Family Things To Do On Christmas Day: Fun Activities For Lasting Memories [Updated On: September 2025]

Enjoy a fun-filled Christmas day with your family. Bake cookies together or create homemade ornaments. Watch classic holiday movies or explore local Christmas lights. Attend a ‘Nutcracker’ performance or play holiday games. Share these fun activities to create lasting memories and strengthen your holiday traditions.

In the afternoon, families can gather for games. Playing board games or card games fosters teamwork and laughter. Crafting holiday cards can also be a delightful activity. This allows families to express creativity while sharing love with friends and relatives.

After dinner, families can indulge in a movie marathon. Choosing holiday-themed films invites everyone to relax together and enjoy the spirit of the season. Finally, sharing a moment of gratitude can deepen connections. Reflecting on the year’s blessings creates a heartwarming conclusion to the day’s activities.

As you ponder these activities, consider how each one can be tailored to fit your family’s unique dynamics. The next section will explore creative ideas for making Christmas even more special, ensuring that your family creates memories that last a lifetime.

Table of Contents

What Fun and Engaging Activities Can Spend Family Time Together on Christmas Day?

The best fun and engaging activities for families to enjoy together on Christmas Day include a variety of traditions and games that promote bonding and joy.

Cooking or baking together
Playing board games or card games
Watching holiday movies
Decorating the Christmas tree
Going for a family walk or hike
Participating in holiday crafts
Volunteering or donating to charity
Organizing a gift exchange
Singing carols or having a karaoke session
Creating a family photo album or scrapbook

These activities cover a range of interests and can cater to different family dynamics. Each brings unique ways to connect, but preferences can vary based on age, cultural traditions, and personal interests. For instance, some may prioritize outdoor activities, while others prefer indoor crafts.

Cooking or Baking Together:
Cooking or baking together allows families to collaborate on meal preparation. Engaging in culinary activities fosters teamwork and creates delicious results. Families can try traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations, or they can experiment with new dishes. According to a 2017 article by the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, cooking together improves communication and strengthens family bonds.
Playing Board Games or Card Games:
Playing board games or card games promotes fun and friendly competition. These games encourage strategic thinking and social interaction. Studies, such as one conducted by the University of Georgia in 2018, reported that regular family game nights can develop stronger family relationships and improve well-being. Families can choose games suited to their age ranges, ensuring everyone participates.
Watching Holiday Movies:
Watching holiday movies together creates a shared experience filled with laughter and nostalgia. Families can select classic films or new releases to stream. The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences highlights that watching movies as a family can enhance emotional connections and provide discussion opportunities afterward.
Decorating the Christmas Tree:
Decorating the Christmas tree is a cherished tradition for many families. Each member can contribute their own decorations or ornaments that symbolize individual memories. According to a survey by the National Christmas Tree Association, over 90% of families in the U.S. have a tradition of decorating a tree, highlighting its significance in holiday celebrations.
Going for a Family Walk or Hike:
Going for a family walk or hike promotes physical activity and appreciation for nature. Spending time outdoors can relieve stress and improve mood. Research from the Journal of Environmental Psychology indicates that outdoor activities can strengthen family bonds and enhance overall mental well-being.
Participating in Holiday Crafts:
Participating in holiday crafts encourages creativity and allows families to create personalized decorations. These activities can involve making ornaments, cards, or other gifts. A study by the University of Florida suggests that family crafting promotes cooperation and improves communication skills among members.
Volunteering or Donating to Charity:
Volunteering or donating fosters a sense of community and empathy. Families can engage in charitable activities, such as serving meals at local shelters or donating toys to children in need. Research by Harvard Business School shows that altruistic activities strengthen family values and increase overall happiness.
Organizing a Gift Exchange:
Organizing a gift exchange can be a fun way to express appreciation for each other. Families can establish guidelines for the exchange, such as a budget limit or themed gifts. According to a Pew Research Center survey, gift-giving traditions significantly enhance family connections during the holidays.
Singing Carols or Having a Karaoke Session:
Singing carols or hosting a karaoke session brings joy and laughter. Music stimulates positive emotions and encourages shared experiences. A study published in the Journal of Music Therapy found that group singing is beneficial for emotional health and can promote bonding across generations.
Creating a Family Photo Album or Scrapbook:
Creating a family photo album or scrapbook preserves memories and stories. Families can work together to compile significant moments from the year or previous holidays. Research by the University of California, Berkeley, shows that reminiscing through shared memories strengthens family relationships, making it a valuable Christmas Day activity.

