Are you looking for a way to make this holiday season special? Whether it’s due to the current pandemic or simply wanting something different, staying at home doesn’t have to mean being boring. Think outside the box and get creative with 10 fun family activities that everyone will enjoy this holiday season. From creating personalized decorations around the house, whipping up delicious treats in the kitchen, having indoor movie nights, or even organizing an educational scavenger hunt there are plenty of ways you can celebrate at home and build precious memories with your family during this unique time of year.
1. Holiday Themed Scavenger Hunt
Create a scavenger hunt throughout your home with Christmas-themed items as the goal. Make a list of items to be found, such as ornaments, candy canes, stockings, or themed toys. Make the tasks age-appropriate so everyone can participate. To add to the excitement, consider adding clues, riddles, or puzzles. Don’t forget to have small prizes for the winners.
2. DIY Christmas Ornaments
Engage your family with some DIY ornaments. You can use materials like air-dry clay, clear ornaments, or Popsicle sticks to create unique and personalized decorations. Involve everyone by letting each family member create their own masterpiece for the tree. This activity not only brings the family together but also creates lasting keepsakes.
3. Gingerbread House Building Contest
Divide your family into teams and compete against each other in building gingerbread houses. Provide each team with an equal amount of materials, such as graham crackers, icing, and candy. Set a timer and let the creativity flow. Once the timer runs out, judge the creations and display them throughout the house.
4. Homemade Holiday Cards
Make personalized holiday cards for friends, family, or neighbors. Use materials such as cardstock, markers, colored pencils, stamps, and stickers. Encourage everyone to write heartfelt messages, draw a picture, or create a collage. This forces family members to spend quality time together while spreading the holiday cheer.
5. Christmas Movie Marathon
Create a list of classic Christmas movies that span across the different eras of your family, including animated and live-action films. Let each family member choose their favorite film and have a day-long or evening movie marathon. Grab some popcorn, hot chocolate and cozy blankets to create the perfect holiday movie experience.
6. Virtual Family Gatherings
Organize a virtual family gathering to connect with those who are unable to attend in person. Set up a video call where everyone can join, share their favorite holiday moments and play games together. Try trivia, charades or even a holiday sing-along to create cherished memories.
7. Craft a Festive Winter Wonderland
Transform your home into a winter wonderland using homemade decorations or DIY window snow. Have each family member contribute to the creation of a festive backdrop that builds a stronger bond and ramps up the festive spirit. Encourage the use of recycled materials and upcycling to promote sustainability.
8. Holiday-Themed Family Game Night
Host a family game night with holiday-themed board games, card games, or even a game of holiday bingo. Make holiday-themed snacks and beverages to keep the energy going. Encourage a healthy competition, and consider having small prizes for the winners.
9. Educational Holiday Activity – Cultural Exploration
Why not learn about holiday traditions from different cultures? Select a few countries or cultures and research their unique Christmas celebrations. Encourage each family member to present their chosen culture’s traditions, foods, and games. Round off the exercise by trying out a few international recipes and customs for dinner.
10. Cookie Baking and Decorating
Bake cookies together as a family using different holiday-shaped cookie cutters. Once the cookies are cooled, create a cookie decorating station utilizing a variety of colored icing, edible glitter, and an assortment of holiday-themed sprinkles. The final result? A delectable and enjoyable treat for the entire family with a variety of one-of-a-kind creations. Enjoy the cookies as a snack after dinner or give them away to friends and family for a special surprise.
