What to Do on Christmas Day: 2025 Edition

For many, the Christmas holidays are about traditions. Families open gifts, enjoy big meals, and share stories around the table. Kids wake up early, excited to see what Santa has left under the tree. Some head to church, while others cozy up at home. But what makes this day special is that there's no one right way to enjoy the day - everyone celebrates it differently.

This guide is packed with ideas for things to do on Christmas to help you make your celebration unforgettable in 2025. From classic activities to fresh takes, there's something for everyone to enjoy. If you're ever wondering why do we celebrate Christmas, it's a reminder of the joy, kindness, and traditions that bring us all together.

How to Plan a Perfect Christmas ✏🎊

A little planning can go a long way in helping you to truly enjoy the holiday spirit by staying on track. Here's a Christmas to do list from our skilled essay writer to help you tackle the preparation step by step:

The twinkling lights, the smell of fresh pine, and the sound of carols. Yes, Christmas Day is here - the most magical time of the year!

What to Do During Christmas: Ideas List 🎄

Here, we've got more fun ideas for you to create lasting memories and spread holiday cheer. Check out these Christmas festive activities to make your holiday season memorable.

Meanwhile, let our term paper service get your work done on time, stress-free, and ready for submission.

Christmas Activities with the Family 🎄

Christmas is perfect for family time. Whether you're sticking to old traditions or trying something new, these activities can help make your holiday extra special.

1. Decorate the Christmas tree.
2. Watch holiday movies as a group.
3. Bake Christmas cookies or gingerbread houses.
4. Take family photos in festive outfits.
5. Sing Christmas carols around the house.
6. Go ice skating or sledding.
7. Write holiday cards to loved ones.
8. Have a cozy family game night.
9. Visit a local Christmas market.
10. Drive around to see holiday lights.

Christmas Activities with Friends 🎄

Christmas activities are a great chance to share the joy of the season with friends and celebrate together.

Here are some fun things to do on Christmas with your friend group:

1. Host a Christmas movie marathon.
2. Have a gift exchange or Secret Santa.
3. Go out for holiday drinks or hot cocoa.
4. Plan a festive dinner party.
5. Try a holiday-themed escape room.
6. Volunteer at a local charity or shelter.
7. Go caroling in your neighborhood.
8. Take silly photos in ugly Christmas sweaters.
9. Have a holiday baking competition.
10. Do a Christmas craft night.

Christmas Activities for Kids 🎄

Kids bring so much excitement to Christmas. They love the decorations, the stories, and the surprises. Keeping them busy with fun things to do during Christmas break adds to the holiday magic!

1. Write letters to Santa.
2. Create Christmas-themed crafts.
3. Watch animated holiday movies.
4. Decorate sugar cookies or cupcakes.
5. Read Christmas stories before bed.
6. Make ornaments for the tree.
7. Have a holiday scavenger hunt.
8. Build a snowman or play in the snow.
9. Visit Santa at the mall or a holiday event.
10. Set up a kids-only holiday karaoke session.

Christmas Activities for Adults 🎄

Adults deserve some holiday fun, too! Let's put aside the hustle and bustle of the holiday season and unwind.

Here are things to do on Christmas day tailored for grown-ups:

1. Host a holiday cocktail party.
2. Try your hand at a Christmas-themed DIY project.
3. Watch classic Christmas movies with wine.
4. Go to a festive live music event or concert.
5. Plan a spa day to unwind from holiday stress.
6. Explore a Christmas light show or festival.
7. Organize a holiday book exchange.
8. Take a winter hike and enjoy the scenery.
9. Cook a special holiday dinner together.
10. Attend a Christmas-themed workshop or class.

If you're already in the Christmas spirit, let our coursework writing service help you get your homework done on time!

Best Christmas Movies 📽

Let's talk about Christmas movies!

They're a key part of the holiday season, bringing families together, spreading joy, and reminding us of what this day is all about. Curling up to watch these family Christmas movies is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the season's magic.

‍

1. Home Alone – A classic about family and holiday hijinks.
2. Elf – A funny tale of a human raised by elves.
3. The Polar Express – A magical journey to the North Pole.
4. A Christmas Carol – The timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge.
5. How the Grinch Stole Christmas – A tale of heart and redemption.
6. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation – A hilarious holiday mishap.
7. Love Actually – A feel-good mix of love stories during Christmas.
8. The Santa Clause – A dad turns into Santa in this family favorite.
9. Miracle on 34th Street – A story of belief and holiday magic.
10. It's a Wonderful Life – A touching reminder of life's value.

See related: Thanksgiving films.

Best Christmas Books 📚

We haven't forgotten about Christmas books!

They have a special way of warming your heart and filling your home with holiday cheer. Whether you're reading to kids or enjoying a peaceful moment on your own, these books are perfect for the season. They capture the magic, generosity, and hope of Christmas.

