The 25 days of Christmas activities is a festive countdown from December 1st to December 25th, where families enjoy one fun holiday activity each day leading up to Christmas.
It’s a creative way to make the season more magical, keep traditions alive, and create joyful memories together.
From decorating the tree to baking cookies and watching classic holiday movies, these daily activities help you celebrate the entire month of December.
What is the 25 Days of Christmas?
The 25 Days of Christmas is a fun holiday tradition where you plan one festive activity per day starting on December 1 and ending on Christmas Day.
It can be family-friendly, romantic for couples, or even a solo self-care version.
25 Days of Christmas Activity Ideas
Here’s a complete, family-friendly activity list for your Christmas countdown.
1. Decorate the Christmas tree
2. Hang a festive wreath on your door
3. Write letters to Santa
4. Bake holiday cookies
5. Watch a classic Christmas movie
6. Make paper snowflakes
7. Host a hot chocolate night
8. Sing Christmas carols
9. Do a random act of kindness
10. Create handmade ornaments
11. Read a Christmas storybook
12. Set up a Christmas village display
13. Drive around to see Christmas lights
14. Make gingerbread houses
15. Wear matching Christmas pajamas
16. Attend a local holiday event
17. Make a Christmas craft
18. Have a holiday photo shoot
19. Wrap presents creatively
20. Donate toys or clothes to charity
21. Play holiday-themed board games
22. Visit Santa at a mall or event
23. Make Christmas cards
24. Read the Nativity story
25. Open presents and enjoy Christmas Day
How to Plan Your 25 Days of Christmas Activities
- Choose your activity list – Use the one above or customize your own.
- Write them on a printable calendar – Keeps you organized.
- Prepare supplies in advance – So you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
- Mix big and small activities – Not every day needs a major event.
- Get everyone involved – Let each family member pick an activity.
Table: 25 Days of Christmas At-a-Glance
| Day | Activity Idea | Time Needed | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Decorate the Christmas tree | 1–2 hrs | $$ |
| 2 | Hang a festive wreath | 15–30 min | $ |
| 3 | Write letters to Santa | 30 min | Free |
| 4 | Bake holiday cookies | 1–2 hrs | $$ |
| 5 | Watch a classic Christmas movie | 2 hrs | Free/$$ |
| 6 | Make paper snowflakes | 30–45 min | Free |
| 7 | Host a hot chocolate night | 30–60 min | $ |
| 8 | Sing Christmas carols | 30–60 min | Free |
| 9 | Do a random act of kindness | Flexible | Free |
| 10 | Create handmade ornaments | 1–2 hrs | $–$$ |
| 11 | Read a Christmas storybook | 15–30 min | Free |
| 12 | Set up a Christmas village display | 1–2 hrs | $$ |
| 13 | Drive around to see Christmas lights | 1–2 hrs | $ (gas) |
| 14 | Make gingerbread houses | 1–2 hrs | $$ |
| 15 | Wear matching Christmas pajamas | All evening | $$ |
| 16 | Attend a local holiday event | 1–3 hrs | Free/$$ |
| 17 | Make a Christmas craft | 30–90 min | $ |
| 18 | Have a holiday photo shoot | 1–2 hrs | Free/$ |
| 19 | Wrap presents creatively | 1–2 hrs | $–$$ |
| 20 | Donate toys or clothes to charity | 30–60 min | Free |
| 21 | Play holiday-themed board games | 1–3 hrs | Free/$ |
| 22 | Visit Santa at a mall or event | 30–60 min | $$ |
| 23 | Make Christmas cards | 30–60 min | $ |
| 24 | Read the Nativity story | 15–30 min | Free |
| 25 | Open presents and enjoy Christmas Day | All day | Free |
Also see: Halloween Party Activities for Adults: 21 Fun & Spooky Ideas
FAQs
1. How many days is the 25 Days of Christmas countdown?
It’s a 25-day countdown starting December 1 and ending December 25.
2. What’s the purpose of the 25 Days of Christmas activities?
To celebrate the holiday season daily and make special memories.
3. Can adults do the 25 Days of Christmas without kids?
Absolutely! You can adapt it for couples, friends, or solo self-care.
4. What if I miss a day?
No problem—just double up the next day or skip it.
5. Do I need to spend money on all activities?
No. Many activities are free, like making paper snowflakes or watching movies.
6. Can I start late in the month?
Yes, you can start any day and do a shorter countdown.
7. Where can I get a printable calendar for planning?
Download a free printable December calendar here.