How Can Families Create New Christmas Traditions That Last?

Families can create new Christmas traditions that last by prioritizing shared experiences, incorporating community involvement, and ensuring adaptability to changing circumstances.

Shared experiences: Families should focus on activities that everyone can participate in and enjoy. Examples include cooking holiday meals together, engaging in festive decorating, or hosting game nights. These activities foster connection and provide opportunities to build lasting memories.

Community involvement: Participating in community activities enhances the holiday spirit. Families can volunteer at local shelters, organize toy drives, or participate in parades. Research by the Corporation for National and Community Service (2019) indicates that charitable involvement strengthens family bonds and fosters a sense of belonging.

Adaptability: Traditions should evolve over time to accommodate changes in family dynamics, such as new family members or differing interests. Families can introduce new elements to existing traditions or create entirely new ones. A study from the Journal of Family Psychology (Smith & Thorne, 2021) highlights the importance of flexibility in maintaining family cohesion during holidays.

By focusing on shared experiences, community involvement, and adaptability, families can establish meaningful and lasting Christmas traditions.

What Creative Christmas Craft Ideas Can Families Enjoy?

Families can enjoy various creative Christmas craft ideas during the holiday season. These activities foster teamwork, creativity, and festive spirit among family members.

Homemade Christmas Ornaments
Christmas Cards
Holiday Wreaths
Advent Calendars
DIY Gift Wrap
Gingerbread Houses
Festive T-Shirts
Pine Cone Decorations

These crafts can vary in complexity and required materials, catering to different ages and preferences. Families can choose to focus on traditional crafts, modern designs, or even incorporate environmentally friendly materials. Each perspective on craft-making holds its unique charm and fun.

Homemade Christmas Ornaments:
Homemade Christmas ornaments allow families to create personalized decorations for their trees. This craft can involve using various materials such as felt, wood, or recycled items. Families can customize ornaments with names and dates, making them unique keepsakes. According to a 2021 survey by the Craft & Hobby Association, 75% of families enjoy creating personalized decorations during the holidays.
Christmas Cards:
Creating Christmas cards can strengthen family bonds and spread holiday cheer. Families can design cards using cardstock, markers, stickers, and family photos. This craft promotes creativity and can even serve as a way for families to communicate with distant relatives. A study from Hallmark in 2019 suggested that sending handmade cards enhances emotional connections among family members.
Holiday Wreaths:
Holiday wreath-making is a fun way to decorate homes for Christmas. Families can gather natural materials like pine branches, or use craft supplies such as foam and ribbons. This craft can be approached artistically, allowing families to express their style. Research by the National Wildlife Federation in 2020 highlighted that crafting with natural materials fosters appreciation for the environment in children.
Advent Calendars:
Families can create personalized Advent calendars to count down the days until Christmas. These can be made using small boxes, craft paper, or even envelopes filled with treats or notes. This craft not only enhances anticipation but also encourages daily family interactions as they open each day’s surprise. A study by the Family Communication Institute in 2022 found that such activities promote family unity and traditions.
DIY Gift Wrap:
Creating DIY gift wrap can be an eco-friendly and creative craft. Families can repurpose newspapers, fabric, or paper bags to design unique gift wrap. This not only reduces waste but also showcases family creativity in presenting gifts. According to research by Green America in 2021, making personalized wrapping significantly reduces the environmental impact of holiday celebrations.
Gingerbread Houses:
Building gingerbread houses is a delicious holiday tradition that many families enjoy. This craft involves baking gingerbread, assembling the house, and decorating it with various candies. It provides a fun edible project that encourages teamwork. A 2020 study from the Culinary Institute revealed that participating in cooking-related crafts fosters creativity and boosts family interaction.
Festive T-Shirts:
Families can design festive T-shirts to wear during holiday festivities or family gatherings. Using fabric paint or iron-on transfers, they can create matching or themed shirts that reflect their holiday spirit. This craft is particularly popular among families with children, as a survey by the Apparel Association in 2021 reported that 60% of families engage in customized clothing activities for special occasions.
Pine Cone Decorations:
Creating decorations from pine cones is a simple and effective craft. Families can collect pine cones from their backyard or a nearby park and decorate them with paint, glitter, or ribbons. This craft is cost-effective and introduces children to natural materials, promoting creativity. A 2022 study from the Eco Kids Project emphasized the educational value of working with natural objects to inspire crafting.

