Celebrate the holidays with our ultimate Christmas bucket list. Discover 20 fun family activities to make this Christmas memorable.
The holiday season is finally here. In our family, Christmas isn’t just a day; it’s a whole season filled with traditions, laughter, and love.
There’s something special about the warmth and joy that December brings. From the glow of lights to the smell of cookies baking, every little thing adds to the magic.
As the days get shorter and colder, it’s the perfect time to slow down and spend quality time together. The Christmas season gives us a chance to make memories and enjoy simple moments that mean so much.
With school breaks and time off from work, it’s easier to come together as a family and focus on what really matters.
That’s why we’ve made this Christmas bucket list. We wanted to fill it with activities that bring joy, spread kindness, and create memories. There’s something for everyone.
Each item on the list is a way to feel the magic of Christmas, and we hope it brings your family as much happiness as it does ours.
Whether you check off every item or just a few, the important part is spending time with the people you love. After all, that’s what the holidays are all about.
This post may contain affiliate links. This means at no extra cost to you; I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.
Christmas Bucket List
1. Decorate the House
Nothing kicks off the season like transforming the house into a winter wonderland. Grab some lights, hang up your favorite decorations, and add some festive touches to every corner of your home.
2. Put Up Christmas Lights
Stringing up lights outside can be a fun family activity. The glow of colorful lights sets the mood and spreads holiday cheer to everyone who passes by.
3. Attend a Tree Lighting Ceremony
Many towns host tree lighting ceremonies, which are so magical to watch. The lights flick on, the crowd cheers, and the holiday spirit begins.
4. Make a Gingerbread House
Build and decorate a gingerbread house with frosting and candy. It’s creative, a little messy, and so much fun for the whole family.
5. Watch a Christmas Parade
Check your local schedule for a Christmas parade. The floats, music, and holiday characters make this an exciting way to celebrate the season.
6. Bake Christmas Cookies
There’s nothing like the smell of fresh-baked cookies. Make a few different kinds and then decorate them with sprinkles and frosting.
7. Send Holiday Cards
Sending holiday cards is a great way to stay connected with family and friends. Get the kids involved by having them add their own drawings or messages.
8. Donate Toys to a Local Charity
Teach kids the joy of giving by donating toys to a local charity. It’s a wonderful way to give back and make the season special for someone else.
9. Read a Christmas-Themed Book
Snuggle up with a good Christmas book. My kids love reading The Polar Express.
10. Visit Santa
Head to the store or a local event to visit Santa. Watching the kids tell Santa their wishes is a special moment and a must-do for many families.
11. Drink Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate with marshmallows is a holiday favorite. Try different flavors like peppermint or add whipped cream on top for an extra treat.
12. Write a Letter to Santa
Have the kids write letters to Santa. They can share their Christmas wishes and what they’ve done to be on the “nice” list this year.
13. Wear a Christmas Sweater
Put on your favorite Christmas sweater and get in the festive spirit.
14. Listen to Christmas Music
Turn on your favorite Christmas playlist. Singing along to holiday songs together can instantly bring joy to the whole family.
15. Watch Christmas Movies
Have a family movie night with all the holiday classics. Some ideas are:
- Elf
- Home Alone
- The Grinch
16. Make Ornaments
Get crafty and make your own ornaments. Homemade ornaments are special keepsakes and add a personal touch to the Christmas tree.
17. Wear Holiday Pajamas
Matching holiday pajamas make for adorable photos and are perfect for cozy nights.
18. Wrap Presents
Gather the wrapping paper, ribbons, and tags, and wrap up your gifts together.
19. Take a Family Photo by the Tree
Don’t forget to take a family photo by the Christmas tree. It’s a great keepsake and fun to look back on each year.
20. Elf on the Shelf
If you have an Elf on the Shelf, get creative with new hiding spots and ideas each day. The kids will love searching for the elf each morning and discovering the elf’s latest “adventure.”
Printable Christmas Bucket List
Want to keep track of all these fun holiday activities? Click the link below to get a printable copy of our Christmas bucket list.
More Holiday Tips
40 Christmas Traditions for Families
