The holidays are hectic, for better or bad. Decorating, buying, and attending school performances might all feel like a lot at once. Take a deep breath and dive in; once you do, you’ll see how amazing the bustle really is.
All of December is a perfect time to take things easy, use up those unused vacation days, and spend quality time with loved ones celebrating the holiday season. You can start counting down the days till Christmas with an advent calendar on December 1 and end with everyone in the family waking up on Christmas morning dressed alike in matching pajamas (if that’s your thing).
You don’t have to be in a place where you can go sledding every day or drink mulled wine while reading a Christmas novel by the fire to experience the magic. There is plenty for snowbirds to enjoy in their own communities and further afield this December. (Would you like to visit a mystical snow village?)
This collection of festive pursuits for young and old is sure to provide the motivation you need. Make a seasonal dessert, play a holiday-themed game, or spend some quality time together as a couple while watching Santa-themed films on Netflix while surprising the kids with a homemade hot chocolate bar before going light-gazing. Almost any choice you make will be met with a round of Santa-plause from the whole family.
Come see the Big Guy
Is it even Christmas if you don’t go to Santa’s workshop? During the holiday season, you can visit Santa in many different locations, including Christmas tree farms, shopping centers, and even some chambers of commerce. Macy’s even has a virtual visit with Santa!
Go to a Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Light a tree to celebrate the beginning of Advent. Many communities hold their own tree-lighting rituals, but if you can’t find one in your area, you can always watch the one held in Rockefeller Center.
Gather everyone together for a holiday photo shoot.
Get everyone in the family (even the dogs) into festive attire as soon as possible and take a memorable photo for your Christmas card. Invest in the services of a skilled artist if you want a keepsake to truly cherish. Create a seasonal setting in your own lawn or house if you’re on a tighter budget.
Get a Holiday-themed Collection Going
There is an abundance of train sets, vintage ornaments, Santa figurines, and other Christmas-themed souvenirs. Find your niche, and begin a collection that will grow with you year after year.
Create a crib scene depicting the birth of Jesus
Create a nativity scene to remind you of the true meaning of Christmas and display it on your fireplace or entry table. This activity is perfect for explaining the history of the holiday to children, and the end product can be used as seasonal decor as well.
Sing some Christmas Carols or Karaoke
How about this as a great way to get into the holiday mood? Spread the sounds of the season throughout your home. There is no shortage of wonderful Christmas songs to add to your playlist (and sing karaoke to) this season, from classics like “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells” to more recent blockbusters like “All I Want for Christmas Is You.”