Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day

Changing the world. Santa and Jesus.

Ah, Christmas Day! After all the build-up—the decorating, the shopping, the cooking, and the waiting—it’s finally here. Whether you’re someone who loves to stick to traditions or likes to keep things spontaneous, there’s no shortage of ways to make this day special. The beauty of Christmas is that it’s a day to celebrate love, connection, and joy in whatever way feels right for you. Here’s a list of fun things to do on Christmas Day to make it as magical as possible.

1. Start with a Festive Morning

Open Gifts Together

This is the classic start to Christmas morning, and for good reason. Whether you rip into presents with giddy excitement or take turns to savor the moment, the joy of unwrapping gifts is unmatched. Make it special by brewing a pot of coffee, pouring hot cocoa for the kids, and playing Christmas music in the background.

Pro Tip: Snap candid photos of everyone’s reactions—it’s fun to look back on the surprise and happiness later.

Stay in Your PJs

There’s an unspoken magic about staying in cozy pajamas all day on Christmas. Break out those matching family sets or flannel classics and lean into the comfort. Bonus points if your PJs are festive and fluffy.

2. Have a Relaxed Breakfast

Whip Up a Holiday Feast

Christmas morning deserves a breakfast spread to match the day’s festive vibe. Think cinnamon rolls, fluffy pancakes, breakfast casseroles, or an omelet station if you’re feeling fancy. Add a mimosa or hot spiced cider for the adults, and voilà—it’s a party before noon!

Keep It Casual

If you’re more about lounging than cooking, opt for simple pleasures like bagels, fruit, or pastries. The point is to enjoy the morning without stress—this isn’t a day for rushing.

3. Play with New Toys or Gadgets

If you have kids in the house, this is a no-brainer. Watch their faces light up as they dive into their new toys, games, or art kits. But hey, who says grown-ups can’t do the same? Set up that new gadget, try out that board game, or start flipping through the pages of the book you’ve been wanting. Christmas is all about enjoying the things (and people) you love!

4. Take a Family Walk

After a cozy morning indoors, bundle up and head outside for a walk. It’s a great way to shake off the post-breakfast food coma and enjoy some fresh air. If you’re lucky enough to have a white Christmas, take in the beauty of snow-covered trees and twinkling lights.

Make it fun: Bring along a thermos of hot cocoa or coffee, and maybe snap a few family selfies to capture the day.

5. Watch Christmas Movies Together

Merry Christmas to you

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is plopping down on the couch and revisiting holiday classics. Everyone has their go-to movies, whether it’s Home Alone for laughs, It’s a Wonderful Life for the feels, or The Grinch for pure nostalgia.

Settle in with blankets, popcorn, and those leftover cookies from Christmas Eve. If you’re with family or friends, let everyone vote on the movie lineup—it’s a fun way to include everyone.

6. Make a Gingerbread House

Who says Christmas crafts are just for kids? Decorating a gingerbread house is one of those low-pressure, high-fun activities that everyone can enjoy. You can go for something Pinterest-worthy or just have fun slapping frosting and candy together—no judgment.

Turn it into a friendly competition if you have a bigger group. Who can make the most creative house? Or the one that actually stands up? Either way, it’s bound to be full of laughs.

7. Have a Big Christmas Dinner

The Main Event

For many families, Christmas dinner is the highlight of the day. Whether it’s a perfectly roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a hearty lasagna (my personal favorite), the meal is all about coming together and sharing something special.

Potluck Style

If you’re hosting and don’t want to shoulder the whole feast, make it a potluck! Everyone brings a dish, and you end up with a delightful mix of flavors and recipes. Plus, it’s less stressful for everyone involved.

8. Get Competitive with Games

Christmas Day is the perfect time to break out the board games, card games, or trivia quizzes. If you’re with family or friends, a little friendly competition can be a blast. Some classic options:

• Charades: Always good for laughs, especially when someone’s acting out “Silent Night” or “snowman.”
• Pictionary: Bonus points for holiday-themed prompts!
• Monopoly: Only if you’re prepared for it to take all evening—and to still be friends afterward.
• UNO or Cards Against Humanity: Easy to pick up and always fun.

9. Call or Video Chat with Loved Ones

Christmas is about connection, and if you can’t be with certain family or friends, take a moment to call or video chat. Whether it’s a quick “Merry Christmas” or a longer catch-up session, reaching out can make the day brighter for both of you.

10. Take a Nap or Relax

Christmas ornament with ribbon

Let’s be real—Christmas can be exhausting, even if it’s the good kind of tired. If you feel like you need a break, take one! Curl up with a blanket, read a book, or sneak in a nap. Sometimes the best gift you can give yourself is permission to slow down.

11. Get Outside and Play

If you live somewhere with snow, Christmas Day is ideal for outdoor fun. Build a snowman, have a snowball fight, or go sledding. If you’re not in a snowy spot, a family hike or backyard football game can still bring the same playful energy.

12. Have a DIY Holiday Photo Shoot

Capture the magic of the day with a little DIY photo shoot. Use your Christmas tree or outdoor decorations as the backdrop and let everyone get creative with poses. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just something to remember the day by.

For added fun, include props like Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or even some goofy holiday sweaters.

13. Create a Gratitude Jar

Here’s a sweet activity to reflect on the year and the day. Set up a “gratitude jar” where everyone can write down something they’re thankful for and drop it inside. It’s a meaningful way to end Christmas on a high note and start thinking about the year ahead with positivity.

14. Share Christmas Stories or Memories

After dinner or during dessert, gather everyone together and share favorite Christmas memories. Whether it’s a funny story from years past or a sweet moment from childhood, these conversations bring everyone closer.

15. End the Day with a Nightcap

For the adults, wind down with a holiday cocktail or glass of wine by the fire (or under a cozy blanket if you don’t have a fireplace). Spiked eggnog, mulled wine, or a peppermint martini are perfect choices for toasting to a wonderful day.

Make It Your Own

Christmas Book by Lee Johndrow

At the end of the day, Christmas is what you make it. Whether you’re spending it with a house full of people or keeping things quiet and simple, the most important thing is to focus on the joy of the moment. Find the activities that bring you and your loved ones happiness, and don’t stress if everything doesn’t go perfectly.