41 Fun Family Christmas Traditions To Start in 2025

You don't have to stick to the same old family Christmas traditions year after year. This holiday season, why not bring fresh ideas to the table that strengthen bonds and create lasting memories? Imagine baking cookies so delicious they’d make Santa rethink his route, or transforming your living room into a winter wonderland. There’s no shortage of ways to keep the holiday spirit alive!

From fun Christmas traditions like matching pajama dress-ups and family bake-offs to more unique ones such as ice skating theatrical shows, we’ve got the inspiration you need to make this season truly magical. The big question is, which new traditions will you start to turn this Christmas into the one everyone talks about for years to come?

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• Christmas Family Traditions for Foodies
• Unique Christmas Traditions for Families
• Christmas Eve Traditions for Families
• Other Fun Christmas Day Traditions for Families

Christmas Family Traditions for Foodies

1. Take a Cooking Class

Turn your kitchen into that of a five-star restaurant with cooking classes near you. This is a family Christmas tradition that not only makes for good fun but also invaluable learning. While cooking up a storm of delectable foods, you'll learn many valuable culinary lessons from expert chefs — everything from mastering knife techniques to creating showstopping entrées and delectable desserts.

Cooking classes offer hands-on experience with a range of dishes. For example, you could make holiday roasts like honey-glazed ham or prime rib, paired with timeless sides such as creamy mashed potatoes and spiced cranberry sauce. You’ll gain the confidence to whip up tasty meals, which are bound to impress all guests at holiday parties. 

2. Learn From Online Baking Classes

Mix, whisk and bake your way to new holiday memories with online baking classes near you, guaranteed to elevate your family Christmas traditions.  Guided by expert bakers, you’ll learn the tricks of the trade to create delectable holiday goodies like rich fruitcakes, festive Yule logs, delicate cookies and more. 

Whether you’re perfecting classic pastries or trying trendy new treats, these classes offer hands-on fun and the chance to learn invaluable skills. You can surprise your family or neighbors with expertly baked gifts or wow guests with impressive desserts at holiday parties.

3. Explore Online Cookie Decorating Classes

Spend quality time with your loved ones while learning a fun holiday skill through online cookie decorating classes near you. Guided by expert decorators, you’ll master piping techniques, royal icing designs and festive embellishments. Whether you’re crafting classic gingerbread men, intricate snowflakes or whimsical holiday shapes, the decorating possibilities are endless. 

Once your masterpieces are ready, you can spread the holiday cheer by gifting those beautifully decorated cookies to friends, colleagues and neighbors. Try mixing this family Christmas tradition up by adding exciting themes such as holiday movies or classic songs.

4. Mix It up in an Online Mixology Class

Shake up your family Christmas traditions with an online mixology class focused on festive holiday drinks. Learn to craft everything from classic eggnog with a twist to peppermint martinis and spiced mulled wine, creating a menu that delights every guest. 

People love these drinks because they exude a sense of nostalgia, often reminding us of the holiday cheer of years gone by. Plus, with your newfound mixology skills, you can impress guests by taking requests and whipping up creative cocktails and mocktails. 

5. Make Gingerbread Houses

Celebrate the season with icing, candy and creativity as the crafting of gingerbread houses forms part of your family Christmas traditions. These edible creations let families design sweet structures, from charming cottages to grand mansions decorated with gumdrops, candy canes and detailed icing.

To make your gingerbread house unique, consider themed designs. For example, you could go with a rustic log cabin using pretzels, a candy-coated palace or even a gingerbread village. With the right details, it’ll look so impressive you might not even want to eat it! 

6. Sip On Eggnogs

Add some boozy holiday cheer by making eggnog part of your family's Christmas traditions. This festive drink can be enjoyed in its original state or as a base for Christmas cocktails, like a spiced eggnog martini or a rum-infused creation. 

Craft your own batch at home using egg yolks, milk, sugar and your preferred spices and alcohol for a rich, satisfying treat. Of course, this family Christmas tradition isn't only for adults as non-alcoholic versions can also be made for kids. Don't forget to pair your eggnog with sweet treats such as gingerbread cookies or savory snacks like cheese platters for delicious, hearty snacktimes.  

7. Organize a Cookie Exchange With Neighbors

Kick off the holiday season by hosting a cookie exchange with your neighbors. This family Christmas tradition allows people in a neighborhood to share and receive love in the form of a variety of delicious treats, and isn't that what the season is all about? There are endless types of Christmas cookies to make, too. From snickerdoodles and gingerbread cookies to crisp biscotti and oatmeal cranberry cookies, the choice is yours.

