Cozy Christmas Traditions to Start with Your Family

Gentle Movement Activities
Creative Keepsake Crafts
- Baking & Decorating Tray
- Homemade Ornaments
Quick Holiday Moments
- Christmas Games
- Christmas Trivia Competition
Cozy Wind-Down Traditions
- Christmas Movie Marathon
- Grateful Gift Unwrapping
Flexible Family Fun
- Christmas Eve Boxes
- Family Photo Session
FAQs

<p dir="ltr"><span>Nothing keeps the magic of Christmas alive more than family traditions. While we love family bonding year-round, something about the holidays makes family time even more special! After all, it’s so easy to create lasting memories and find special Christmas traditions you enjoy doing year after year. And we can’t think of a better way to spend this wonderful season.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If you’re looking for some new Christmas traditions to start with your family this year, we’re here to help you unwrap some great ideas for every stage of the season.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Naturally, all of these activities are even better in comfy and <a href="https://stelleworld.com/blogs/lifestyle-and-holiday-news/holiday-travel-outfits-for-women-and-girls" title="Holiday Travel Outfits for Women and Girls">stylish clothes</a>, so be sure to don your favorite <a href="https://stelleworld.com/collections/girls-clothing" title="girls athleisure wear">athleisure wear</a> from Stelle and make that part of your Christmas, too!</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Gentle Movement Activities</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Holiday Light Displays</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>One of the most magical parts of any holiday season is exploring the Christmas lights around your city. From tree-lighting ceremonies to botanical gardens or festive neighborhoods, most cities have at least one annual Christmas light display worth checking out. Load up the car with hot cocoa, play your favorite songs from classic Christmas movies, and make it a traditional family outing!</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Takeaway:</strong><span><strong> </strong>Turn your local light display adventure into a family tradition. Be sure to take lots of photos, and keep them alongside your favorite Christmas decorations from that year.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_51_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761947106" alt="Holiday Light Displays" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Holiday Scavenger Hunt</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If you’re looking for something more active, why not plan a <a href="https://stelleworld.com/blogs/mom-tips/scavenger-hunt-ideas" title="scavenger hunt ideas">scavenger hunt</a>? Split into teams, and create a list of all the things you need to find, like Christmas decorations, Santa hats, candy canes, and so on. You can even add clues related to your favorite Christmas vacation spots if you’re the type of family that’s always on the go. Whoever wins gets to feast on super delicious Christmas cookies!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Takeaway: </strong><span>A scavenger hunt keeps things active and interesting. Plus, it’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while exploring Christmas decorations!</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_52_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761947414" alt="Holiday Scavenger Hunt" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Outdoor Adventure</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If the weather outside isn’t too frightful, step out for a bit of fresh air! Go sledding, build a snowman, or enjoy a peaceful walk around your neighborhood. Whether your Christmas vacation brings snow or sunshine, the great outdoors offers countless ways to connect with the family.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Takeaway:</strong> </span><span>Fresh air and gentle movement keep things light, especially after eating a whole bunch of Christmas cookies!</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_53_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761947697" alt="Christmas Outdoor Adventure" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Creative Keepsake Crafts</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Baking & Decorating Tray</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Nothing beats the smell of freshly <a href="https://stelleworld.com/blogs/lifestyle-and-holiday-news/holiday-treats-and-healthy-living" title="holiday treats and healthy living">baked Christmas cookies</a> to make your home feel festive! Round up the whole family for a baking day and whip up some classic sugar cookies, gingerbread, or fudge. If you’re up for a little friendly competition, create a decorating contest using Christmas ornaments.</span><b></b></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Takeaway:</strong> </span><span>Baking together is both creative and delicious. The sweet results double as edible gifts or beautiful additions to your Christmas decorations.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_54_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761948193" alt="Baking & Decorating Tray" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Homemade Ornaments</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Tired of the same old Christmas ornaments? Why not make some yourselves? Use felt, clay, or clear plastic globes, and fill them with tokens that represent the holiday season in your family. This could be vacation mementos, <a href="https://stelleworld.com/products/bag-charms" title="key charms">tiny charms</a>, and even leftover cookie crumbs!</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Takeaway:</strong> </span><span>Christmas ornaments become lasting keepsakes that tell your family’s story. Add the year you’ve made them under each one, and watch as your Christmas tree becomes a timeline of cherished moments.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_56_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761948670" alt="Homemade Ornaments" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Quick Holiday Moments</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Christmas Games</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>If you’re looking to amp up the fun, Christmas games like Holiday Bingo, Pictionary, or “Guess the Christmas Carol” will surely do the trick! They’re super fun and easy to set up, and can be played by the entire family, no matter the age.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Takeaway: </strong><span>Christmas games are perfect for laid-back fun during busy weeks, helping families slow down and enjoy the holiday season together.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_57_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761948986" alt="Christmas Games Activity" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Christmas Trivia Competition</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Speaking of Christmas games, a little <a href="https://stelleworld.com/blogs/mom-tips/trivia-questions-for-kids" title="trivia questions for kids">trivia</a> is always a good idea. Test everyone’s knowledge of famous Christmas movies, traditions, and songs. You can even include some tricky questions, like “Where is the world’s most popular Christmas lights display?”