11 Free Activities To Enjoy On Christmas Day

Ah, Christmas Day - a time for relaxing, indulging in delicious food and spending quality time with loved ones. But for those who are looking to add a little bit of excitement to their festive day, we've compiled a list of 11 free activities that are sure to keep you entertained. From taking a scenic hike to volunteering at a nearby charity, these activities are perfect for anyone looking to make the most out of their Christmas Day - without breaking the bank. So put on your comfiest sweater, grab a mug of hot cocoa, and let's get started!

Watch Christmas movies at home

Christmas is a magical time of the year that should be enjoyed with friends and family. On Christmas Day, it's common to spend the day indulging in festive meals and exchanging gifts. However, not everyone has plans for this special day. If you find yourself with nothing to do on Christmas Day, don't worry. There are plenty of fun and free things to do that will make your holiday memorable. One of the best ways to spend your Christmas Day is watching Christmas movies at home.

Watching Christmas movies on Christmas Day is a long-standing tradition that never gets old. It's a perfect way to unwind and relax, while enjoying classic movies that remind us of the joy and warmth of this festive season. And the best part is that it's completely free! All you need is a comfortable spot on the couch, some snacks, and a good selection of Christmas movies.

There are so many great Christmas movies to choose from, but some of the classics that will get you into the spirit of the season include "It's a Wonderful Life," "A Christmas Carol," and "Home Alone." These movies are full of warmth, humor, and heart, and will definitely put a smile on your face.

A great way to enjoy your Christmas movie marathon is to turn it into a family event. Invite your relatives and friends who may also be looking for something to do on Christmas Day and spend the day watching your favorite Christmas films together. This will create a great atmosphere of warmth, laughter, and bonding, which is what the holiday season is all about.

You can also add a twist to your Christmas movie marathon by creating a theme. Watch only classic Christmas movies, or focus on holiday comedies. You can even turn it into a Christmas party by having everyone bring a snack or dish to share.

In conclusion, if you find yourself without plans on Christmas Day, watching Christmas movies at home is a great way to spend the day. And best of all, it's free! Whether you're watching alone or with family and friends, a cozy movie marathon is a perfect way to indulge in the magic of the season. So sit back, relax, grab some snacks, and enjoy a day filled with heartwarming moments and classic tales. Merry Christmas!

Go for a walk or hike in a local park

Christmas Day is a special day that people wait for eagerly every year. It is a day to spend time with family and friends and relish the holiday spirit. While many people enjoy spending money on elaborate celebrations and extravagant gifts, there are also plenty of free things to do on Christmas Day. One of the best options is to go for a walk or hike in a local park.

There are a few reasons why going for a walk or hike on Christmas Day is an excellent option. For one, it's a great way to burn off some of the calories from the rich holiday meals that are often consumed on this day. Additionally, it's a way to get some fresh air and exercise after spending days indoors during the winter season. And finally, it's a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the winter landscape.

When selecting a local park to visit, it's important to consider a few factors. Firstly, be sure to choose a park that's close to your home, so you don't have to spend too much time traveling. Secondly, make sure the park is open on Christmas Day and that there are no special events or closures that day. And finally, ensure that the park has a designated trail or walkway, so you don't get lost and can comfortably enjoy your hike or walk.

One of the great things about a walk or hike in a local park is that it offers an opportunity for reflection and solitude. Choosing a quiet and scenic spot in the park can provide a peaceful atmosphere that's conducive to relaxation and meditation. It can also be a great chance to clear your mind and reflect on the year that passed and look forward to the new year ahead.

In conclusion, going for a walk or hike in a local park is a great way to spend Christmas Day. It offers a chance to burn calories, enjoy fresh air, and appreciate the natural beauty of winter. Whether alone or with loved ones, a walk in the park can create a sense of calm and peace that's invaluable during the holiday season. So, go ahead and explore the nature around you and make the most of this special day without breaking the bank!

Bake Christmas cookies

Christmas Day is a time for celebration, but it can also be a time to embrace new traditions without breaking the bank. One such tradition is baking Christmas cookies, and you don't have to spend a dime to enjoy the experience. Here are some tips on how to bake Christmas cookies for free on Christmas Day.

Firstly, take stock of what ingredients you already have at home. Chances are, you may have the basic ingredients already: flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and baking powder. These ingredients are enough to make simple sugar cookies or butter cookies, which can be decorated with whatever toppings you have on hand, such as sprinkles, chocolate chips, or frosting.