8. Rejoice In a Christmas Feast

Gather around for a Christmas feast overflowing with delicious dishes. While other traditional meals take place throughout the year, a Christmas lunch or dinner is often one that holds the most excitement. Incorporate hearty options like honey-glazed ham, prime rib or a juicy Wellington to have everyone going back for seconds. For sides, try chestnut stuffing or a festive cranberry-orange salad.

Be sure to explore Christmas Day table setting ideas like candlelit masterpieces, themed napkin rings or nostalgic ornaments woven into the décor. If you'd prefer to worry less about color schemes and more about delicious food choices, visit any of the restaurants open on Christmas Day. Either way, this is one of the best family Christmas traditions, bringing loved ones together for moments of joy and laughter.

9. Create a Family Christmas Cookbook

Create a keepsake that will be cherished for many years to come, like a family Christmas cookbook. The best part about this family Christmas tradition is that the book can be never-ending, with more recipes added year after year. 

Gather favorite recipes like Grandma’s secret cinnamon rolls or Uncle Joe’s overnight eggnog French toast, all of which will make beloved Christmas breakfast ideas even more special. Make it even more sentimental by adding family anecdotes and little notes about each member, creating a meaningful keepsake for future generations to adore.

10. Host an Annual Family Bake-Off

Add some friendly competition to your family Christmas traditions with an annual family bake-off. It encourages everyone to show off their baking skills and brings generations together for precious laughter and magical taste tests. Gather everyone to whip up their best holiday treats, from gingerbread masterpieces to chocolate cakes.

Add a theme to this family Christmas tradition for even more excitement; festive cookies or classic holiday desserts are two of many popular choices. Why not introduce secret ingredients that must be used and then identified during the tasting for extra points? The best part is you’ll have a table full of tasty desserts perfect for gifting or enjoying at holiday gatherings. 

Unique Christmas Traditions for Families

11. Head to a Holiday Market 

Immerse your loved ones in the festive spirit at a holiday market, one of the best family Christmas traditions around. Originating from Europe’s medieval era, these markets bring old-world charm to modern streets with stalls filled with handmade crafts, ornaments and seasonal treats. If you find yourself in Europe, don’t miss the chance to explore European Christmas Markets, where this beloved tradition began. Iconic destinations like Germany, Austria and France offer magical lights, mulled wine and artisanal goods that capture the true essence of the season.

This is where you can hunt for unique finds, especially if you’re looking for fun Christmas gifts for mom. You'll come across custom jewelry, cozy scarfs and handcrafted candles, amongst a host of other possible gifts. With amazing foods like schnitzel sandwiches and peppermint hot chocolate also available, this is a must-add to your list of annual family Christmas traditions. 

12. Go Ice Skating

Glide into one of the most exciting family Christmas traditions by hitting the ice at your local rink. Whether outdoors beneath the twinkling stars or indoors under radiant festive lights, skating creates thrills that warm even the chilliest of nights.

If you’re seeking fun Christmas activities, this one should be near, if not at the top of your list. You can race with your kids, perfect your spins or simply sip hot cocoa rink-side. Some venues even offer figure skating lessons or ice hockey, making it one of the best family Christmas traditions to enjoy together.

13. Snap Family Photos 

Capture each Christmas season with family holiday photos that go beyond the typical posed snapshot. Make it special with meaningful settings, like a cozy living room decked out in holiday lights or a snowy outdoor spot. 

You can have everyone don their most outrageous ugly Christmas sweaters for playful shots or capture candid moments, like a family snowball fight. Fresh photo ideas add amusement to your family's Christmas traditions and provide memorable holiday cards to share.

14. Visit a Christmas Tree Farm

Make visiting a Christmas tree farm part of your family's Christmas traditions for an extra activity to look forward to. Head out together to find the perfect evergreen, whether you cut your own or pick from pre-cut options. 

Many farms offer more than just trees, with hot cocoa brewing and even visits from Santa to make the outing even more special. Some farms offer activities like wreath-making workshops, Christmas markets and live music, turning tree-hunting into a full day of festive family fun.

15. Enjoy the Magic of a Theatrical Christmas Show

Take your family out for a night of holiday entertainment by watching classic theatrical Christmas shows. Enjoy masterpieces such as "The Nutcracker" or "A Christmas Carol," both seasonal classics that many families simply wouldn't be without at Christmas time! This is one of the best family Christmas traditions to enjoy on weekends or during the winter break, bringing holiday magic and emotions to life.