. Don’t forget to include prizes for the winners!</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Takeaway: </strong><span>Christmas trivia sparks friendly competition and laughter while teaching fun facts about the holiday season.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_58_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761949467" alt="Christmas Trivia Competition" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Cozy Wind-Down Traditions</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Christmas Movie Marathon</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Snuggle up for a Christmas <a href="https://stelleworld.com/blogs/mom-tips/family-movies-recommendations" title="family movies recommendations">movie marathon</a> with popcorn, fuzzy blankets, and matching loungewear (preferably from <a href="https://stelleworld.com/" title="stelle's homepage">Stelle</a>!). Watch family favorites like Home Alone, Elf, or The Polar Express, or create a theme night with your own top picks from your Christmas vacation memories.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Takeaway:</strong><span> Watching Christmas movies together helps everyone unwind, relax, and reconnect, making it one of the coziest Christmas traditions you can start.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_59_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761949988" alt="Christmas Movie Marathon" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Grateful Gift Unwrapping</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Do you prefer a peaceful Christmas morning over a chaotic one? Consider incorporating a “thankful pause” tradition, where family members take turns opening gifts and pause to appreciate them before tearing into the next. This not only calms things down but helps children practice gratitude.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Takeaway:</strong> </span><span>Gratitude makes Christmas mornings even more magical and meaningful. This tradition encourages mindfulness and appreciation during a season that’s heavily gift-focused.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_60_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761950242" alt="Grateful Gift Unwrapping" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>Flexible Family Fun</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Christmas Eve Boxes</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Christmas Eve boxes are a great way to tide excited family members over until Christmas morning! These early gifts are intended to help the whole family bond during Christmas Eve, so pick something everyone will enjoy. Fill them with matching PJs, cookies, hot cocoa, and even some tiny ornaments!</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Takeaway:</strong> </span><span>Christmas Eve boxes get kids excited while setting a cozy setting for family bonding time right before Christmas morning.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_61_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761950507" alt="Christmas Eve Boxes" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>Family Photo Session</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Capture the holiday magic with a <a href="https://stelleworld.com/blogs/mom-tips/what-to-wear-for-family-photos" title="what to wear for family photos">family photo session</a>. Wear coordinated outfits in festive colors or keep things casual with matching loungewear. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even hire a professional photographer for your shoot!</span><span><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><strong>Takeaway:</strong> </span><span>With photos, you can always come back to your Christmas memories of each year. This way, you can see how your Christmas traditions have evolved.</span></p>
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2442/9443/files/banner_62_1024x1024.jpg?v=1761951069" alt="Family Photo Session" style="margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;"></div>
<h2 dir="ltr"><span>FAQs</span></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>1. What is the oldest Christmas tradition?</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The oldest Christmas tradition is telling the story of Jesus’ birth, dating back to the 4th century. The tradition of nativity scenes and plays came later, with the first reenactment being in 1223, introduced by St. Francis of Assisi.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span>2. What are the five rules of Christmas?</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>While not official rules, many people follow five guiding principles that capture the spirit of Christmas: </span><span>give with meaning, spend time with loved ones, keep traditions alive, be grateful, and spread joy and kindness</span><span>.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>3. What are fun Christmas traditions for families with kids?</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Families with kids can enjoy hands-on traditions like baking Christmas cookies, crafting Christmas ornaments, and watching Christmas movies together. Outdoor adventures, scavenger hunts, and exploring Christmas lights displays are also perfect ways to keep little ones entertained and joyful.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>4. What Christmas traditions can families enjoy for free?</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Free family traditions include exploring neighborhood Christmas decorations, enjoying a movie marathon at home, hosting trivia or game nights, or taking a cozy evening walk to admire Christmas lights. You can even create DIY Christmas ornaments using items you already have around the house.</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr" role="presentation"><span>5. What should families wear for Christmas activities?</span></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Comfort and style go hand in hand during the holidays. Choose soft athleisurewear that lets you move freely while still looking festive. For family photos or your next Christmas vacation, coordinate colors that complement your Christmas decorations.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b><br></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>There are limitless ways to celebrate the holiday season with your family, but Christmas traditions are undoubtedly the most meaningful. If one or several of these traditions caught your attention, run them by your family and see which ones they want to incorporate into your yearly celebrations!</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>And don’t forget that creating memories is even more enjoyable when the family is comfy and stylish, so stock up on all the cozy outfits you need now so they’re ready for the season.</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><b></b></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Wishing you a big Merry Christmas from everyone at <a href="https://stelleworld.com/" title="stelle's homepage">Stelle</a>!</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>

