I want to share some inspiring ideas for making this a positively memorable Christmas. Unless, you’ve been living under a rock, you’d agree that 2020 has been a rough year all around. Everyone thought that by now, we would see some sort of normalcy. However, celebrations this year will be limited to our household as we do our part to stop the spread of Covid-19.
This time of year is when we take the time to gather and reconnect with our loved ones. It’s off-putting being told not to take part in one of the very ways this season is so special. Nevertheless, now is a time for us to come together and act responsibly. We must think of what’s better for our community as a whole. This is not every Christmas; it’s an opportunity for it to be just this Christmas.
Let’s bring joy to this season by enjoying our time at home. Whether you live on your own or with a lot of family members, there are many ways to make a memorable Christmas.
Don’t forget to use these 3 secrets to upgrade your experience:
- Savour moments by absorbing details, sensations and positive emotions
- Host virtual events to include loved ones outside of your home
- Take pictures and record videos when possible to revisit the moment
How to make this a memorable Christmas:
1. Take in a fresh snowfall
Enjoy some time outside after it snows (and I don’t mean to go out and shovel it off your driveway). Build a snowman, make a snow angel or simply take a walk to take in the sights of a white winter.
2. Bake holiday treats
Sugar snaps, gingerbread, fruitcakes, the possibilities are endless. Bake up a storm of different treats or keep it simple. Finding easy recipes that the kids can help out with makes it a great family activity.
3. Put up Christmas decorations
String up some lights outside or some garland along the staircase and fireplace. Put up any seasonal figurines and decorate as you wish – bonus point for playing Christmas music while you work.
4. Have a Christmas movie night
There is something so special about cozying up to a feel good festive flick in your pj’s with some hot cocoa. Go the extra mile by making it a movie marathon.
5. Build a gingerbread house
Whether you make it from scratch or decorate one out of a box is totally up to you. Add icing and candy details – get creative. It’s something fun for all ages.
6. Decorate a Christmas tree
There are fake trees of all sorts and sizes. Go as big or as subtle as you wish. The point to a memorable Christmas is to get everyone in the house involved and having fun.
7. Make your own tree ornaments
Pull ideas from the Internet or work off your own creative juices. Grab some materials from the dollar store or local craft store. There are all sorts of ornament ideas for all different ages.
8. Enjoy a family game night
Spend the night enjoying an assortment of games. Pick ones that are age appropriate so that everyone in the house can join in. You can even virtually invite members outside of the household and have them join in as well.
9. Get active outdoors
You can enjoy a number of outdoor activities in the winter. Tobogganing is so simple yet enjoyable by all. You just need a snowy hill and something to slide down on (sleds, garbage bags, whatever you got!)
10. Donate food to a local food drive
Everyday, there are people who struggle to put food on the table. Purchase non-perishable items to donate such as grains, canned goods and condiments. You can even inquire with local food banks what items there may be a shortage of before making a purchase.
11. Clean out and give any warm clothing to those in need
The weather is cold and not everyone has a warm place to go home to. Offer coats and outdoor clothing such as winter boots, hats, gloves and scarves. Make this a memorable Christmas activity for the kids by having them contribute as well.
12. Contribute to your favourite charity
This is the season of giving after all. What better way to put this into action than by giving help to those who need it? Find 1 (or as many as you’d like) that supports a good cause and give what you can.
13. Send Christmas cards to family and friends
Handwrite a personalized message to loved ones and have all household members pitch in with writing, sealing and stamping the envelopes. You can alternatively work together to capture a family photo and upload it to an online photo centre to digitally print cards.
14. Plan a paint night
An empty canvas, some paints, music and your favourite beverage can inspire you to create your best artwork. Use a Christmas themed image and think virtual to invite family and friends to join in.
15. Create handmade gifts to give out
A personal touch to gift giving is a great way to pass the time while saving money on expensive gifts. Try your hand at crafting accessories or décor pieces. Wrapped baked goods make an excellent handmade gift to hand out around the holidays.
16. Go skating at an outdoor rink (if your area permits)
Depending on your local area, you can rent skates (or bring your own) to an outdoor rink. Stay active and enjoy some time on the ice with your social circle.
17. Put together a Christmas themed scavenger hunt
Have the family members look around the house for clues and fun surprises.It can be tailored in whichever manner you please as long as everyone is having fun.
18. Keep a countdown calendar
Grow the anticipation for Christmas by counting down the days as they pass. You can purchase one for the kids to update each morning. Make even more memories with a DIY countdown calendar.
19. Start a holiday themed puzzle
Purchase a Christmas themed puzzle anywhere between (500-1000) pieces and work on it throughout the holiday. Set up a place where it will not be disturbed so you can go back and continue it each day.
20. Invest in relationships
Call relatives – definitely video call whenever possible. Engage in meaningful conversation. Get to know your people on a deeper level. There’s a need for human connection now more than ever.
21. Scope out the holiday lights
Take a tour around local neighbourhoods to see the different decorations. Some households create such extravagant outdoor displays to enjoy.
22. Read Christmas stories
In the days leading up to Christmas, create a routine of reading a Christmas story while the household settles in each night. Everyone can take turns picking a story, there are so many to choose from.