16. Decorate Your Christmas Tree

Decorate your home with a Christmas tree, which will no doubt serve as the centerpiece of your abode and add immense joy to your family's Christmas traditions. There are endless possibilities, from a fragrant real fir to a glittering artificial tree. 

You can find them at local tree farms or go to specialty stores for pre-lit and themed options. For decorations, you can choose a classic red-and-gold theme or try a winter wonderland look with white ornaments and frosted garlands. Top it off with a star or angel and turn this into one of the most anticipated family Christmas traditions. 

17. Organize a Secret Santa Party

Rock your next holiday gathering with a Secret Santa party, arguably one of the most exciting family Christmas traditions. Each participant draws a name in secret and buys a thoughtful present for their chosen person, and no one knows who their Secret Santa is until the gifts are revealed! 

It breaks the mold of predictable presents under the tree and adds a fun twist. If you have to find last-minute Christmas gifts, opt for creative options like personalized ornaments or DIY gift baskets filled with your giftee's favorite treats. 

18. Play Christmas Games

Turn up the heat with Christmas games, which add a dash of friendly competition to your family Christmas traditions. Keep everyone entertained with holiday classics like Christmas Charades or a spirited round of Christmas Family Feud. 

If the gang feels like trying more unique games, try something like Reindeer Antler Ring Toss or even a gingerbread house decorating contest. Sweeten the deal by giving out prizes like holiday treats, small gift cards or Christmas mugs — because who doesn’t love a little extra incentive? 

19. Write a Letter to Santa 

Get creative and write a heartfelt letter to Santa. It’s one of the best family Christmas traditions to get your kids into the holiday spirit. Encourage everyone to list their wishes and share their gratitude for the year. Wishes can range from toys, books and games for the little ones to furniture and kitchen appliances for the adults.

Place it in a special envelope, add a first-class mail stamp and address it to the North Pole. While it may not truly travel there, it’s still a great way to keep the holiday spirit alive and one of the most innocent family Christmas traditions to enjoy together.

20. Have Fun at a Christmas Parade

Get swept up in the excitement of a Christmas parade. This is easily one of the most lively family Christmas traditions; between marching bands, dazzling floats and Santa’s grand appearance, there’s no shortage of festive fun to be had. 

Some towns have more unique shows, such as boat parades with glowing vessels or even holiday-themed light shows. Take your kids along with their favorite holiday treats, like (non-alcoholic) eggnog, cotton candy or warm cookies. 

Christmas Eve Traditions for Families

21. Put Out Reindeer Food 

Get creative this season with reindeer food-crafting, a festive activity in which families sprinkle a special mix outside on Christmas Eve to guide Santa's reindeer to their home. Typically made with oats, colorful sprinkles and sometimes glitter, this mixture is placed in small bags and often accompanied by a poem, explaining its purpose.

Originally intended to spark anticipation on Christmas Eve, reindeer food-crafting allows kids to feel like they’re helping Santa on his journey, making it one of the most essential family Christmas traditions for little ones (and the reindeer). 

22. Plan a Christmas Movie Marathon

Snuggling up for a seasonal movie marathon will instantly put you in the festive mood. From timeless classics like "Home Alone" to modern favorites like "The Polar Express," this is a family Christmas tradition that everyone can enjoy together. 

Make it extra special with popcorn drizzled in holiday-themed toppings, steaming mugs of hot cocoa or homemade Christmas cookies. Don’t forget to wear matching Christmas pajamas or your favorite ugly sweaters to amp up the festive vibes.

23. Let Everyone Open One Present 

Build excitement for the big day by letting everyone open one gift on Christmas Eve. For kids, it’s the ultimate family Christmas tradition since they probably won't be able to contain their excitement.

When finding gifts, you can choose meaningful or useful ones. For example, if you’re looking for Christmas gifts for dad, consider a portable grill, a personalized leather wallet or a whiskey-tasting set. This tradition keeps the spirit alive and stretches the excitement of family Christmas traditions even more.

24. Bake Cookies for Santa 

Immerse yourselves in one of the most famous family Christmas traditions of all time by baking holiday cookies for Santa. This tradition dates back to the 1930s, during the Great Depression. Parents taught their children the importance of giving to others while simultaneously showing gratitude for the gifts they received.

To this day, this family Christmas tradition lives on. By baking and setting out cookies on Christmas Eve, families keep the fascination of the holiday alive, sparking excitement and wonder in children. It’s a way to nurture belief in Santa, encouraging kids to engage in the magic of giving and receiving. 

