12 Days of Christmas: A Countdown of Family Fun 

Preparing for the holidays can be so stressful sometimes that we forget to slow down and remember that Christmas is supposed to be a season of fun. Family time is paramount as we deck the halls in preparation for this holiest of holidays.

Here is a countdown of fun things to do with the family in the 12 days leading up to Christmas, but here’s a fun twist, you’ll have to check back daily for fresh fun ideas!

1. On the first day of Christmas…Watch a Christmas Movie!

One of the best ways to get in the mood for Christmas is to watch a movie centered around the season. These films will have you looking forward to the days ahead:

• A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa. Deliver a letter to the North Pole with the Muppets.
• How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The 2000 adaptation of the Dr. Seuss classic stars Jim Carrey.
• The Polar Express. Take a magical train ride to the North Pole where Santa Claus is visible.

2. On the second day of Christmas…make hot chocolate!

A delicious cup of hot chocolate warms both the body and the soul. To make it you will need:

• Milk
• Chocolate syrup
• Tiny Marshmallows
• Candy Canes

Warm the milk and stir in the chocolate syrup. Top with marshmallows and add a candy cane for garnish.

3. On the third day of Christmas…make gingerbread cookies!

Using a favorite recipe, get the whole family involved in making this holiday treat.

4. On the fourth day of Christmas…Decorate your Christmas tree!

Decorating the tree is an event in itself. Be sure each family member adds an ornament of significance, like ones made at school!

5. On the Fifth Day of Christmas…Make Holiday Crafts!!

Fun holiday crafts for families include tiny Christmas trees made from pine cones, hand-crafted Christmas cards, homemade Christmas ornaments, and popcorn tinsel for the tree!

6. On the Sixth Day of Christmas…Go for a Drive to See Christmas Lights and Decorations!

Do you have a favorite neighborhood to go to?? Enjoy your community’s spirited efforts by driving around town after dark to admire their Christmas decorations! Kids love this one! Also, don’t forget to put on those Christmas tunes!

7. On the Seventh Day of Christmas…Deliver some Food to your Local Food Bank!

Christmas is the time to remember those less fortunate. Delivering food donations to a food bank is a good way to instill this value in children and you can also ask to volunteer to spend some time with your family while doing something good for those who need it most.

8. On the Eighth Day of Christmas… Go Caroling!

Ask your little ones what their favorite Christmas music is and and rehearse once or twice. Then delight your loved ones with Christmas carols! This classic tradition should not be lost! Be sure to include:

• Here Comes Santa Claus
• Jingle Bells
• Oh, Holy Night

9. On the Ninth Day of Christmas…Visit the Elderly!

Elderly folks enjoy seeing youngsters delight in Christmas. Visit a nursing home or senior neighbors to help make the season bright for them!

10. On the Tenth Day of Christmas…Make Holiday Phone Calls!

Call family and friends who live elsewhere to wish them a Merry Christmas. Even the youngest family member can have a turn talking and relaying Merry Christmas sentiments.

11. On the Eleventh Day of Christmas…Attend Church Service

Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. Celebrate by participating in a church service or watching a Christmas play.

12. On the Twelfth Day of Christmas…Open Christmas Gifts!

The grand finale comes with the opening of Christmas presents. Enjoy each other’s company while building memories.

Merry Christmas!