Nothing keeps the magic of Christmas alive more than family traditions. While we love family bonding year-round, something about the holidays makes family time even more special! After all, it’s so easy to create lasting memories and find special Christmas traditions you enjoy doing year after year. And we can’t think of a better way to spend this wonderful season.

If you’re looking for some new Christmas traditions to start with your family this year, we’re here to help you unwrap some great ideas for every stage of the season.

Naturally, all of these activities are even better in comfy and stylish clothes, so be sure to don your favorite athleisure wear from Stelle and make that part of your Christmas, too!

Gentle Movement Activities

Holiday Light Displays

One of the most magical parts of any holiday season is exploring the Christmas lights around your city. From tree-lighting ceremonies to botanical gardens or festive neighborhoods, most cities have at least one annual Christmas light display worth checking out. Load up the car with hot cocoa, play your favorite songs from classic Christmas movies, and make it a traditional family outing!

Takeaway: Turn your local light display adventure into a family tradition. Be sure to take lots of photos, and keep them alongside your favorite Christmas decorations from that year.

Holiday Scavenger Hunt

If you’re looking for something more active, why not plan a scavenger hunt? Split into teams, and create a list of all the things you need to find, like Christmas decorations, Santa hats, candy canes, and so on. You can even add clues related to your favorite Christmas vacation spots if you’re the type of family that’s always on the go. Whoever wins gets to feast on super delicious Christmas cookies!

Takeaway: A scavenger hunt keeps things active and interesting. Plus, it’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while exploring Christmas decorations!

Outdoor Adventure

If the weather outside isn’t too frightful, step out for a bit of fresh air! Go sledding, build a snowman, or enjoy a peaceful walk around your neighborhood. Whether your Christmas vacation brings snow or sunshine, the great outdoors offers countless ways to connect with the family.

Takeaway: Fresh air and gentle movement keep things light, especially after eating a whole bunch of Christmas cookies!

Creative Keepsake Crafts

Baking & Decorating Tray

Nothing beats the smell of freshly baked Christmas cookies to make your home feel festive! Round up the whole family for a baking day and whip up some classic sugar cookies, gingerbread, or fudge. If you’re up for a little friendly competition, create a decorating contest using Christmas ornaments.

Takeaway: Baking together is both creative and delicious. The sweet results double as edible gifts or beautiful additions to your Christmas decorations.

Homemade Ornaments

Tired of the same old Christmas ornaments? Why not make some yourselves? Use felt, clay, or clear plastic globes, and fill them with tokens that represent the holiday season in your family. This could be vacation mementos, tiny charms, and even leftover cookie crumbs!

Takeaway: Christmas ornaments become lasting keepsakes that tell your family’s story. Add the year you’ve made them under each one, and watch as your Christmas tree becomes a timeline of cherished moments.

