When December arrives, something shifts around us. Days grow shorter, the chill sneaks under our coats, yet more lights glow in windows and streets. The pace seems to quicken, but many of us crave a moment to pause and savor the most beautiful weeks of holiday anticipation together.
The magic of Advent isn’t just about surprises under the Christmas tree—it’s in those small, cozy moments shared with loved ones. Inspired by Almost The Weekend, we’re sharing 15 simple ideas you can easily do at home with little to no prep—perfect for sparking new family traditions.
A Shared December Wish List – Experiences, Not Things
Grab some colorful paper or a large sheet, and jot down all the moments you’d love to share this month. Skip material gifts—instead, focus on little joys like an evening board game, baking together, a new storybook, or a friendly snowball fight. Just making the list builds excitement and ensures a sweet shared experience every day.
Board Game Marathon in Festive Spirit
Dust off your favorite old games and try some new ones! Spread a soft blanket, brew some tea or mulled fruit juice, and play until laughter drowns out the winter silence. If your family spans generations, create a mini-tournament so everyone finds a game they love.
DIY Advent Calendar with Personalized Surprises
No crafting skills needed—just 24 small envelopes, clothespins, and some string. Fill each with little treats like baking together, an extra bedtime story, or a puzzle to solve as a team. For kids, this can become the most anticipated morning ritual.
Hot Chocolate Tasting Night
Make several kinds of hot chocolate: spiced cinnamon, orange-flavored, caramel, or even minty. Serve in small mugs, create fun scorecards, and find your family’s official holiday favorite together.
Creating a Family Christmas Playlist
Go on a musical treasure hunt! Everyone picks 3-4 songs they’d love to hear in December—classic carols, modern covers, or tunes that just feel festive to your family. The final playlist becomes a true family soundtrack.
Easy Holiday Card Making
Crafting doesn’t have to be complicated: a few sheets of cardstock, a calm afternoon, and a handful of stickers can do the trick. Cards can feature shared drawings, sweet messages, or even a “Christmas tree” made from kids’ fingerprints. Sending these by mail adds extra joy.
Gingerbread Baking
Short on time? Use ready-made dough but make decorating a shared activity. Create stars, little houses, hearts—anything that brings Christmas to mind. Dripping icing or a crooked house just makes them even more lovable.
Christmas Eve Storytime in Pajamas
Pick a festive book or story, snuggle under a big blanket together, and turn off all the lights. The tale will come alive like a warm hug wrapped around you this December.
Make Your Own Holiday Scent Diffuser
Warm some water and add a few orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and even some apple peels. As it gently simmers, your home will fill with the scent of the season in no time.
Rewatching Christmas Movie Classics
Make a list of movies you watch every year—and those you’ve been meaning to see but never got around to. Grab a blanket, pop some popcorn, light some fairy lights, and start your marathon.
At-Home Photo Shoot with Fun Props
No fancy camera needed. Just some Christmas hats, an old decoration, an ugly sweater, or a few printed funny props. Set the timer and let the moment happen—these will be your most genuine family photos.
Make a Family "Christmas Rulebook"
Write down your shared traditions and the little rules that make Christmas special for your family. For example: “It’s okay to eat cake for breakfast.” or “No phones under the Christmas tree.” This will become a treasured memory.
Build a Cozy Fort in the Living Room – Fun for All Ages
Your fort can be a simple tent made from sheets or a “light bunker” decked out with decorations. The key is to include a story, some snacks, and lots of hugs. Kids will want to stay there for hours.
Charity Day at Home
Pick out toys, books, or clothes that are still in good shape but no longer used. Talk with your kids about why it’s important to brighten someone else’s Christmas. A small gesture can be a huge gift.
