10+ Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day: Ideas for the Whole Family
Christmas Day is a time for family, friends, and celebration. It’s a day to enjoy the company of loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime.
For many people, it’s the most wonderful day of the year. However, sometimes you think: what are some fun things to do on Christmas day?
There are many ways to celebrate Christmas day and endless options. Some people prefer to spend the day at home, cooking a big meal and watching holiday movies.
Others may choose to go out and explore the city, taking in the festive decorations and activities. Whether you’re looking for a low-key day or an action-packed adventure, here are some ideas for everyone to enjoy.
Preparing for Christmas Day
It’s all about preparing for the BIG day! Think about how you want your day to feel. Here are some ideas:
- Relaxed
- Full of Adventure
- Calm
- Busy
- Festive
- Cozy
Once you have an idea of how you want to feel on Christmas Day it will be easier to decide the things to do on Christmas Day.
Decorating Your Home
Decorating a home is an important part of preparing for Christmas Day. A Christmas tree is a must-have decoration for many people.
One fun activity is making your own ornaments to decorate your tree.
Here is a post on How To Make Salt Dough Ornaments.
Wreaths can also be a fun way to decorate!
A fun Christmas Day activity depending on where you live could be gathering pinecones and branches to make your own DIY wreath.
Planning A Yummy Christmas Potluck
Planning the Christmas meal is another important part of preparing for Christmas Day. Traditional Christmas foods include turkey, ham, and roast beef. Side dishes can include mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables.
All of these dishes take a lot of time to put together and cook. One fun idea is to organize a potluck with your family.
This way the person hosting the gathering doesn’t have to make everything.
Traditional Crafting
Gingerbread houses are a fun activity that can be done with family and friends. Decide what type of gingerbread houses you will make, homemade from scratch or store bought.
Be warned that putting together a gingerbread house can be harder than it looks!
Make sure you have lots of candy to decorate the houses with and a table dedicated for this somewhat messy craft.
Morning Christmas Festivities
Start the day off right with some morning festivities. Gather around the Christmas tree and open presents.
Make sure to take turns and savor the moment. Don’t forget to take pictures to capture the memories.
After the presents are opened, it’s time for some breakfast. Whip up some pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
If you open stockings it can be fun to save the stockings till after breakfast so there are more gifts to look forward to.
Check out 40 Stocking Stuffer Ideas
Christmas Outdoor Adventures
If the weather is nice, head outside for some outdoor adventures. Go ice skating at a local rink or go sledding down a nearby hill.
If there’s enough snow, build a snowman or have a snowball fight.
For a more structured activity, plan a scavenger hunt. Hide clues around the yard or house and have the kids search for them.
The final clue can lead to a special surprise, like a small gift or a trip to a nearby Christmas village.
If you live in a warm location you might head to the beach for a day of swimming.
Evening Holiday Entertainment
As the day winds down, it’s time for some evening entertainment. Watch a classic Christmas movie like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or “A Christmas Carol.”
Check out Christmas Movies You Might Not Have Heard Of
For a live performance, see “The Nutcracker” or attend a Christmas concert.
For an action packed day you might plan a Christmas party. Invite family and friends over for food, drinks, and games.
Consider doing a white elephant gift exchange for some added fun.
Crafts and Games
One way to create lasting memories is to spend time together doing crafts and playing games.
Decorating sugar cookies are great activities that can involve the whole family. Another fun idea is to have a craft night where everyone can make their own Christmas ornaments or even a Christmas quilt.
Playing games such as a candy cane hunt or an elf on the shelf scavenger hunt can also be a fun way to spend time together.
Capturing the Moment
Another way to create lasting memories is to capture the moment. Taking family photos in matching Christmas pajamas or ugly Christmas sweaters is a fun way to remember the day.
Another idea is to create a Christmas play or skit and record it for future viewing. Enjoy Hot cocoa and cookies while watching the play together as a family.
Spread Holiday Cheer
Go Christmas Caroling! Print out the words to some of your favorite Christmas songs and go around singing to your neighbors.
This is a fun way to get out of the house and depending on your singing capability can be really funny too.
Giving Back and Reflection
The holiday season is a time for giving, and Christmas Day is no exception. Many people find joy in volunteering, donating to charity, or performing random acts of kindness.
Here are some ways to give back and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Volunteering and Charity
Donating to a charity that supports a cause close to your heart is a great way to give back.
Consider donating to a toy drive or sponsoring a child’s Christmas gift.
Thank You Notes and Gratitude
Christmas is a time to reflect on the things we are grateful for. Writing thank you notes to loved ones or those who have made a difference in your life is a great way to show appreciation and spread joy.
In summary, giving back and reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas can bring joy and fulfillment to the holiday season. Whether it’s volunteering, donating to charity, performing random acts of kindness, or simply expressing gratitude, there are many ways to spread joy and positivity on Christmas Day.
