old ornaments or create new ones together. Playing festive music during the process makes the activity even more enjoyable. At the end, the tree stands as a glowing symbol of the joy and togetherness of the season.
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Baking Holiday Cookies
Baking holiday cookies is a beloved tradition that fills the home with delightful aromas and brings out everyone’s creativity. Families can choose their favorite recipes or try something new like gingerbread or peppermint cookies.
Decorating the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or candies allows everyone to get involved, regardless of age. Baking also offers a chance to share homemade treats with neighbors, friends, or community members.
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The end result is not just tasty cookies but cherished moments spent together.
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Building a Gingerbread House
Creating a gingerbread house is a fun and creative way to celebrate the holidays. Using either a pre-made kit or baking the gingerbread from scratch, this activity encourages teamwork and imagination.
Families can design their houses with colorful candies, frosting, and other edible decorations. Once completed, the gingerbread house becomes a festive centerpiece or a delightful snack. This hands-on project is sure to bring smiles and laughter to everyone involved.
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Caroling in Your Neighborhood
Caroling brings a touch of nostalgia and holiday cheer to any community. Singing holiday classics together is a wonderful way to spread joy and connect with neighbors. Families can plan their caroling route and select songs that everyone loves to sing.
Wearing festive attire or carrying small bells adds to the fun and festive atmosphere. The smiles and gratitude of those who hear the carols make the experience even more rewarding.
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Watching Classic Holiday Movies
Watching holiday movies together is a cozy and enjoyable way to spend time as a family. Classics like It’s a Wonderful Life or modern favorites like Elf offer something for everyone to enjoy.
Preparing snacks like popcorn and hot chocolate adds a special touch to the movie night. Families can make it a tradition to watch a favorite film each year, creating a sense of continuity and nostalgia. This simple yet meaningful activity brings warmth and joy to the season.
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Making Holiday Cards
Crafting holiday cards is a thoughtful activity that lets families share the spirit of the season with loved ones. Handmade cards can be as simple or elaborate as you want, using supplies like colored paper, markers, and stickers.
Each family member can add their personal touch, such as drawings or heartfelt messages. This activity not only strengthens creativity but also spreads cheer to those who receive the cards. It’s a wonderful way to remind others they are loved and appreciated.
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Crafting Homemade Ornaments
Making homemade ornaments is a creative way to personalize the holiday tree while spending quality time together. Families can use everyday items like salt dough, beads, or fabric scraps to design unique decorations.
This activity is suitable for all ages and allows everyone to express their artistic side. The ornaments created often become treasured keepsakes, reminding everyone of the special time spent together. Hanging them on the tree adds a personal touch to the holiday decor.
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DIY Advent Calendar
A DIY Advent calendar adds excitement to the days leading up to Christmas. Families can create their own using envelopes, small boxes, or jars filled with treats, notes, or small surprises.
Decorating the calendar together makes it even more special and unique. Opening each day’s surprise becomes a fun ritual that builds anticipation for the big day. This simple project adds a layer of joy to the holiday countdown.
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Creating a Family Holiday Scrapbook
A holiday scrapbook is a creative way to preserve memories and tell the story of the season. Families can include photos, ticket stubs, handwritten notes, or even small mementos from events or activities.
Working on the scrapbook together allows everyone to share their favorite moments and add their perspective. Over the years, the scrapbook becomes a treasured record of family traditions and milestones. It’s a meaningful project that captures the essence of the holidays.
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Making DIY Wrapping Paper
Creating your own wrapping paper is a simple and fun way to make gift-giving more personal. Families can use kraft paper, stamps, paints, or markers to design unique patterns and decorations.
Children especially enjoy this activity as it allows them to contribute creatively. Homemade wrapping paper not only stands out but also adds a thoughtful touch to each gift. This eco-friendly alternative is a festive way to enhance the holiday spirit.
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Visiting a Local Light Display
Exploring holiday light displays is a festive way to enjoy the season while soaking in the dazzling sights of twinkling decorations. Many towns and cities host events where homes, streets, or parks are adorned with colorful lights and creative designs.
Families can bundle up, take a stroll, or drive through these displays, making it a fun and relaxing outing. To make the experience extra special, consider sipping hot cocoa or playing favorite holiday songs along the way.
It’s a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories while enjoying the magic of the season.
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Going Ice Skating
Ice skating is a timeless winter activity that brings families together in a playful and energetic way. At a local rink or on a frozen pond, gliding across the ice is exciting and refreshing.
It’s a chance for everyone, beginners and seasoned skaters alike, to join in and enjoy the fun. Families can enhance the experience with warm drinks or snacks afterward. The laughter and shared moments on the ice make this activity a holiday favorite.
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Sledding or Snow Tubing
Sledding or snow tubing offers an exhilarating way to embrace the colder months. Heading to a nearby hill with sleds or tubes creates endless opportunities for laughter and thrills. Families can race down the slopes, build jumps, or simply enjoy the rush of the ride.
It’s an activity that appeals to all ages and requires little preparation beyond dressing warmly. Spending time outdoors while enjoying the crisp air and snowy landscapes adds an extra layer of fun to the holidays.
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Building a Snowman or Snow Fort
Building a snowman or a snow fort is a creative and hands-on way for families to spend time together. Kids and adults alike can sculpt snow into cheerful figures or impressive forts. Adding accessories like hats, scarves, and sticks brings snow creations to life.