25. Dress Your Pets Up in Holiday Costumes

Get absolutely everyone in your family into the holiday spirit with this often-overlooked family Christmas tradition. Not only will your pets look absolutely adorable, but your holiday photos will stand out even more. 

Rewarding them with treats will keep them happy and get them in the holiday mood, too. You can dress them up in all types of festive clothing, such as Santa, an elf or a reindeer. This ensures you don’t leave your pets out of your family's Christmas traditions and gives others something to swoon over. 

26. Build a Snowman

Transform a snowy yard into a winter wonderland as you and your family bring a snowman to life. This is one of the most classic family Christmas traditions and something everyone is sure to love. 

Whether you prefer a traditional Frosty with a carrot nose and button eyes or a more unconventional character, let your imagination run wild. If you want to go the extra mile, you can add fun touches like a hat, scarf and earmuffs. You can turn this into one of the most exciting family Christmas traditions by having a friendly snowball fight or building snow forts. 

27. Attend a Church Service

Unite with family and friends for a meaningful church service — one of the cornerstone family Christmas traditions around the world. These services celebrate the birth of Christ and often feature candlelight ceremonies, carols, scripture readings and heartfelt prayers.

Attending church on Christmas Eve offers families a chance to pause and step away from the commercial holiday rush. It’s a special time to reconnect with faith, reflect and express gratitude. These are all valuable lessons to pass on to children, making it one of the most important family Christmas traditions for those whose beliefs align with it.

28. Visit a Nursing Home

Brighten the holidays for seniors by making a nursing home visit. This is one of the most meaningful family Christmas traditions as it adds much-needed love and joy to those who may feel isolated. 

You can engage residents with self-care activities like carol singing, cookie decorating or even playing a few rounds of holiday bingo. Consider gifting thoughtful gifts like personalized photo albums or care packages with holiday goodies. Spend quality time with those who need it most and make this one of the most memorable family Christmas traditions for more than just your loved ones.

29. Go On a Christmas Eve Hike

Lace up your boots and take your loved ones on a Christmas Eve hike. It’s one of the best activities for those seeking exciting family Christmas traditions that get the whole family outdoors.

You can revel in Mother Nature’s crisp air, snow-dusted trees and stunning views. Many iconic spots like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon transform into breathtaking winter wonderlands with powdery trails and frosted cliffs. This peaceful family Christmas tradition is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and de-stress after a fraught year.

30. Be Amazed by a Christmas Light Tour 

Take a tour of the many festive light displays in your city. This dazzling family Christmas tradition is a long-standing practice that people take to new heights every year. One option is to visit drive-through light tours, where your car becomes a front-row seat with millions of twinkling bulbs and massive light tunnels. 

There are also mesmerizing displays to be enjoyed at zoos around the country, with plenty of wildlife-inspired sculptures, illuminated pathways and special treats for kids. You could even take a simple stroll through elaborately decorated neighborhoods, inspiring the adornment of your own home. 

31. Create DIY Christmas Ornaments 

Personalizing your ornaments is the perfect family Christmas tradition for creative clans. Each family member can add their unique touch to the display, making every ornament tell a story. 

Try out-of-the-box ideas like wooden-bead garlands, hand-painted clay baubles or even tiny snow globes made from clear ornaments. You can even hold ornament-making contests to pick your favorites and include prizes to add friendly competition. Arts and crafts naturally bring people together, and isn't that what family Christmas traditions are all about? 

Other Fun Christmas Day Traditions for Families

32. Make Advent Calendars

Make every day leading up to Christmas extra special with advent calendars, one of the best family Christmas traditions for building holiday anticipation. These festive calendars count down each December day with surprises tucked behind tiny compartments, traditionally revealing chocolates, small toys or heartfelt messages.

Try filling the days with mini crafts and suggestions for family activities, like baking gingerbread houses or creating handmade ornaments. This family Christmas tradition promises excitement every day for a memorable holiday season.

33. Read Christmas Books

Cozy up for a family Christmas tradition that sparks joy and strengthens family bonds. It’s a great way to keep the holiday spirit alive, immersing kids in the magical tales of elves, Santa and all the enchanting stories that make this momentous celebration extra special. 

There are many classical reads to choose from, like "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "The Night Before Christmas." Pair this family Christmas tradition with mugs of creamy hot chocolate topped with marshmallows or festive cookies, because why not?

