Things to Do on Christmas Day: 25 Fun Ideas for a Magical Holiday
Christmas morning arrives with excitement and wonder, but once the presents are unwrapped, many families wonder how to make the rest of the day equally special. Whether you’re looking for indoor activities, outdoor adventures, or meaningful traditions, we’ve compiled 25 festive ideas to help you create unforgettable memories this holiday season.
Morning Magic: Start Your Day Right
1. Cook a Special Holiday Breakfast. Begin Christmas morning with homemade cinnamon rolls, festive pancakes shaped like snowmen, or a full traditional spread. Let everyone participate in the kitchen for quality family time.
2. Watch the Sunrise Together Bundle up and witness the first light of Christmas Day. It’s a peaceful moment to reflect on the season’s blessings before the festivities begin.
3. Open Stockings by the Fireplace. Create cozy memories gathered around the warmth of your fireplace, savoring small surprises and treats from Santa.
4. Attend a Christmas Service. Many families find meaning in attending morning worship services, celebrating the spiritual significance of the holiday together.
Outdoor Winter Wonderland Adventures
5. Visit a Festive Light Display. Many holiday attractions remain open on Christmas Day. Experience the magic at Christmas at the Tree Farm, where millions of twinkling lights create an enchanting winter wonderland.
6. Go Ice Skating. Find a local outdoor rink and glide across the ice. It’s a classic winter activity that brings joy to all ages.
7. Build a Snowman or Snow Fort. If you’re blessed with fresh snow, head outside for creative fun. Make it a competition to see who builds the most impressive snow creation.
8. Take a Winter Nature Walk. Explore local trails and appreciate the beauty of winter. The quiet serenity of nature on Christmas Day offers a refreshing change of pace.
9. Have a Snowball Fight Release energy and laughter with a friendly family snowball battle in your backyard.
Indoor Family Fun
10. Host a Christmas Movie Marathon. Curl up with hot cocoa and watch beloved holiday classics. Create a cozy theater atmosphere with blankets and festive snacks.
11. Play Board Games and Puzzles. Break out new games received as gifts or revisit family favorites. Working on a holiday puzzle together encourages conversation and teamwork.
12. Create Holiday Crafts: Make ornaments for next year, design thank-you cards, or try your hand at festive DIY projects using craft supplies from under the tree.
13. Bake Christmas Cookies: Whip up batches of sugar cookies, gingerbread, or your family’s special recipe. Decorate them together for maximum fun.
14. Have a Dance Party. Clear the living room and blast Christmas music. Let loose with silly dance moves and create joyful memories.
Meaningful Traditions
15. Share Gratitude Around the Table During your Christmas feast, have each person share what they’re most thankful for this year.
16. Call Distant Relatives Connect with family members who couldn’t be present through video calls, making them feel included in your celebration.
17. Read the Christmas Story. Whether from a religious text or a beloved children’s book, reading aloud brings families together through storytelling.
18. Create a Memory Book. Document the day with photos and have everyone write down their favorite moments to preserve in a family journal.
19. Volunteer or Give Back: Visit a local shelter, deliver meals, or participate in community service. Teaching children about giving makes Christmas more meaningful.
Delicious Christmas Traditions
20. Prepare a Grand Feast Together Cooking Christmas dinner as a family transforms meal prep into bonding time. Assign tasks based on age and skill level.
21. Try New Recipes Experiment with dishes from different cultures or regions to expand your culinary traditions.
22. Host a Dessert Bar. Set up a spread of pies, cakes, and treats. Let everyone sample and vote on their favorites.
Evening Entertainment
23. Drive Through Holiday Neighborhoods Tour local streets decked out in spectacular decorations. Many communities go all-out with synchronized light displays.
24. Tell Stories by Candlelight Share family tales, make up new stories, or read holiday books in the gentle glow of candlelight for a magical atmosphere.
25. End with Christmas Caroling. Whether around your own piano or visiting neighbors (with permission), singing carols brings the holiday spirit full circle.
Making Your Christmas Day Special
The best things to do on Christmas Day are activities that bring your family together and create lasting memories. Whether you choose outdoor adventures, indoor coziness, or meaningful traditions, the key is being present with loved ones.
Consider mixing high-energy activities with quiet moments to keep everyone happy throughout the day. Remember, there’s no perfect way to celebrate—the magic comes from spending quality time together.
If you’re looking for a spectacular outing that captures the season’s wonder, plan your visit to Christmas at the Tree Farm, where families can experience real Texas snow, enchanting light displays, visits with Santa, and countless festive attractions that make Christmas unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do on Christmas Day with family?
The best activities include cooking together, watching holiday movies, playing games, visiting light displays like Christmas at the Tree Farm, and sharing meaningful traditions that create lasting memories.
What can you do on Christmas Day if you don’t celebrate traditionally?
Enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking or ice skating, host a movie marathon, volunteer at community centers, have a special dinner, or visit festive attractions open for all holiday visitors.
How do I keep kids entertained on Christmas Day?
Balance excitement with structure by planning activities like crafts, outdoor play, new games, baking projects, and visiting holiday attractions that entertain throughout the day.
What are some free things to do on Christmas?
Take nature walks, play in the snow, have dance parties, read holiday stories, call relatives, watch movies, cook together, and drive through decorated neighborhoods without spending money.
Where can I find Christmas events open on Christmas Day?
Many holiday light displays and attractions remain open throughout the season. Check the Christmas at the Tree Farm’s schedule for hours and plan your visit to experience millions of lights and festive activities.