I don’t think there is another season so perfect for creating family traditions as the season of Advent. Over the last few years, we have created an advent calendar filled with little (and big) ways to celebrate the season. Some things on our calendar are can’t miss family traditions, some are new things, some are needed “chores” of the season that we want to reframe and make enjoyable for the whole family. All of them are things that make Christmas special.
banner purchased from Paisley Sprouts
This year I made out my list, scheduled activities appropriately, and stuffed envelopes with small cards sharing the activity of the day. I’ll hang these with a garland on the mantle. Here (in no particular order) are the things that made our list:
– string the popcorn/cranberry garland
– decorate the Christmas tree
– set out nativity
– set out nativity
– enjoy a classic Christmas movie with snacks
– visit the holiday lights village
– buy & donate a child’s gift
– camp out in front of the Christmas tree
– bake Christmas cookies
– purchase & donate a wish list item for a local charity
– write a letter (or draw a picture) for a loved one
– attend the Christmas parade
– donate toys/clothing you are no longer using
– read a Christmas story together
– celebrate parent date night & shop for sibling gift
– make a list of all the things you are grateful for this season
– see Santa
– enjoy an ice cream sundae bar
– go for a walk as a family & warm up at home with hot chocolate
– pick out your gift exchange present
– spa night – after school hair cuts followed by bubble baths, manicures & pedicures
– attend Christmas program
– wrap presents for teachers & gift exchanges
– family game night
– have a pancake dinner
– celebrate
– camp out in front of the Christmas tree
– bake Christmas cookies
– purchase & donate a wish list item for a local charity
– write a letter (or draw a picture) for a loved one
– attend the Christmas parade
– donate toys/clothing you are no longer using
– read a Christmas story together
– celebrate parent date night & shop for sibling gift
– make a list of all the things you are grateful for this season
– see Santa
– enjoy an ice cream sundae bar
– go for a walk as a family & warm up at home with hot chocolate
– pick out your gift exchange present
– spa night – after school hair cuts followed by bubble baths, manicures & pedicures
– attend Christmas program
– wrap presents for teachers & gift exchanges
– family game night
– have a pancake dinner
– celebrate
You can see last year’s list here.
I’d love to hear about your family traditions for this time (or any time!!) of year.
Leave a Reply