As the holiday season draws near, excitement mounts, and there is just something magical about celebrating those weeks leading up to Christmas. Whether you are spending it with family, friends, or some time solo, you can make this season extra special by filling it with festive activities. From cozy nights to exciting outings, here are eleven fun and memorable ways to get into the Christmas spirit and savor each moment of the holiday season.
Be Decorating the Christmas Tree Together
Decorating the Christmas tree is one of the most treasured traditions that really signals the start of the holiday season. Involve everyone by picking a theme, be it the classic red and green, silver and gold, or even quirky. Hang special ornaments that tell a story or create new ones together with handmade decorations. It’s a wonderful way to get everyone involved and makes the home full of festivity, shining through till the end of the season.
Host a Cozy Christmas Movie, Marathon
No better way to pass a cold winter’s night than sitting down to a marathon of Christmas movies. Make a cozy setting, blankets, hot cocoa, and a list of holiday classics such as Home Alone, Elf, and A Christmas Carol. It is fun and relaxing and also a good way to get into the spirit of Christmas while catching up on some of the classics or maybe discovering some new favorites.
Go On a Christmas Bar Crawl
For those who just love a festive night on the town, there’s nothing better than a Philadelphia Christmas bar crawl to get holiday cheer with friends. Throughout the city, Philadelphia’s bars bedeck themselves with Christmas lights, holiday tunes, and seasonal drinks, making for a fun Philadelphia Christmas bar crawl. All sorts of creative cocktail ideas abound, and this may be a costume night of holiday outfits, making this a fun holiday theme. If you can’t make it to Philadelphia, research bar crawls in a city near you! And make sure that you plan so that everyone who enjoys the holiday cheer won’t be endangered.
Organize a Secret Santa Gift Exchange
Organize a Secret Santa among friends, family, or coworkers to spice up the excitement of gift-giving. Set a budget and draw names ahead of time so everyone has a chance to find a good, thoughtful, or funny gift for their person. The Secret Santa exchange is one of the best ways to add a bit of mystery and anticipation to the season while keeping gift-giving fun and budget-friendly.
Visit a Christmas Market
Christmas markets are popping up all over the place, filled with holiday cheer, crafts, food, and decorations. Whether it’s a small local market or a big event, meandering through the stalls, enjoying hot cider, and purchasing handmade gifts is an excellent way to spend an evening. Christmas markets frequently offer festive lights, carolers, and unusual items, so it is very easy to feel that holiday magic as you walk around.
Bake And Decorate Christmas Cookies
There’s nothing better than spending the Christmas season with family, or it can be used as a great solitary pastime activity: baking cookies. Choose a few favorite recipes, such as sugar cookies, gingerbread, or shortbread, and add some colorful frosting and sprinkles. It’s great fun and will provide delectable treats to be shared or given to friends and family, spreading just a little bit of that homemade holiday cheer.
Christmas Light Tour
A great, simple, and magical way to enjoy the season is driving around looking at Christmas lights. Some neighborhoods go all out with very elaborate displays that are worth a short drive. Pack some hot chocolate, play holiday tunes, and make a fun night of it. If you are up for walking, many cities offer guided Christmas light tours that show the best displays and local holiday décor.
Holiday Game Night:
Bring holiday cheer inside by having a holiday game night. Christmas trivia, Holiday charades, or even a festive version of Pictionary should do the trick. Add some little prizes, like holiday mugs or ornaments, for the winners. A game night is a good use of time by oneself and around friends, adds laughter, and has even some friendly competition during the holidays.
Handmade Christmas Cards
There is something so special about the personal touch of a handcrafted Christmas card. Gather your craft supplies, such as paper, markers, and stamps, and get creative with holiday designs. Handcrafted cards allow you to personalize each message and add an element that cannot be conveyed with store-bought cards. Please send them to friends and family near and far to share in some holiday warmth and thoughtfulness.
Give to a Local Charity
There is no better time to give back than during the holidays. From donating toys to a children’s hospital, volunteering at a food bank, or supporting a cause close to your heart, helping others in need brings true holiday spirit. Many local charities and shelters have specific holiday drives, making it easy to find ways to give back that align with what matters most to you.
Host an Ugly Sweater Party
Ugly sweater parties are now a funny and playful way to celebrate the holiday season with friends. It involves inviting everyone to put on their best (or worst) Christmas sweaters, then holding a mini contest for the ugliest or most creative one. Add some holiday games and seasonal drinks, and voila. You have the makings of a good laugh and a night full of festivity.
Conclusion
There is always so much one can do and experience during the holiday season. Memories can be made, joy shared, and the Christmas spirit felt by all. Whether at home or out for the festive nights, every one of these events makes the countdown to Christmas a special event. Gather the family and make plans for a special day every day while counting down to the most wonderful time of the year. Enjoy the little things, make new traditions, and let the holiday season fill you with warmth and happiness.
