The Christmas season is a time for family, fun, and creating special memories. While big outings and events are exciting, sometimes the most meaningful moments happen right at home. Whether you’re looking to stay cozy or simply enjoy quality time, here are family-friendly stay at home holiday events you can host.Here are some of the best stay-at-home events to make this Christmas season magical for the whole family.
1. Host a Christmas Movie Marathon
A Christmas movie marathon is a classic way to enjoy the season together as a family. Pick a day (or several) to snuggle up on the couch with your favorite holiday films. From timeless classics like It’s a Wonderful Life and Home Alone to newer favorites like The Grinch and The Christmas Chronicles, there’s something for everyone. Make it extra special by setting up a hot chocolate bar with marshmallows, whipped cream, and festive toppings. Add cozy blankets, popcorn, and Christmas-themed snacks for a complete movie-watching experience.
2. Christmas Cookie Bake-Off
Turn your kitchen into a holiday bakery with a family Christmas cookie bake-off! Each family member can choose a favorite cookie recipe, whether it’s classic sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or chocolate chip delights. Set up decorating stations with sprinkles, icing, and candies, and let everyone’s creativity shine. You can even have a friendly competition to see who designs the best cookie. Afterward, enjoy your treats with a cup of hot cocoa or wrap them up as gifts for friends and neighbors.
3. DIY Christmas Craft Night
Get the family’s creative juices flowing with a DIY Christmas craft night. You can make homemade ornaments, wreaths, or even Christmas cards to send to loved ones. Simple craft kits or easy DIY projects like paper snowflakes, salt dough ornaments, or pinecone decorations are perfect for all ages. Set up a crafting table with glitter, paint, ribbons, and other festive supplies. Not only is this a fun way to spend time together, but you’ll also have personalized holiday decorations to treasure for years to come.
4. Virtual Christmas Carol Karaoke
If your family loves to sing, a virtual Christmas carol karaoke night is the perfect stay-at-home event! You can set up a karaoke machine or simply use YouTube karaoke videos to sing along to your favorite holiday tunes. For added fun, invite extended family members and friends to join in virtually through Zoom or FaceTime. Don’t forget to dress up in your most festive Christmas sweaters or Santa hats, and keep the holiday spirit alive with songs like “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Frosty the Snowman.“
5. Christmas Storytime and Pajama Night
For a relaxing yet festive evening, plan a Christmas storytime and pajama night. Gather the family in the living room in their coziest pajamas and read classic holiday stories like The Night Before Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, or The Polar Express. You can also take turns reading or even make up your own Christmas tales. To make it extra special, serve warm milk, cookies, and holiday-themed snacks while everyone listens to the stories by the glow of the Christmas tree.
6. Holiday-Themed Family Game Night
Add a twist to your regular family game night by making it holiday-themed! Play Christmas trivia, Pictionary with holiday phrases, or a festive charades game where you act out Christmas characters or events. You can also create a holiday scavenger hunt in your home by hiding small Christmas-themed objects like ornaments, candy canes, or festive figurines, and giving everyone clues to find them. Games like Elf Monopoly or Christmas Bingo are great ways to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
7. Virtual Family Christmas Party
If you’re unable to gather with extended family and friends in person this year, host a virtual Christmas party from the comfort of your own home. Use video calls to connect with loved ones and create a schedule of fun virtual activities, such as a Christmas sweater contest, holiday-themed trivia, or a virtual gift exchange. You can even coordinate and have everyone enjoy the same snacks and drinks for a more connected feel. This is a great way to maintain traditions and celebrate together, no matter the distance.
8. Christmas Light Show at Home
Bring the magic of outdoor Christmas light displays into your home by setting up your own indoor light show. Decorate a room with strings of twinkling Christmas lights, candles, and LED candles to create a cozy and festive atmosphere. You can also project light displays on the walls or ceiling for an added visual effect. Play soft Christmas music in the background and spend the evening relaxing together, enjoying the peaceful glow of your DIY winter wonderland.
9. Christmas-Themed Cooking Show
Turn your kitchen into a festive cooking show by preparing a holiday feast as a family. Choose classic Christmas dishes like roasted turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, or festive side dishes, and get everyone involved in the cooking process. Each family member can be responsible for a different dish, and younger kids can help with simpler tasks like mixing, stirring, or decorating desserts. To make it even more fun, pretend you’re on a holiday cooking show and take turns narrating your culinary creations!
10. Countdown to Christmas with a DIY Advent Calendar
Create anticipation for Christmas with a DIY advent calendar that the whole family can participate in. You can make your own by filling small bags or envelopes with treats, handwritten notes, or activity ideas. Each day, someone can open a new “door” on the calendar to reveal a fun surprise, such as “Have a Christmas movie night,” “Make hot chocolate,” or “Decorate cookies.” This interactive and personalized countdown will make every day leading up to Christmas feel special.
Staying at home during the Christmas season doesn’t mean you have to miss out on festive fun. With a little creativity, you can create lasting family memories while enjoying the comfort and warmth of your own home. Whether it’s through baking, crafting, or simply spending time together, these family-friendly stay-at-home events will make your Christmas season extra special. So grab your pajamas, cue up the holiday playlist, and let the festive celebrations begin!
