The holiday season isn't just about gifts; it’s about creating memories that light up the hearts of your loved ones. During this festive week there is still time to squeeze in some seasonal activities. Here are some charming ways to celebrate the festive period with family that blend tradition with creativity.

1. Start a New Christmas Eve Tradition

Establish a tradition unique to your family that will become an eagerly awaited ritual. Perhaps it’s unwrapping a single gift, enjoying a hot chocolate bar, or reading "The Night Before Christmas" together. For a twist, consider embracing the Icelandic tradition of Jolabokaflod, a tradition of giving books on Christmas Eve. Choose a mix of festive tales, family classics, and new finds. Bonus points if you include personal favourites that were childhood staples. Christmas Eve will quickly become a magical literary wonderland.

2. Make and Send Personalised Christmas Cards

There’s nothing quite like receiving a card made with love. Gather some craft supplies—glitter, stencils, ribbons, and your imagination! Create cards that reflect your family’s spirit and share your heartfelt messages with friends and relatives.

3. Dedicate a Day to Baking

Nothing spells ‘cosy’ like the aroma of fresh cookies wafting through the house. Pick a day to don matching aprons and whip up festive treats together. Whether it’s gingerbread men, peppermint bark, or classic cookies, the process is as sweet as the treats. Share your baked goodies with neighbours or friends as an edible holiday gesture​.

4. Explore a Christmas Light Trail

Map out the best local Christmas light displays and embark on a glittering evening stroll. Whether it’s a neighbourhood famed for its festive flair or a locally organised council trail, there’s something magical about sharing oohs and aahs with loved ones under the glow of fairy lights. Warm up afterward with mugs of hot cocoa and recount your favourite displays​​.

5. DIY Your Own Christmas Decorations

Inject a personal touch into your festive decor. From salt-dough ornaments to hand-painted baubles, there’s something wonderfully nostalgic about crafting decorations together. Consider making garlands from wrapping paper, popcorn or dried oranges for a vintage look, or venture out into nature to collect foliage to create decorative centrepieces.

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7. Give Back as a Family

Christmas is a time to spread kindness. Volunteer in your community, donate toys to local charities, or assemble care packages for those in need. This act of giving teaches children, and reminds ourselves, the true meaning of the season and fills your own hearts with warmth. It's never too late to give back.

The festive season is what you make of it, so let creativity and love lead the way. Whatever traditions you create or uphold, let them reflect the joy and togetherness that make Christmas truly special.