Family Fun Activities for the Christmas Holidays

There are plenty of ways families can have fun during the Christmas holidays.

Each family has its own Christmas holiday activities and traditions. There are many fun activities in which families can engage during the holidays that help bring them closer and also intensify the spirit of Christmas. Some are more traditional than others, but the idea generally is the same: to enjoy the holidays and time together.

Baking

Holiday baking can be a fun way for families to spend time together.

Between sharing family stories and tasting your efforts, time spent in the kitchen can be fun any time of the year–particularly during the Christmas holidays. Bake cookies, cakes and seasonal pies as a way to bond. An added benefit–other than the aromas–is that children can learn about math through measuring and keeping track of baking times.

Expand on the preparation of family holiday favorites by making sure these recipes don't get lost in translation and transition. Take time as a family to record holiday recipes and the stories behind them, then compile them into a family holiday cookbook. Let children illustrate the books or use photos from Christmases past.

Caroling

Caroling is a popular holiday activity.

Although carols might become a little tedious over the loudspeaker during Christmas shopping, singing popular holiday songs is a fun way for families to spend time together. Make a songbook of your family’s favorite Christmas carols, then go door to door singing so others can enjoy them as well. If you aren’t up for making your own songbook, some local newspapers print them each year, or you can find song lists online.

Decorating Dad

Take red and green crepe paper, foil and other lightweight tree trimmings, and decorate Dad. Once you’re finished, get together and take a family photo. Done early enough, the photo can serve as this year’s Christmas card–or it can be saved for next year. You could also laminate the photo, poke a hole in the top, string red or green yarn or ribbon through and hang it on the tree.

Gingerbread Houses

Making gingerbread houses is an easy and fun way for families to observe Christmas.

Gingerbread houses don’t have to be difficult to make. Using graham crackers and store-bought frosting, along with candies like peppermints, chocolate kisses and jelly beans, engage the whole family in an evening of holiday fun. Sprinkle the finished house with coconut for “snow.” The house can serve as a centerpiece on the Christmas dinner table or as an added decoration under the tree.

Trimming the Tree

One fun family activity is trimming the Christmas tree.

Many families make a tradition of selecting their Christmas tree and bringing it home to set up and trim. Brew some hot chocolate and bake goodies for a family tree-trimming party. While bringing out each ornament, recall its past. Remember that each ornament might mean different things to different family members. Sharing those stories can make for a fun, memorable Christmas. Don’t forget to pop popcorn for stringing.

References

• Martha Stewart Christmas Workshop: Christmas Cottages
• Disney Family Fun: Christmas Activities
• Family Cookbook Project
• Christmas Carols