If you don't have any cookie cutters, don't fret! You can still make fun and festive cookies by using household items as cutters. Try using a drinking glass, a small bowl, or even a knife to cut out shapes. You can also shape the dough by hand into simple shapes like stars or hearts.

Another option is to get creative with the ingredients you have on hand. For example, if you have oatmeal, you can make oatmeal cookies with raisins or chocolate chips. If you have almonds, you can make almond butter cookies or almond shortbread cookies.

Baking Christmas cookies can also be a fun activity to do with family and friends. Get everyone involved in mixing the dough, shaping the cookies, and decorating them. You can make it into a competition with categories like "best tasting", "most creative", or "best looking."

Overall, baking Christmas cookies is a wonderful tradition that can be enjoyed without spending a lot of money. Just take stock of what ingredients you have on hand, get creative with cookie cutters and toppings, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. With a little bit of effort and imagination, you can create delicious and beautiful Christmas cookies that are sure to impress!

Play board games or cards with family

Christmas Day is typically a time for families to gather together and celebrate. However, after the excitement of opening presents and enjoying a big meal, it’s not uncommon to find yourself wondering how to fill the rest of the day. If you’re looking for free things to do on Christmas Day, why not gather the family together for some board games or card games?

Playing games is a great way to bond with your loved ones and pass the time in a fun and engaging way. It’s also a great opportunity to make memories that will last for years to come. Here are some suggestions for games that are perfect for the whole family:

• Monopoly: This classic board game is a staple in many households. It’s a great way to teach kids about money management and decision-making, all while having fun.
• Uno: Whether you’re young or old, Uno is a fun and fast-paced card game that’s sure to get everyone laughing.
• Scrabble: This game challenges players to use their vocabulary and critical thinking skills to come up with the best words possible. It’s a great way to keep your brain sharp while having fun with family.
• Apples to Apples: This fun and creative card game is perfect for larger groups. Players take turns choosing the best “apples” (cards with different nouns on them) to match a chosen adjective.
• Jenga: This classic game of skill and strategy is fun for all ages. Players take turns removing blocks from a tower without causing it to topple.

There are many other games that you can play with your family on Christmas Day, but the key is to find something that everyone will enjoy. Don’t be afraid to try something new or mix things up with some friendly competition. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to have fun and enjoy the time with your loved ones.

Have a Christmas scavenger hunt

Christmas is a special day for many families, a time filled with love, laughter, presents, and a delicious feast. However, with everything going on during the holiday season, it's easy to overspend and drain your bank account. But, just because you're on a tight budget doesn't mean that you can't enjoy this special day with your loved ones. Here's an idea for a fun and free activity that you can do on Christmas day - a Christmas scavenger hunt!

A Christmas scavenger hunt is an excellent way to get everyone in the festive spirit. It's easy to set up and doesn't require any fancy materials or props. All you need is a piece of paper with a list of items for your family to find, some pens, and a camera to capture the memories.

First, create a list of Christmas-related things that your family can find around the house or outside. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• A red and white candy cane
• A wrapped gift
• A Christmas tree ornament
• A photo of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
• A letter to Santa
• A red and green decoration
• A piece of tinsel
• A Christmas card from a friend or relative
• A holiday recipe
• A picture of the family in ugly Christmas sweaters

Once you've created your list, give a copy to each member of your family, along with a pen, and set them off on their scavenger hunt. They can work alone or in pairs, and the first one to find everything on the list wins a prize - it could be something as simple as getting to pick the movie you watch later in the day.

To add an extra layer of excitement, have your family take photos of themselves with the items they've found. This will create lasting memories that you can look back on for years to come. You could even create a scrapbook of all the photos to commemorate your Christmas scavenger hunt.

In conclusion, a Christmas scavenger hunt is a fun and free activity that's perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. It's easy to set up and requires no expensive materials or props, making it an excellent option for families on a budget. So, why not give it a try this year and see how much fun you can have with your loved ones on Christmas day? Happy hunting!

Decorate your home with homemade decorations

Christmas Day is a magical time of year when families and friends come together to celebrate one of the most joyous holidays on the calendar. While you may have some last-minute Christmas shopping to do, there are also plenty of free activities you can enjoy on the big day itself. One great way to make the most of the occasion is by getting creative with homemade Christmas decorations.

There are a variety of ways to decorate your home with homemade decorations. Firstly, you can use everyday materials such as paper, scissors, and glue to create paper cut-out decorations. If you're feeling extra artistic, you could add a touch of glitter or paint to give your creations some extra sparkle. Christmas trees, snowflakes, and stars are all popular designs that you can cut out and hang up around your home.

