The Best Fun Things to Do in December

December arrives with a magical blend of anticipation, celebration, and the perfect excuse to slow down and savor the season. I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of fun things to do in December to help you make the most of these precious weeks.

With this list, you’ll find inspiration for filling your December calendar with joy, connection, and everything that makes this time of year truly special.

Whether you’re looking for activities the whole family can enjoy together, creative projects to spark your imagination, or simple ways to add a little extra sparkle to your days, I have suggestions to help you enjoy the holiday season.

Whether you’re craving cozy nights by the fire, meaningful time with loved ones, or a little well-deserved indulgence, this month offers endless possibilities to create memories and embrace the spirit of the holidays.

From charitable acts that warm the heart to self-care moments that recharge your soul, December has so many opportunities to make this month.

If the hustle and bustle saps your Christmas spirit (that happens to the best of us!), and you need a personal break, I’ve got some great ideas for rejuvenating your holiday energy.

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Cozy and Creative Activities 

The holidays are always more fun when spent with others, whether family or friends or with others in your community. Here are some ideas for sharing the holidays with others.

• Host a hot chocolate bar night with homemade toppings. Check out this hot chocolate bar. 

• Have a family puzzle marathon by the fireplace. 
• Bake and decorate sugar cookies for neighbors. 
• Create handmade ornaments or gift tags.

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• Arrange with friends to start a new holiday book (or reread a beloved classic) with friends. Arrange to meet or Zoom to discuss it. 

• Reach out to faraway friends by sending old-fashioned holiday cards. 
• Gather friends to make DIY gifts. 
• Have a movie marathon with funny holiday films, such as National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Elf, or Home Alone.

Charitable and Community-Focused 

Giving our time and talents to others during the holidays is the perfect way to put the spirit of Christmas into action.

• Volunteer at a local food bank or toy drive. 
• Organize a neighborhood caroling group. 
• Adopt a family in need through local organizations or your church. 
• Donate gently used items before the new year. 

• Bake cookies for firefighters or nursing home residents. 
• Participate in a charity run (like a Jingle Bell 5K). 
• Collect winter coats and blankets for shelters. 
• Spend an afternoon making care packages for the homeless.

Self-Care and Indulgent Treats 

The season is so busy that sometimes we need to take a break and indulge ourselves. It may seem selfish, but this can also revitalize us.

• Schedule that long-overdue spa day or massage. 

• Take yourself on a solo coffee shop date with a good book. 
• Sleep in without guilt and read in bed until noon. 
• Stay in your pajamas all day and watch a Hallmark movie.

• Treat yourself to a new cozy robe or slippers. 
• Book a mani-pedi appointment.
• Enjoy a leisurely bubble bath with candles and music. 
• Leisurely browse your favorite bookstore or antique mall. 
• Order takeout from your favorite restaurant just because.

Family Bonding Activities

Spending time as a family builds memories and traditions. It also teaches children that Christmas isn’t just about presents under the tree.

• Drive around looking at Christmas lights with hot cocoa. 
• Go ice skating at a local rink. 

• Visit a Christmas tree farm or light display. 
• Have a family game night with new board games. 
• Make a gingerbread house together.
• Attend a local holiday concert or theater production. 
• Go sledding, play football in the snow, or build a snowman. 

• Make reindeer food to sprinkle on Christmas Eve. 
• Create an Advent or countdown calendar with daily activities. 
• Do random acts of kindness as a family.

Kids Activities

Once kids are out of school, they need activities to entertain them and keep them busy – let’s be honest, not drive their parents crazy. Here are some easy ideas to keep them happy, occupied, and productive.

• Let kids camp out under the Christmas tree.
• Have a pajama day with no agenda. 
• Make paper snowflakes to decorate windows. 
• Read Advent stories each night.
• Draw Christmas cards to mail to friends.
• Let kids pick the dinner menu one night or if they are old enough, make dinner. 
• Create time capsules to open next year. 
• Make homemade playdough or slime for rainy days.
• Let them bake cookies.