And the best part? These reads aren't just for adults - they're great Christmas books for kids, too!

1. A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens – A story of transformation and kindness.
2. The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg – A magical adventure to the North Pole.
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss – A fun, rhyming holiday tale.
4. The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore – A timeless Christmas poem.
5. The Snowman by Raymond Briggs – A wordless story told through pictures.
6. Little Women by Louisa May Alcott – Heartwarming Christmas moments within a classic.
7. Letters from Father Christmas by J.R.R. Tolkien – Whimsical letters from "Santa."
8. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson – A funny and touching story.
9. A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig – A magical Santa origin story.
10. Christmas Days: 12 Stories and 12 Feasts by Jeanette Winterson – A mix of stories and recipes.

See related: Narrative essay topics.

Best Christmas Songs 🎷

Christmas songs bring joy, nostalgia, and warmth to every moment. Everyone has a favorite holiday tune, and these timeless classics will get you into the festive spirit. Here are the best Christmas songs of all time.

1. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" – Mariah Carey.
2. "Last Christmas" – Wham!
3. "Jingle Bell Rock" – Bobby Helms.
4. "White Christmas" – Bing Crosby.
5. "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" – Brenda Lee.
6. "Silent Night" – Various artists.
7. “Feliz Navidad” – José Feliciano.
8. "Do They Know It's Christmas?" – Band Aid.
9. "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" – Bruce Springsteen.
10. "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" – Dean Martin.

Christmas Eve Traditions ✨🪄

What about some fun Christmas Eve traditions for families?

These traditions help build the excitement and magic leading up to Christmas Day. While every family has its own special way of celebrating, there are a few classic activities that make the night memorable for everyone.

Don't miss out on our handpicked list of the best co-op games!

Best Places to Travel for Christmas 🗺

As Christmas approaches, many of us start dreaming of the perfect getaway to make the season even more magical. Some are looking for a cozy winter escape, while others prefer a festive destination filled with holiday cheer.

The right location can make all the difference, so here are the perfect options for spending Christmas around the world:

1. New York City – Famous for its Rockefeller Center tree and ice skating.
2. Lapland, Finland – Home of Santa Claus and snowy adventures.
3. Nuremberg, Germany – Known for its enchanting Christmas markets.
4. Quebec City, Canada – A picturesque snowy escape.
5. London, England – Festive lights and classic charm.
6. Aspen, Colorado – Perfect for skiing and mountain fun.
7. Tokyo, Japan – Unique holiday displays and light shows.
8. Vienna, Austria – Known for its holiday concerts and markets.
9. Prague, Czech Republic – Stunning architecture and festive spirit.
10. Sydney, Australia – A warm Christmas by the beach.

Budget Friendly Ideas for Christmas 💰

Celebrating the holiday doesn't have to drain your wallet. With a little creativity and planning, you can have a magical Christmas that's affordable and meaningful.

Here are some things to do on Christmas to enjoy the season without overspending:

• Share the cost of holiday meals by asking friends and family to bring a dish.
• Look for gifts or holiday outfits at thrift stores or online marketplaces.
• Make homemade gifts. From baked goods to handmade candles, personal gifts are thoughtful and budget-friendly.
• Enjoy activities like caroling, viewing holiday lights, or visiting local events.
• Save wrapping paper, ribbons, and gift bags from previous years.
• Give the gift of time, like planning a movie night or making a coupon book for fun activities.
• Simplify traditions. Skip the extras that don't matter as much and focus on what brings joy.

Eco Friendly Tips for Christmas 🌱

The Christmas holidays can bring a lot of waste. With a few changes, however, you can still enjoy them while being kinder to the planet.

And you don't have to sacrifice fun. Just rethink how you celebrate and make mindful decisions.

• Wrap gifts in fabric, newspaper, or reusable gift bags instead of single-use paper.
• Give experience-based gifts. Tickets, memberships, or classes are thoughtful and reduce material waste.
• Use items like pinecones, greenery, or dried oranges for decorations instead of plastic ones.
• Buy gifts with minimal or recyclable packaging to reduce trash.
• Shopping locally cuts down on transportation emissions and supports your community.
• Skip disposable plates and cups at parties and use washable tableware instead.
• Rent or buy a potted tree that can be replanted after the holidays.
• If gifting or receiving gadgets, recycle the old ones responsibly.
• Plan meals carefully to avoid food waste, and compost any leftovers.

Let's Wrap Up

That's Christmas for you - messy, magical, and wonderfully chaotic. Out of all the things to do on Christmas day, choose what makes you happiest.

Don't stress over perfection. Focus on the moments that matter. If things don't go as planned, that's just another story for next year.

Whatever you do, make it your own. Celebrate big or keep it simple - either way, here's to a Christmas full of joy, connection, and maybe a little extra dessert!