Another fun activity is creating your own Christmas wreath. You can start with a plain wreath form made from foam or wire and then add natural materials such as pine cones, holly, and berries. You could use items you have gathered from your own garden or local park - and why not invite your friends and family to join in too? Making your own festive wreath is a great way to spend some quality time together while creating something that will look beautiful on your front door.

Finally, don't forget about lighting! Homemade candles are easy to make, and they look great as part of your Christmas decorations. You can use old candle wax, add your favourite scents, and pour the wax into empty jars or even teacups. Once the wax has hardened, you can add some twine or ribbon to create a rustic look. These homemade candles will give your home a warm and inviting glow that's perfect for Christmas.

In conclusion, decorating your home with homemade decorations is a fun and creative way to get into the festive spirit. Whether you're cutting out paper snowflakes or making your own Christmas wreath or candles, there's something for every member of the family to enjoy. Not only is it a great way to spend time together but it's also low-cost and will give your home a personal touch that will leave you feeling proud of showcasing your DIY skills. So why not give it a go this Christmas Day?

Volunteer at a local shelter or food bank

Christmas day is a wonderful time to spend with family and friends, but it can also be a great opportunity to give back to those in need. Whether you're looking for a way to help out during the holiday season or just looking for a way to make a difference in your community, volunteering at a local shelter or food bank is a great way to do it.

There are plenty of shelters and food banks in almost every community that are open on Christmas day and looking for volunteers to help out. These organizations are always in need of help, but the holiday season can be especially busy as they work to distribute meals to those in need and provide shelter for the homeless.

Volunteering at a local shelter or food bank is not only a great way to give back, but it's also a wonderful way to connect with your community and meet new people. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside other volunteers who share your passion for helping others, and you'll get to meet the people who are benefiting from your efforts.

If you're interested in volunteering on Christmas day, the first step is to find a shelter or food bank in your area that is looking for volunteers. You can do this by checking online or by contacting your local government or community organization. Once you've found an organization that is looking for volunteers, reach out to them to find out what their needs are and how you can help.

When volunteering on Christmas day, it's important to be prepared. This may involve bringing warm clothing and gloves if you're working outside, or preparing food if you're working in a kitchen. You should also be prepared to work long hours, as these organizations often need help throughout the day.

Overall, volunteering at a local shelter or food bank on Christmas day is a fantastic way to give back to your community and make a difference in the lives of those in need. Not only will you be making a positive impact, but you'll also be gaining valuable life experience and connecting with others who share your passion for giving back. So this year, instead of spending your day watching TV or opening presents, consider volunteering your time and making a difference in your community.

Watch the Christmas parade or concert online

Christmas is a season of joy and celebration, and what better way to enjoy the festivities than by watching the annual Christmas parade or concert. However, going out to attend the events in person can be too hectic and expensive. But fear not, as there are free alternatives to enjoy the parade or concert from the comfort of your own home.

One of the first things you can do is search online for live streaming of the Christmas parade or concert. Most events are broadcasted online for people who can't attend the event in person. You can watch these events on your computer, mobile device or TV from the comfort of your home. You can look for the website of the event and check if they offer live streaming of the event or check sites like YouTube or Facebook where the event is being broadcasted for free.

Another option to watch the Christmas parade or concert online is to look for your local news website. Usually, local news channels film the parade and broadcast it on their website. This is an excellent opportunity to view the parade for free, and you may even see additional interviews and behind-the-scenes footage of the event.

Additionally, a lot of public television stations broadcast the Christmas concert. Check your local PBS station to see if they are airing a Christmas concert. You may also find some concerts available on channels like VH1 or MTV. These concerts are often shown multiple times, so you may be able to catch them several times throughout the holiday season.

Lastly, you can also search for online forums related to Christmas events where fellow enthusiasts have shared free links to view the events. You'll find several groups on Facebook, Reddit, and other online platforms that are sharing live streams of the Christmas parade or concert.

In conclusion, watching a Christmas parade or concert online can be an excellent way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with all the festivities, music, and lights. All you need is a reliable internet connection and a device to watch it on, and voila! you can enjoy the event from the comfort of your own home. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the Christmas parade or concert online.

Have a family photo session

Christmas is a time for families to come together and celebrate the holiday season. While traditional Christmas activities such as gift-giving and feasting are great, they can also become quite expensive. If you're looking for a way to enjoy the holiday without spending a lot of money, here's an idea: have a family photo session.

