5 Fun Holiday Traditions and Activities for Families

With the holidays just a few short weeks away, it’s time to start planning your holiday activities for the year. We’ve curated a list of activities that are perfect family-friendly holiday events. So whether you’re looking for a new family tradition or just looking for something fun to do to get out of the house on a Thursday this month, this list is sure to have something for everyone!

5 Fun Holiday Traditions and Activities for Families

Play Tourist in Your Home Town

First up, we have a tradition that will have you exploring all the holiday decor and events in your hometown. With this activity you’ll be playing tourist in your hometown! Start by getting the whole family in the car (or on public transit!) and heading out to look at all the lights, decor, and seasonal events. Whether you drive around looking at houses and Christmas lights or head downtown to the local holiday market, you’ll be sure to create lots of memories for years to come. Be sure to make a pit stop for hot cocoa and rate your favorite displays!

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Family Movie Night

There are SO many good holiday movies on this time of year. Whether your into the classics like A Christmas Story or It’s a Wonderful Life or opt for more current movies like the new movies on Hallmark Channel, there are so many movies to choose from. We recommend starting a family tradition of movie nights once a week through the holidays. Take turns picking your favorite and making coordinating snacks with the movies. For example, if you watch Elf try making one of the funny Buddy Elf “Spaghetti” ice cream.

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Make Your Own Advent Calendars

I loved our advent calendar growing up! It’s a fun treat to get to open a little present everyday leading up to the holidays. You can do this as elaborate or as simplistic as you’d like; for example, you can wrap small little things like lip balm, ornaments, small toys, etc. Or do something related to your family’s favorite things like holiday-themed books or your kids’ favorite candy.

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Volunteerism for the Whole Family

The holidays are truly about family, community, and giving back to one another, so make sure your family spends time focusing on what really matters: showing love and compassion by giving to others. Start a new tradition by incorporating a volunteer opportunity into your holiday traditions. You can volunteer at your local animal shelter, hospital, homeless shelter, or senior living community. Try expanding your sphere of influence and finding new places and organizations to connect and volunteer your time with.

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Fancy Holiday Meal

Everything's better with food. That’s just a fact! Many of our traditions revolve around food, and this idea is also food-based. Try a new tradition to go to a “fancy” holiday meal. Whether it’s brunch, lunch, or dinner, that doesn’t matter; the point is to take some time to dress up in your fanciest clothes, head to a nice restaurant (or just nicer than normal), and enjoy a nice meal with your family! It’s also a fun opportunity for your kids to practice their table manners. It’ll be something your kids look forward to each year!

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