Over the years, DIY advent calendars have become a fun and creative way to count down to Christmas, offering a personal touch to the holiday season.
However, the big question is: what do you fill it with? We like to do a mix of small treats to add a bit of excitement to each day, things like single chocolates or candy canes, plus a new family game or festive puzzle.
Plus we've got you covered with these great activities to enjoy at a family in the lead up to Christmas Day!
Activity Ideas:
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Christmas Movie Night
Watch a classic holiday movie like Home Alone or Elf with homemade popcorn and a hot chocolate! -
Make a Gingerbread House
Decorate a gingerbread house with candy, icing, and sprinkles. -
Write Letters to Santa
Sit down with the family and write thoughtful letters to Santa. -
Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt
Drive around town looking for Christmas lights. Create a list of things to spot (e.g., snowman, reindeer, nativity scene). -
Holiday Baking Day
Bake and decorate Christmas cookies, then share them with neighbours, teachers or friends. -
DIY Christmas Ornaments
Make homemade ornaments using craft supplies, like salt dough or paper crafts. You'll find SO many great ideas for this on Pinterest. -
Read a Christmas Book
Gather and read holiday stories before bed. -
Make Snowflakes
Cut paper snowflakes to hang around the house. -
Christmas Carol Karaoke
Sing your favourite Christmas carols as a family karaoke session. -
Donate to a Charity
Choose a charity or toy drive, and take the family to donate toys, food, or clothes. -
Craft Homemade Christmas Cards
Make personalised holiday cards to send to friends and family. -
Host a Hot Chocolate Bar
Set up a DIY hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, whipped cream and sprinkles. -
Decorate the Christmas Tree
Spend an evening decorating the tree together, with holiday music playing - of course! -
Visit a Christmas Market
Stroll through a local Christmas market to soak in the festive atmosphere. -
Make a Christmas Playlist
Curate a holiday playlist of your favourite festive tunes and enjoy them throughout the season. -
Family Game Night
Plan a cozy night with board games or card games while sipping holiday drinks. -
Make a Christmas Countdown Chain
Create a paper chain, removing one link each day until Christmas. -
Attend a Holiday Performance
Check if your community is having any local events or performances. -
Have a Christmas Craft Day
Make wreaths, garlands, or holiday-themed decorations using simple craft supplies. -
Have a picnic and play outdoor games!
Enjoy a picnic (or fish n' chips!) at your favourite local spot, or try somewhere you haven't been to before! -
Christmas Puzzles
Work on a festive jigsaw puzzle together throughout December