Engaging in these creative crafts not only brings joy to the holiday season but also strengthens family relationships through shared experiences.

Which Delicious Recipes Can Families Cook Together for Christmas Day?

Families can enjoy cooking together on Christmas Day by preparing a variety of festive recipes. Some delicious recipes include:

Gingerbread Cookies
Roast Turkey
Mashed Potatoes
Stuffing
Cranberry Sauce
Holiday Ham
Pumpkin Pie

These popular dishes not only provide a festive atmosphere but also allow family members to engage in the holiday spirit together.

The collaboration in the kitchen can create an enjoyable experience. Cooking together can also bring families closer and foster strong bonds.

Gingerbread Cookies: Gingerbread cookies are a seasonal favorite that families can decorate together. The dough is easy to make with flour, ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. Families can express their creativity by using icing and candy for decorations. According to a survey by the American Bakers Association, 84% of families enjoy baking during the holidays.
Roast Turkey: Preparing a roast turkey becomes a special ritual for many families. The turkey is often seasoned and stuffed with ingredients like celery and onion. Cooking a turkey can involve multiple family members, with some handling the preparation and others tending to the oven. The National Turkey Federation states that around 88% of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that is simple to prepare. Families can take turns peeling, mashing, and seasoning the potatoes. Research from the USDA indicates that 4.6 billion pounds of potatoes were consumed by Americans during the holiday season in 2020, with mashed potatoes being a popular choice.
Stuffing: Stuffing can be customized to include various ingredients such as bread, herbs, and vegetables. Many families share their own unique stuffing recipes passed down through generations. A study by the American Culinary Federation suggests that around 60% of people prefer traditional stuffing during holiday meals.
Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce requires minimal ingredients and preparation. Families can cook fresh cranberries with sugar and water to create a sweet, tangy side. Cooking together can spark discussions about family traditions surrounding cranberry sauce. Research in food history shows that cranberry sauce has been served at Thanksgiving since the early 1800s.
Holiday Ham: Preparing a holiday ham can also be a favorite choice for Christmas dinner. Families can glaze and bake ham together, creating a delicious centerpiece for their meal. The National Pork Board highlights how ham is growing in popularity as an alternative to turkey during the holidays.
Pumpkin Pie: Pumpkin pie is a traditional dessert that often concludes Christmas meals. Families can bake their own pie crust and mix together pumpkin puree, sugar, and spices. It is common for families to pass down recipes for homemade pies, contributing to a sense of heritage related to holiday cooking. According to the American Pie Council, the pumpkin pie ranked as the most popular pie, especially during the holiday season.

Cooking together on Christmas Day serves multiple benefits: it nurtures family relationships, passes down traditions, and creates lasting memories while providing a culinary experience that brings joy to the table.

What Games Are Best for Families to Play Together During the Holidays?

The best games for families to play together during the holidays include various board games, card games, and video games. These games promote interaction, laughter, and teamwork.

Board Games
Card Games
Video Games
Outdoor Games
Puzzle Challenges

These game categories offer diverse opportunities for family fun. Now, let’s explore each type in detail.

Board Games: Board games enhance family bonding through shared experiences. Popular titles like “Monopoly,” “Scrabble,” and “Ticket to Ride” encourage friendly competition. A 2020 survey by the American Tabletop Gaming Association found that 70% of families value board games for creating lasting memories. Board games often require strategic thinking and collaboration, making them ideal for all ages.
Card Games: Card games, such as “Uno,” “Go Fish,” and “Poker,” are versatile and easy to learn. They can be played anywhere and usually require minimal setup. A family study conducted by The Leisure Studies Association in 2019 revealed that card games can enhance communication skills and promote social interaction among family members, strengthening relationships and fostering teamwork.
Video Games: Video games provide an engaging way to connect as a family. Titles like “Mario Kart,” “Just Dance,” and “Overcooked” offer cooperative play options. According to the Entertainment Software Association, 70% of parents appreciate video games for fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills in their children. Video games also appeal to younger audiences, bridging generational gaps in interests.
Outdoor Games: Outdoor games, such as cornhole, frisbee, or capture the flag, facilitate physical activity and enjoyment in nature. These games encourage teamwork and cooperation. The National Parks Service emphasizes the benefits of outdoor play, stating it enhances family bonding while promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Puzzle Challenges: Puzzle challenges promote collaboration and critical thinking. Completing a jigsaw puzzle together can instill a sense of accomplishment and teamwork. Research by the Journal of Family Psychology in 2021 shows that working together on puzzles can improve communication and strengthen family ties.