Quick Holiday Moments

Christmas Games

If you’re looking to amp up the fun, Christmas games like Holiday Bingo, Pictionary, or “Guess the Christmas Carol” will surely do the trick! They’re super fun and easy to set up, and can be played by the entire family, no matter the age.

Takeaway: Christmas games are perfect for laid-back fun during busy weeks, helping families slow down and enjoy the holiday season together.

Christmas Trivia Competition

Speaking of Christmas games, a little trivia is always a good idea. Test everyone’s knowledge of famous Christmas movies, traditions, and songs. You can even include some tricky questions, like “Where is the world’s most popular Christmas lights display?”. Don’t forget to include prizes for the winners!

Takeaway: Christmas trivia sparks friendly competition and laughter while teaching fun facts about the holiday season.

Cozy Wind-Down Traditions

Christmas Movie Marathon

Snuggle up for a Christmas movie marathon with popcorn, fuzzy blankets, and matching loungewear (preferably from Stelle!). Watch family favorites like Home Alone, Elf, or The Polar Express, or create a theme night with your own top picks from your Christmas vacation memories.

Takeaway: Watching Christmas movies together helps everyone unwind, relax, and reconnect, making it one of the coziest Christmas traditions you can start.

Grateful Gift Unwrapping

Do you prefer a peaceful Christmas morning over a chaotic one? Consider incorporating a “thankful pause” tradition, where family members take turns opening gifts and pause to appreciate them before tearing into the next. This not only calms things down but helps children practice gratitude.

Takeaway: Gratitude makes Christmas mornings even more magical and meaningful. This tradition encourages mindfulness and appreciation during a season that’s heavily gift-focused.

Flexible Family Fun

Christmas Eve Boxes

Christmas Eve boxes are a great way to tide excited family members over until Christmas morning! These early gifts are intended to help the whole family bond during Christmas Eve, so pick something everyone will enjoy. Fill them with matching PJs, cookies, hot cocoa, and even some tiny ornaments!

Takeaway: Christmas Eve boxes get kids excited while setting a cozy setting for family bonding time right before Christmas morning.

Family Photo Session

Capture the holiday magic with a family photo session. Wear coordinated outfits in festive colors or keep things casual with matching loungewear. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even hire a professional photographer for your shoot!

Takeaway: With photos, you can always come back to your Christmas memories of each year. This way, you can see how your Christmas traditions have evolved.

FAQs

1. What is the oldest Christmas tradition?

The oldest Christmas tradition is telling the story of Jesus’ birth, dating back to the 4th century. The tradition of nativity scenes and plays came later, with the first reenactment being in 1223, introduced by St. Francis of Assisi.

2. What are the five rules of Christmas?

While not official rules, many people follow five guiding principles that capture the spirit of Christmas: give with meaning, spend time with loved ones, keep traditions alive, be grateful, and spread joy and kindness.

3. What are fun Christmas traditions for families with kids?

Families with kids can enjoy hands-on traditions like baking Christmas cookies, crafting Christmas ornaments, and watching Christmas movies together. Outdoor adventures, scavenger hunts, and exploring Christmas lights displays are also perfect ways to keep little ones entertained and joyful.

4. What Christmas traditions can families enjoy for free?

Free family traditions include exploring neighborhood Christmas decorations, enjoying a movie marathon at home, hosting trivia or game nights, or taking a cozy evening walk to admire Christmas lights. You can even create DIY Christmas ornaments using items you already have around the house.

5. What should families wear for Christmas activities?

Comfort and style go hand in hand during the holidays. Choose soft athleisurewear that lets you move freely while still looking festive. For family photos or your next Christmas vacation, coordinate colors that complement your Christmas decorations.

There are limitless ways to celebrate the holiday season with your family, but Christmas traditions are undoubtedly the most meaningful. If one or several of these traditions caught your attention, run them by your family and see which ones they want to incorporate into your yearly celebrations!

And don’t forget that creating memories is even more enjoyable when the family is comfy and stylish, so stock up on all the cozy outfits you need now so they’re ready for the season.

Wishing you a big Merry Christmas from everyone at Stelle!