Outdoor and Active Adventures 

Depending on the weather, if it’s possible to be outside, the fresh, crisp air of December can be so invigorating. Bundle up and spend time in your winter wonderland.

• Take a winter nature walk and collect pinecones for decorating. 
• Go on a scavenger hunt for holiday decorations in your neighborhood. 
• Build a campfire or light a fire pit with s’mores and hot cider. TIP: Check your local ordinances for lighting a fire. 

• Visit a local Christmas market or craft fair. 
• Take a scenic drive to see holiday displays. 

• Go hiking on a crisp winter morning. 
• Feed the ducks at a local pond. 
• Get everyone out of the house and plan a day trip to a nearby town you’ve never explored. 
• Watch the sunrise or sunset from a cozy spot with a glass mulled wine or hot chocolate.

Home and  Nesting Projects 

The quiet between Christmas and New Year’s can be a time to give your home some attention.

• Deep clean and organize one room before the new year.
• Rearrange furniture for a fresh perspective.
• Create a cozy reading nook with blankets and pillows. 
• Start a winter herb garden on your windowsill.
• Organize photos and create a year-in-review album.
• Tackle that closet cleanout you’ve been postponing. 
• Light candles throughout your home for ambiance.

• Make your bedroom feel like a hotel retreat by adding new sheets, candles, and pretty pillows.

Kitchen and Cooking Fun

Christmas goodies, both sweet and savory, are a big part of the holidays. This is the time to share delicious homemade recipes with friends and family.

• Host a cookie exchange with friends.

• Try recipes from different holiday traditions around the world. 
• Make homemade gifts like jam, fudge, or spice mixes. 
• Discover a new holiday cocktail to enjoy. 

• Learn how to bake bread from scratch.

• Host a very casual soup-and-salad dinner party.
• Experiment with a new recipe you’ve always wanted to make. 
• Make and freeze meals for a busy January. 

Personal Growth and Reflection

Christmas can be stressful. For some, it can be a sad time of year, missing loved ones who are no longer here. Journaling, meditating, and relaxing can help alleviate these feelings.

• Journal about your year and set intentions for the New Year. 

• Choose a new skill to learn through online tutorials. 
• Start a gratitude journal. 
• Organize your digital files and photos. 
• Sign up for a course online or on a podcast.
• Update your resume or LinkedIn profile. 
• Read a personal development book.
• Meditate or try a new wellness practice.

• Declutter your phone apps and subscriptions. 
• Plan trips or goals for the upcoming year.

Social and Friendship Activities 

Hospitality is never more offered and accepted than during the Christmas holidays. It’s time for fun gatherings with a theme (ugly sweaters?) or just for being with friends. Here are some ideas to try.

• Host a casual open house or drop-in party on New Year’s Day.
• Plan a girls’ night with wine and charcuterie. 
• Schedule coffee dates with friends you haven’t seen.
• Host an ugly sweater party. 
• Organize a potluck dinner or progressive dinner with neighbors. 

• Have friends over for brunch after church.  
• Make reservations for a book club holiday gathering. 

Budget-Friendly Free Activities 

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have fun during the holidays. Many activities are free – if you are creative and resourceful. 

• Window shop downtown without buying anything. 

• Attend free community concerts or events.
• Watch holiday specials on TV together. 
• Look through old photo albums. 
• Teach kids a card game you loved growing up. Stargaze on a clear night.
• Turn on Christmas music and have a dance party in your living room. 
• Make paper chains or other free decorations. 
• Play charades, Trivial Pursuit, or other no-prep games.

I hope that these suggestions help you enjoy your Christmas holidays. As we remember the “reason for the season”, it is our family, friends, neighbors, and community that are our support system.

Keep this list of fun things to do in December. It will be good to refer to in future years. Pick out the suggestions that speak to you and your situation.