Christmas Eve is a magical time for kids and it can be just as wonderful for parents as you watch your children experience it. Looking for something memorable to do this year on Christmas Eve? There are lots of fun ideas that will give you and your little ones something to remember. Try one or more of these fun activities and your kids will be talking about it for the rest of their lives.
1. Leave a Santa Key
If your kids are wondering how Santa gets in, make a magical key and leave it outside for him to find so he can fill the stockings.
2. Feed the Reindeer
My kids love doing this! Scatter some oats and glitter in the front yard to help the reindeer find your house.
3. Read the "night before Christmas"
What makes a better Christmas Eve tradition than reading this magical book to get everyone in the festive mood.
4. Bake Cookies
Spend Christmas Eve whipping up some cookies to share. Leave some out for Santa.
5. Look at the Lights
Once it gets dark on Christmas Eve, pile into the car and drive around looking at the lights on people's houses.
6. Eat Dinner under the Tree
Spread a blanket and enjoy a meal under the tree, just lit by the lights on the tree.
7. Hang the Stockings
If you haven't already, let your kids hang their stockings so they are ready for Santa to load them up.
8. Make a Christmas Eve Box
Wrap a box filled with new pajamas, a Christmas movie and snacks and let your kids open it on Christmas Eve.
9. Track Where Santa is
Use the Norad website to see how close Santa is to your house.
10. Deliver Toys to Other Kids
Teach your kids about helping others by bringing them along to deliver toys to kids in shelters or the hospital.
11. Sing Christmas Carols
Choose a few of your kids' favorites and sing them by candlelight before you all go to bed.
12. Go to a Christmas Service
If you are religious or spiritual, take your kids to a service to celebrate your faith. The candle light service has always been one of my favorite Christmas Eve traditions.
13. Leave Letters for Santa
https://media.giphy.com/media/JuPW7DnqoFQVG/giphy.gif
Let your kids write Santa a thank-you letter and leave it with the milk and cookies.
14. See a Show
If your kids are older and can sit through a program, consider tickets to the Nutcracker or other Christmas show for the night before the big day.
15. Wrap Special Presents
Save a couple of gifts and let your kids help you wrap them up in Christmas Eve. What fun!
16. Have a Party
If you have a lot to do on Christmas with family events, consider having a party on Christmas Eve so that your Christmas Day can be more relaxed. The kids will love helping you plan the big event.
17. Have a Special Meal
Is there something you look forward to eating every Christmas Eve? Chances are your kids are the same. Make that meal every year and it will be so special to all of you.
What's your Christmas Eve tradition?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some fun Christmas Eve activities for kids?
- Try baking cookies, decorating gingerbread houses, or reading festive stories together.
- How can I keep kids entertained on Christmas Eve?
- Plan a mix of crafts, games, and a holiday movie to keep their excitement and energy balanced.
- Are there any simple crafts for kids on Christmas Eve?
- Yes, making paper snowflakes or homemade ornaments are easy and festive craft ideas.
- How can I make Christmas Eve special for toddlers?
- Create a cozy holiday corner with their favorite books and soft lights for a magical storytime.
- What’s a fun way to involve kids in Christmas preparations?
- Let them help wrap presents, set the table, or prepare simple snacks for family and guests.
- Can I include outdoor activities on Christmas Eve?
- Absolutely! A nighttime walk to look at Christmas lights or a small backyard snowman building can be great.
- How do I manage excitement so kids can sleep on Christmas Eve?
- Set a calming bedtime routine with quiet activities and limit sugary treats before bed.
- Are there any meaningful traditions to start on Christmas Eve?
- Yes, try reading a special holiday story or sharing something you’re grateful for as a family.
- What snacks are great for kids on Christmas Eve?
- Serve festive treats like hot cocoa, fruit kabobs with red and green fruits, or Christmas-themed cookies.
- How can I include older kids in Christmas Eve fun?
- Encourage them to lead games, help with cooking, or create a holiday playlist for the family.