In summary, these game genres offer various ways for families to connect during the holidays, ensuring memorable and enjoyable experiences together.

How Can Families Give Back Through Volunteering on Christmas Day?

Families can give back on Christmas Day by volunteering in various meaningful ways that foster community spirit and support those in need. Here are several effective methods for families to engage in volunteering:

Serving Meals: Families can volunteer at local shelters or food banks. They often serve warm meals to homeless individuals and families in need. According to a report by the National Alliance to End Homelessness (2020), over 580,000 individuals experience homelessness, highlighting the importance of such efforts.
Donating Gifts: Families can participate in gift drives for underprivileged children and families. Organizations like Toys for Tots collect new toys for children in need. Data from the Toys for Tots Foundation (2021) showed they distributed over 20 million toys in recent years, making a positive impact on countless children’s lives.
Visiting Nursing Homes: Families can spend time with elderly residents in nursing homes. Many elderly individuals feel lonely during the holidays. A study in the Journal of Applied Gerontology (McGowan, 2019) reported that social interaction significantly improves the mental well-being of seniors.
Organizing Community Clean-ups: Families can take part in or organize community clean-up events. This fosters community pride and improves the local environment. Statistics from the Environmental Protection Agency (2020) indicate that community clean-up efforts can lead to a noticeable decrease in litter and pollution levels.
Participating in Charity Runs or Walks: Families can participate in or sponsor local charity runs that benefit various causes. These events not only raise funds but also promote physical health. The American Heart Association (2021) states that physical activity during charity events can encourage more families to engage in regular exercise.
Creating Care Packages: Families can assemble care packages filled with essential items for the homeless. Items such as toiletries, socks, and blankets are often needed. The National Coalition for the Homeless (2020) highlights that distributing these packages can fulfill immediate needs and bring warmth during winter months.

Engaging in these activities allows families to bond while making a positive impact on their communities. Volunteering on Christmas Day not only helps those in need but also instills values of empathy and generosity in family members, especially children.

What Unique Storytelling Activities Can Bring Families Closer on Christmas Day?

Christmas Day can benefit from unique storytelling activities that help families bond and create lasting memories. Engaging in storytelling not only entertains but also strengthens family connections through shared experiences.

Family Story Circle
Create a Holiday Storybook
Storytelling Through Theater
Holiday Movie Night with Discussion
Share Ancestral Stories
Collaborative Storytelling Game

These activities encourage families to come together, share their experiences, and explore different narratives. Each option offers varied opportunities for connection and expression.

Family Story Circle:

The family story circle is an interactive activity that involves every family member sharing a story in turn. In this circle, participants can recount their favorite Christmas memories, family traditions, or even create new tales together. This tradition fosters a sense of belonging and enhances communication skills, as each person’s input is valued.

Create a Holiday Storybook:

Creating a holiday storybook allows families to collaboratively write and illustrate a story. Each member can contribute by adding their ideas and drawings, culminating in a unique keepsake. This activity fosters cooperation and creativity, allowing family members to express themselves creatively. Studies, such as one by the American Psychological Association (2015), indicate that shared creative activities deepen family bonds.

Storytelling Through Theater:

Engaging in a small theatrical performance based on a family story or holiday theme can be engaging for all ages. Families can take turns acting out scenes, which promotes teamwork and enhances imaginative play. This form of storytelling builds confidence and communication, enriching the family experience.

Holiday Movie Night with Discussion:

Families can watch a holiday-themed movie and hold a discussion afterward about its themes and characters. This activity encourages critical thinking and helps family members understand each other’s perspectives. Sharing insights and opinions can lead to richer conversations, promoting connection.

Collecting and sharing ancestral stories provides an opportunity to connect with family heritage. Each family member can share tales about their ancestors or cultural traditions, which fosters appreciation for family history. According to researchers such as Marshall Duke and Robyn Fivush (2001), children with an understanding of their family history tend to have higher self-esteem and resilience.