34. Dress Up in Christmas Pajamas

Break out the ugly sweaters and matching pajamas for a Christmas family tradition that never gets old. Whether you opt for festive onesies or host an ugly sweater contest with candy prizes, it’s worth dusting off those holiday outfits for a night of fun. 

Get everyone involved in this family Christmas tradition with a holiday fashion show, where even Santa would be proud to judge the tackiest attire. Gather by the fire in your matching sets, snap hilariously memorable family photos and settle in for a cozy movie marathon. 

35. Go to a Tree Lighting Ceremony

Gather your loved ones to experience the magic of your city’s tree-lighting ceremony. These events bring communities together and generally mark the start of the holiday season. 

As one of the most cherished family Christmas traditions, attending a tree lighting helps usher in festive cheer. Beyond the lights, you may find festive markets, live music, parades and even visits from Santa. Be sure to mark the date and explore various tree-lighting ceremonies in and around your area. 

36. Sing Christmas Carols

Ignite holiday cheer with a round of Christmas caroling. This is one of the most fun family Christmas traditions, strengthening bonds with loved ones and allowing budding pop stars in the family to shine. Rooted in centuries-old customs, Christmas caroling involves groups of friends and families singing festive tunes door-to-door or in community spaces. 

With a mix of traditional songs like Silent Night and Jingle Bells, and more modern takes from the likes of John Legend and Mariah Carey, smiles are guaranteed. Whether you join an organized group or host your own caroling party, it can become one of those essential family Christmas traditions that you look forward to every year.

37. Meet Santa

Meeting Santa is one of the most exciting family Christmas traditions that's sure to get your kids hyped up. Before the visit, encourage your children to make heartfelt wish lists to share with Santa. Be sure to take photos — they're sure to become cherished keepsakes for years to come. 

You can meet Santa in a local mall, a festive holiday market or an enchanting winter wonderland. It’s one of those family Christmas traditions that nurtures a sense of wonder in little ones and keeps the holiday spirit alive. 

38. Hold a White Elephant Gift Exchange

Starting your holiday celebrations with a White Elephant gift exchange is one of the most entertaining family Christmas traditions around. Each participant brings a wrapped gift, typically something quirky or laugh-inducing. 

Players draw numbers to decide the picking order during this family Christmas tradition, choosing to either unwrap a new gift or steal an already-opened one from someone else. There’s a cap on how many times a gift can be stolen, keeping the game competitive yet playful. Consider unique gifts like a mini waffle maker, a burrito blanket or silly slippers. 

39. Gift Christmas Presents 

Finding and giving presents is one of the most treasured family Christmas traditions. It's one that people often look forward to the most, especially kids! To ensure your gift is received with the utmost enthusiasm, consider gifting surprises like a handmade scrapbook filled with memories, unique experiences like food tours or cooking classes, or concert tickets to see their favorite artists.

Make the gift-wrapping process a heartfelt experience by using personalized wrapping paper, adding ribbons or even tucking in a small handwritten card with a thoughtful note. Such a considerate touch makes this family Christmas tradition more meaningful and fills the heart of the person giving the gift just as much as the one receiving it.

40. Fill Christmas Stockings

Nothing adds excitement to family Christmas traditions like sentimental Christmas stockings. This festive activity, often the final piece of the gift-giving puzzle, is often overlooked or thrown together at the last minute. Well, no more!

Traditionally hung to hold gifts, stockings today are decorated to add personal flair. Consider creating unique stuffers like colorful socks filled with quirky candles, jewelry or fun bath bombs. In terms of design, you could add personalized embroidered names, use rustic burlap stockings or add chic and luxurious velvet touches. Get it right, and this is a family Christmas tradition that your children will one day pass down to their own! 

41. Organize an Annual Toy Drive

Make a difference and put a smile on kids' faces this season by participating in an annual toy drive. This heartfelt family Christmas tradition ignites one of the simplest, most powerful feelings in those who receive the gifts — joy. 

Get involved by volunteering to sort and wrap gifts at a collection location, or by organizing a neighborhood toy collection. Donating is another way to make a lasting impression. Consider gifts that children would love, like art kits, board games or sports equipment. There will always be people in need, making this unique Christmas tradition one that you can be part of for many years to come.

Whether you want to light up the season with epic cookie bake-offs, whimsical caroling adventures, charity drives or festive movie marathons, we hope you've found the inspiration you need to make this holiday season one for the books. Who knows? This year may just be the start of a family Christmas tradition that's upheld for years, even generations, to come.

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