The Christmas holidays are a magical time to create lasting memories with your family. With the festive lights, cozy gatherings, and endless activities, it’s the perfect season to bond and celebrate togetherness. If you’re lucky enough to live in an entertainment hub like New York, your options are practically limitless—but also, they can feel overwhelming. That’s where this guide comes in. From exploring your city to engaging in classic holiday traditions, here are ten ideas to make this Christmas the most fun and memorable one yet.
- Create a DIY Christmas Workshop
There’s something special about creating your own holiday decorations and gifts. This year, transform your living room into a DIY Christmas workshop. Start with simple projects like making paper snowflakes, decorating baubles, or crafting homemade wreaths. If you’re feeling more ambitious, build gingerbread houses or create personalized stockings with fabric paint and glitter.
The beauty of this activity lies in its ability to engage everyone, regardless of age. Young children can enjoy finger painting ornaments, while older kids and adults can take on more intricate crafts. It’s a great way to spark creativity, foster teamwork, and make unique keepsakes that will remind you of this special holiday season for years to come.
- Explore Your City’s Hidden Gems
Even if you think you know your city inside and out, the holidays are a perfect time to uncover its lesser-known treasures. While cities like New York have many entertainment options, not all of them are family-friendly. Moreover, the city is quite expensive. Therefore, you need options that are not just appropriate for your family but also affordable.
Consider visiting the Bethel Woods Center in New York, a unique destination packed with activities for all ages. Located at the historic site of the 1969 Woodstock festival, this venue offers a blend of history, culture, and family fun. During the Christmas season, the center comes alive with festive events, from holiday lights displays to hands-on workshops. Kids under five can enjoy free admission to the museum, making it a budget-friendly outing.
The center also hosts interactive exhibits where kids and adults alike can learn and play together. For example, their outdoor spaces are perfect for exploring, and their seasonal programs often include live music, craft fairs, and family-friendly performances. Exploring spots like this not only allows you to enjoy the holiday spirit but also provides a chance to learn something new as a family.
- Go Ice Skating Together
Few activities scream “holiday fun,” quite like ice skating. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, it’s an experience that guarantees laughter and bonding. Local rinks often transform into winter wonderlands during the holiday season, complete with festive music, sparkling lights, and hot cocoa stands.
Ice skating is perfect for families because it accommodates all skill levels. Younger children can hold onto skating aids, while teens and adults can show off their moves (or laugh at each other’s falls). It’s a physical activity that gets everyone moving and helps burn off some of that holiday feast.
- Host a Christmas Movie Marathon
For those cozy nights when you want to stay in, a Christmas movie marathon is the perfect solution. Gather the family, pile on the blankets, and turn your living room into a makeshift theater. Choose a mix of classics like Home Alone and It’s a Wonderful Life, along with newer favorites like The Christmas Chronicles.
To elevate the experience, set up a DIY popcorn bar with toppings like caramel, chocolate drizzle, and sprinkles. You could even create themed snacks based on the movies you’re watching. The key is to keep the atmosphere relaxed and fun. These small moments of togetherness make the holidays truly special.
- Bake and Exchange Holiday Treats
Baking during the holidays isn’t just about making something delicious; it’s about the memories created along the way. Choose a day to bake as a family, and let everyone participate in the process. Kids can roll dough or decorate cookies, while older family members handle the oven and frosting details.
Make a variety of treats, like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and holiday fudge. Once your creations are ready, consider organizing a treat exchange with neighbors or friends. This activity will fill your home with the comforting aroma of baked goods while spreading holiday cheer to those around you.
- Organize a Family Game Night
A family game night during the holidays is a surefire way to create laughter-filled memories. Dust off your collection of board games or try something new, like trivia, charades, or a holiday-themed scavenger hunt. For an extra festive twist, you can even create your own Christmas-themed game, such as holiday bingo or a trivia quiz featuring family memories from past Christmases.
To make the night feel even more special, add some simple touches, like setting up a snack station with cookies, candy canes, and hot cocoa. Let everyone take turns picking their favorite games to ensure it’s fun for all age groups. A little friendly competition and a lot of laughter make this a perfect bonding activity.
- Volunteer as a Family
One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the holiday season is by giving back to your community. Volunteering as a family teaches children the value of kindness and generosity while also bringing everyone closer together. Look for local opportunities such as helping at a food bank, serving meals at a shelter, or participating in a toy or clothing drive.
If you can’t find an organized event, create your own initiative as a family. Gather gently used items to donate or bake cookies to deliver to neighbors or community workers. These acts of service help instill gratitude and emphasize the true spirit of the season—giving.
- Plan a Family Photoshoot
Capture the magic of the holiday season by organizing a family photoshoot. Choose a festive theme, such as matching Christmas pajamas, colorful sweaters, or classic winter wear, and pick a scenic location like a snowy park or your decorated living room.
If you don’t want to hire a professional photographer, set up a DIY photoshoot at home. Use props like wrapped presents, Christmas lights, or a decorated tree to create a festive backdrop. Let everyone take turns posing or snapping pictures, and make the experience fun and relaxed. These photos will become cherished memories you can look back on for years to come.