Creating memories with family on Christmas day is a great way to celebrate the occasion, and capturing these memories through photographs makes it even more special. Here are some tips for having a successful Christmas photo session:

• Find a good location – A good location can make all the difference in the photographs. It can be your living room, your garden, or even a nearby park.
• Dress up – Dressing up in festive outfits can add to the charm of your photos. You can wear matching Christmas sweaters, red and green clothes, or even dress as Santa Claus.
• Use props – Using props is a great way to make your photos more festive. You can use Christmas lights, ornaments, or even a tree as a backdrop.
• Take candid shots – Capturing candid moments is a great way to show the true essence of your family and their interactions. Take photos of everyone laughing, opening presents, or even playing games.
• Edit and share – Edit your photographs to make them look their best. Use an online photo editor or even Photoshop to make the colors pop and add filters. You can then share these photos with your family and friends via email, social media, or a private sharing platform.

Having a family photo session is a great way to celebrate Christmas day. It is a fun and free activity that everyone can enjoy. Not only will you have beautiful photos to cherish forever, but you'll also have created unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Build a snowman or have a snowball fight

Christmas day is always an exciting time of the year. This is the time when family and friends come together to share the joy of the season. If you are looking for free things to do on Christmas day, building a snowman or having a snowball fight is a fun activity that can be enjoyed by all ages. Here are some tips to help you make the most of this activity:

Choose a location

The first thing you need to do is to choose a location. It can be your backyard or a nearby park. Make sure the area is safe and away from cars or other hazards. Check the weather forecast before you start, and make sure the conditions are suitable for building a snowman or having a snowball fight.

Get the right equipment

To build a snowman, you'll need gloves, a hat, a scarf, and some sticks for arms. For a snowball fight, you'll need gloves, warm clothing, and some friends to play with. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather and don't forget to bring a camera to capture the memories.

Start building

To build a snowman, start by rolling a snowball until it is big enough to form the base of your snowman. Keep rolling the snowball until it is the right size and then repeat the process for the middle and top section of your snowman. Don't forget to add some decorations like a carrot nose, coal for the eyes, and a hat and scarf. If you want to have a snowball fight, divide into teams and set some rules. Make sure you have a safe distance between each other and have plenty of snowballs ready.

Enjoy the activity

Building a snowman or having a snowball fight is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy. Take the time to enjoy the beauty of the snow and the company of your loved ones. Don't forget to take breaks and warm up with a hot drink or some warm soup.

In conclusion, building a snowman or having a snowball fight is a great way to spend Christmas day. It is a fun activity that is suitable for all ages and can be enjoyed by a group of people. With the right equipment and a bit of creativity, you can make the most of this activity and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, grab your gloves and get ready to make some snowballs, it's going to be a fun day!

Host a virtual Christmas party with family and friends

Christmas is a time for joy, love, and togetherness. While some may prefer to spend the day alone, many others like to enjoy the holiday with family and friends. But, with the ongoing pandemic, it can be challenging to gather in person. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to celebrate virtually - and for free! One of the best options is to host a virtual Christmas party with your loved ones.

Here's how you can make it happen:

• Choose a platform: There are numerous options for video conferencing, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, FaceTime, and Google Meet. Decide which platform works best for you, and send out links to your family and friends ahead of time.
• Create a theme: It could be ugly sweaters, pajama party, or even a Christmas movie marathon. The key is to get everyone in the holiday spirit and make it fun.
• Plan activities: There are plenty of free games and quizzes available online that you can play together. You could also organize a virtual Secret Santa or even a bake-off challenge. Remember to keep it simple, and ensure everyone can participate.
• Share a meal: While it may not be possible to share a meal in person, you can still enjoy the same food together. Consider sending out a list of recipes beforehand, and encourage everyone to make the same dish. You can even share photos of your creations during the party.
• Set the mood: Decorate your space with Christmas lights, candles, and ornaments. Play some holiday music in the background, and maybe even sing some carols together.

Hosting a virtual Christmas party gives everyone an opportunity to connect despite the distance. It's a chance to share memories and create new ones. Plus, it's a low-cost and safe way of celebrating the day without having to leave your home.

In conclusion, if you're looking for free things to do on Christmas day, consider hosting a virtual party with your family and friends. With a little planning, you can make it a memorable experience that brings everyone together during these challenging times.

Frequently asked questions