So, here’s the thing: most of us didn’t choose the holiday traditions we grew up with. We just kinda inherited them—like Aunt Carol’s fruitcake recipe or those weird old tree ornaments that might actually be haunted.
But now? It’s your turn. Whether you’ve got little kids, teens, or even just you and your partner doing your thing, it’s never too late to start Christmas traditions that actually mean something to your family.
And no, I’m not talking about doing the Elf on the Shelf every day for a month (unless chaos and stress are your love language). I’m talking about simple, memorable, feel-good traditions that your people will actually look forward to every year.
Let’s build some magic, shall we?
1. Christmas Pajamas + Movie Night 🎥
Let’s start strong. There’s just something about matching Christmas PJs and watching a holiday movie that hits every single time. It’s cozy, low-effort, and honestly—it’s Instagram gold.
How to make it a tradition:
- Gift everyone a new set of PJs on Christmas Eve.
- Rotate who picks the movie each year.
- Load up on snacks: popcorn, hot cocoa, peppermint everything.
Movies that never fail: Home Alone, Elf, The Grinch, and for the adults… maybe Love Actually. (Just skip over the awkward parts when the kids are still awake 😬.)
2. Annual Ornament Exchange
Everyone picks (or makes!) an ornament that represents something from their year—a hobby, a trip, a running joke, anything. Then you add it to the tree.
Why it’s so good:
- You build a tree full of your memories.
- It’s fun to look back and go, “Oh right, the year you got really into roller skating.”
- Works great with kids, couples, or friend groups too.
FYI: This tradition ages well. Years later, your tree becomes a scrapbook you actually want to look at.
3. Christmas Morning Cinnamon Rolls (or Your Signature Breakfast)
Look, we all love presents—but what if Christmas breakfast became just as legendary?
Pick a meal that only happens on December 25th. Whether it’s cinnamon rolls, monkey bread, breakfast burritos, or a mimosa bar (for the 21+ crew)—make it a staple.
Pro tip: Let the kids help prep the night before. That way you’re not flipping pancakes while everyone else is knee-deep in wrapping paper.
4. The “Secret Kindness” Tradition
Here’s a warm-fuzzy one that actually sticks.
In the week leading up to Christmas, everyone in the family draws a name and secretly does something kind for that person. It can be super simple: making their bed, writing a nice note, or giving up the last cookie (harder than it sounds).
Why it rocks:
- Teaches kids (and adults, let’s be real) that giving > getting.
- Builds connection and intentional kindness.
- It’s like Secret Santa—but with warm vibes instead of gift cards.
Keep it anonymous until Christmas Day, then reveal who had who!
5. “Lights and Lattes” Night 🌟☕
Pick one night in December where you all grab some hot drinks, hop in the car (or bundle up for a walk), and go look at Christmas lights.
Make a whole thing of it:
- Vote on the “Most Extra House,” “Best Use of Inflatables,” and “Looks Like Santa Lives There.”
- Play a holiday playlist while you drive.
- Bring cookies in the car. Always bring cookies.
It’s simple. It’s free. And it never gets old.
6. DIY Gift Wrapping Party (Yes, Really)
I used to hate wrapping gifts—until we turned it into a full-blown event.
Put on holiday tunes, light a candle, pour something festive (mulled wine, anyone?), and set up a gift-wrapping station. Bonus points if you let everyone design their own tags or try furoshiki-style wrapping (aka the art of wrapping with fabric… so Pinterest).
Why this wins:
- Makes gift wrapping actually fun (?!)
- Great way to sneak in quality time
- Everyone leaves feeling like a crafting genius… or at least less stressed
Also: scissors will go missing at least twice. It’s tradition now.
7. 12 Days of Books (aka Bookmas 📚)
Instead of chocolates in an advent calendar, try this: wrap 12 books and open one each night leading up to Christmas.
This one’s perfect for families with little ones who love bedtime stories—but honestly? It works just as well for grown-ups. Make it themed (Christmas books, feel-good reads, even comic books), and let everyone take turns choosing.
Why it’s magical:
- Builds anticipation
- Creates sweet moments before bedtime
- Encourages reading without it feeling like homework (score!)
Plus, it gives you a reason to cozy up and slow down together each night.
8. The Christmas Eve Box 🎁
Instead of waiting ‘til Christmas morning, give each person a little Christmas Eve box filled with things to enjoy that night.
Popular box fillers:
- New pajamas (obviously)
- A holiday movie or book
- Hot cocoa mix + marshmallows
- A small toy or treat
Why it’s a hit:
- Sets the mood for a chill, cozy night in
- Gives everyone something to open early (which kids LOVE)
- Helps build that pre-Christmas buzz
Also… there’s just something super satisfying about opening a box full of festive goodies.
9. Letters to Future Selves
On Christmas Day (or Eve), take 10 minutes to write a letter to your future self or each other. You can talk about:
- What you loved most this year
- What you hope next year brings
- Funny stuff that happened that day
Seal it up and put it in a special envelope or box labeled “Open Christmas [Next Year].”
Why it’s surprisingly meaningful:
- Reflects on gratitude and growth
- Adds a personal time-capsule moment to your holiday
- Becomes one of those traditions you really look forward to
We started this a few years ago and now it’s one of our absolute favorites. 🥹
10. The Yearly “Family Photo Fail” Challenge 📸
Instead of trying to get the perfect family photo… try to get the funniest.
Set the timer, throw on ridiculous holiday outfits, use props, and go full chaos mode. Ugly sweaters? Yes. Reindeer antlers on the dog? Absolutely.
Then frame the photo each year—no matter how ridiculous it is. Hang them all up in one place and let the gallery grow over the years.
Why it’s unforgettable:
- Embraces the imperfection (which, let’s be honest, is way more fun)
- Builds laughter into your tradition
- Shows your family’s story over time—goofy and all
Also, years from now, these photos will be pure gold. Trust me.
Final Thoughts: Traditions = Memories You Actually Want to Keep
Here’s the thing: you don’t need 27 Pinterest-worthy traditions to make Christmas magical. You just need a few that feel right for your family—and then actually stick with them.
Whether it’s goofy photo fails or cinnamon rolls that somehow never turn out the same way twice—those are the little things your kids (and you) will remember most.
So what’s your vibe this Christmas? Chill and cozy? Loud and silly? Sentimental with a side of frosting?
Pick one or two new traditions this year and give them a test drive. You might be surprised which ones turn into “we do this every year” staples.
🎄Happy memory-making, friend.
And hey—if your new tradition involves cookies… I’m free to taste-test 😉