Collaborative Storytelling Game:

Playing a collaborative storytelling game, where each member contributes a sentence, creates an engaging group narrative. This open-ended format encourages creativity and spontaneity. Games like “Once Upon a Time” allow for imagination while promoting conversation and laughter, which strengthens familial bonds.

By engaging in these storytelling activities, families can create cherished memories, deepen connections, and celebrate the spirit of the season.

How Can Families Celebrate Outdoors on Christmas Day?

Families can celebrate outdoors on Christmas Day by engaging in activities such as hiking, hosting a picnic, organizing a scavenger hunt, and decorating outdoor spaces. Each of these activities encourages togetherness and appreciation of nature during the holiday season.

Hiking: Families can explore local trails. Hiking promotes physical activity and offers a chance to enjoy scenic views. According to the American Hiking Society, hiking reduces stress and improves overall well-being.

Hosting a picnic: Families can prepare a festive picnic. They can bring traditional Christmas treats, hot cocoa, and blankets. Sharing meals outdoors creates a joyful atmosphere. Research in the Journal of Environmental Psychology emphasizes that outdoor meals can enhance mood and create stronger social connections.

Organizing a scavenger hunt: Families can create a themed scavenger hunt. This activity encourages teamwork and creativity. Children can search for holiday-themed items, such as pinecones or specific decorations. The excitement of finding items fosters bonding experiences.

Decorating outdoor spaces: Families can decorate their yards together. They can hang lights, set up festive displays, or create a snowman. Decorating outdoors brings a sense of community and holiday spirit. The visual enjoyment enhances the experience for everyone involved.

These activities not only promote physical activity but also strengthen family bonds, creating cherished memories during the holiday season.

What Movie Marathon Themes Can Enrich Family Time on Christmas Day?

Themed movie marathons can greatly enrich family time on Christmas Day by creating shared experiences and bonding moments.

Here are some popular movie marathon themes for Christmas:

Classic Christmas Films
Holiday Animated Movies
Family-Friendly Comedies
Christmas Adventure Films
Heartwarming Romantic Movies
International Christmas Movies
Festive Fantasy Films

Transitioning from listing potential themes, let’s explore the significance and characteristics of each to inspire your Christmas Day celebrations.

Classic Christmas Films: The theme of classic Christmas films includes timeless movies like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Carol.” These films capture the spirit of Christmas, conveying themes of hope and redemption. According to a survey by the American Film Institute, these classics are often ranked among the favorite holiday films, resonating with audiences across generations.
Holiday Animated Movies: This theme focuses on animated films such as “The Polar Express” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Animated movies bring joy to children and evoke nostalgia for adults. Studies show that animated films can enhance family cohesion, encouraging families to watch together and discuss the messages portrayed.
Family-Friendly Comedies: Family-friendly comedies like “Home Alone” or “Elf” can deliver laughter and entertainment. These movies often include slapstick humor and relatable family scenarios. Research indicates that laughter can strengthen family ties and improve overall mood, making these comedies a popular choice for holiday viewing.
Christmas Adventure Films: This theme includes adventurous tales such as “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” where the wintery setting contributes to the Christmas atmosphere. Adventure films can inspire discussion about bravery and imagination, providing families with opportunities to share their own experiences and dreams.
Heartwarming Romantic Movies: Romantic films set during the holidays, like “Love Actually” and “The Holiday,” highlight themes of love and togetherness. These movies can inspire affectionate exchanges among family members and foster connections. Studies indicate that movies focused on relational narratives can enhance emotional bonding within families.
International Christmas Movies: International movies, such as “Julekalender” (Norway) or “La Bûche” (France), provide cultural insights into how different societies celebrate the holiday. This theme fosters appreciation for diversity. Engaging with international films can broaden perspectives and encourage discussions about traditions from around the world.
Festive Fantasy Films: Films like “The Nightmare Before Christmas” combine Christmas with fantasy elements. These movies captivate both younger and older audiences through creative storytelling and imaginative settings. Studies suggest that fantasy films strengthen family bonds by igniting creativity and encouraging collaborative storytelling.

These themes can create memorable experiences that families cherish, fostering both connection and joy on Christmas Day.

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