Snowball fights or decorating the fort with lights can make the activity even more interactive. This classic winter pastime creates moments filled with laughter and teamwork, adding joy to any snowy day.
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Hosting a Winter Bonfire
A winter bonfire is a cozy way to gather as a family and enjoy the crisp holiday evenings. Sitting around a warm fire, sharing stories, and roasting marshmallows creates a relaxing and memorable experience.
Families can prepare seasonal treats like s’mores or hot cider to enjoy together. To make the gathering extra festive, sing carols or exchange small gifts. A bonfire provides a perfect backdrop for connecting and celebrating the season.
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Volunteering at a Local Shelter
Volunteering at a local shelter is a meaningful way for families to embrace the true spirit of the holidays. Helping others by serving meals or donating essential items teaches important lessons about compassion and gratitude.
Many shelters welcome families and provide opportunities to get involved in community service. This activity not only brightens the day for those in need but also strengthens bonds within the family. Giving back together makes the holiday season even more fulfilling.
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Donating to a Food or Toy Drive
Donating to food or toy drives is a simple yet impactful way to bring joy to those in need. Families can gather non-perishable goods, toys, or clothing to contribute to local organizations or charities.
Involving children in choosing items for donation helps them understand the importance of generosity and kindness. Many drives are easy to locate through schools, community centers, or religious groups.
Participating in these efforts spreads holiday cheer far beyond your own household.
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Attending a Holiday Parade
Holiday parades are lively events that bring the community together in celebration. Marching bands, floats, and festive characters create an atmosphere of excitement and fun. Families can arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and enjoy pre-parade activities.
Dressing warmly and bringing snacks or drinks helps make the experience comfortable and enjoyable. Watching the parade together becomes a delightful holiday tradition filled with laughter and wonder.
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Participating in a Holiday 5K Charity Run
A holiday-themed charity run combines fitness, fun, and giving back. Many events encourage participants to dress in festive costumes like Santa hats or elf outfits. The run typically supports a charitable cause, adding a sense of purpose to the activity.
Families can walk, jog, or run together, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. This energetic outing is a great way to bond while supporting a meaningful cause.
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Organizing a Secret Santa Gift Exchange
A Secret Santa gift exchange is a playful and inclusive way to share gifts during the holidays. Each family member draws a name and selects a thoughtful present for their chosen person.
Setting a budget and giving creative gift ideas ensures the exchange stays fun and manageable. The surprise element adds excitement as gifts are opened. This activity fosters a sense of connection and thoughtfulness, making it a cherished tradition.
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Reading Holiday Stories Together
Reading holiday stories is a peaceful and meaningful way for families to spend time together. Classic tales like The Night Before Christmas or modern favorites like The Polar Express bring the season to life.
Gathering around with a warm drink and blankets sets the perfect scene for storytelling. Each family member can take turns reading or sharing their favorite book. This simple tradition creates moments of closeness and sparks the imagination.
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Cooking a Family Recipe
Cooking a traditional family recipe brings generations together during the holidays. Preparing a dish that holds special meaning allows everyone to contribute to the meal. It’s a time to share cooking tips, reminisce about past celebrations, and create new memories.
The process of working side by side in the kitchen strengthens bonds and builds anticipation for the feast. The finished dish becomes a delicious symbol of family togetherness.
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Hosting a Family Game Night
Family game nights are lively and interactive, making them an excellent way to unwind during the holidays. Board games, card games, or holiday-themed trivia bring out friendly competition and laughter.
Setting aside time to play together encourages conversation and connection. Including snacks and festive drinks adds an extra layer of fun to the evening. Game nights often become a highlight of the season, enjoyed by both kids and adults.
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Organizing a Hot Chocolate Bar
A hot chocolate bar is a delightful way to warm up and celebrate the holiday season. Setting up a station with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and candy canes lets everyone customize their drink.
Adding sprinkles, flavored syrups, or chocolate shavings makes it even more special. Families can gather around and enjoy their creations while chatting or watching a holiday movie. This simple treat brings comfort and sweetness to the holidays.
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Holiday Karaoke Night
Karaoke nights during the holidays are filled with energy, laughter, and festive cheer. Singing along to favorite holiday tunes brings the whole family together in a lively atmosphere. Using a karaoke machine or an online playlist makes setup easy.
Participants can dress in holiday-themed outfits to enhance the fun. This musical activity is sure to create memories and bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
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Planning a Pajama Day
A pajama day is a cozy and relaxed way to enjoy quality family time during the holidays. Everyone can wear their comfiest pajamas and spend the day doing simple, enjoyable activities. Watching movies, playing board games, or baking treats creates a stress-free environment.
It’s a chance to slow down and focus on being together. Ending the day with a group photo in matching pajamas adds a fun keepsake to the tradition.
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Making Memories That Last
The holiday season is a perfect time to cherish moments with your family and create traditions that will be remembered for years. Each activity, no matter how big or small, adds its own special touch to the season.
Cozy nights at home and exciting outdoor adventures both strengthen bonds and bring joy to everyone involved. Embrace the opportunity to connect, laugh, and celebrate together during this festive time.
Let these shared moments remind you of what truly makes the holidays special. The memories you make now will warm your hearts long after the season ends.
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