Just like almost everything else in 2020, many Christmas traditions have to be modified this year. That trip to Grandma’s house turned into a video call. That annual Christmas concert at school became a virtual sing-a-long. And that Christmas Eve church service is now live streaming. Although things may look a little different this year, you can still create the magic of Christmas at home with your family. Check out this list of at-home Christmas activities if you need a little bit of inspiration!
Decorate gingerbread houses (with a twist!)
Decorating gingerbread houses is one of our favorite holiday traditions! Grocery stores everywhere are making it easy on you by offering pre-assembled gingerbread making kits. If you want to mix things up this year, try making a not-so-gingerbread house! You can use basically anything you find in the pantry! Here’s a few ideas:
- Graham crackers
- Pretzels
- Rice Krispie treats
- Sugar cubes
- Candy canes
- Poptarts
- Waffle cones
Make Christmas cookies
You can’t go wrong with some family baking time! Whether you make a traditional sugar cookie or gingerbread man, I bet your neighbors would love them, too. Leave a cookie bag or tin on your neighbors’ porch for them to enjoy, and spread some Christmas cheer!
Here’s 60+ recipes from delish.com.
Family photoshoot
What better time to take family photos than when everyone is home, the house is decorated, and you have extra time together? This Christmas activity could become a tradition in the years to come!
Slumber party under the Christmas tree
Bring the family campout indoors! Mimic the sensation of sleeping under the stars by snuggling up next to the Christmas tree.
Make Christmas ornaments
Document your 2020 Christmas memories with handmade ornaments.The kids will love any of these salt dough crafts. Or get more DIY ornament ideas here.
Wear (or make) tacky Christmas sweaters
There are many giggles to be had with a tacky sweater party. If you don’t own one, make one!
Build a snowman (with or without snow)
If there’s no snow on the ground at your house this Christmas, have no fear! You can still bring Frosty to life with a little creativity. Here are a few snow alternatives for snowman building:
- Sculpt cheese
- Stack marshmallows
- Mold sand
- Create with recycled materials
- Dress up a tree
Make homemade s’mores
Roast marshmallows in the fireplace or warm them in the microwave to enjoy this delicious winter snack! Make sure Mom and Dad are close by for these fiery Christmas activities!
Video chat family and friends
Stay in touch with your loved ones and keep traditions alive with video chatting. You can share moments like opening presents, praying for your meal, and playing games with family and friends.
Play Christmas karaoke
All you need is a “microphone” and some holiday tunes to play Christmas karaoke!
Host a movie marathon
Get comfy in your favorite jammies, pop some popcorn, and snuggle up in front of the tv for some holiday movies.
Neighborhood caroling
Brighten your neighbors’ day with some (socially distant) Christmas carols!
Bless a family with dinner
‘Tis the season for giving! Whether you know someone who won’t have much on the table this Christmas or can’t handle much more on their plate, bless them with a free meal. Homemade, store bought, or carry-out…doesn’t matter!
Tour the Christmas lights
Scope out the best Christmas light displays in town. You can even come up with a judging system to make it interesting!
Make an igloo
If you’ve been blessed with a white Christmas, you can make your igloo out in the yard. For most of us in southwest Missouri, we’ll have to get creative on this one. Get the whole family working together to make an igloo out of cardboard boxes, furniture, whatever you can think of!
Drop a comment below with some of your favorite at-home Christmas activities!
