12 Fun Activities To Do The Week Before Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of Christmas is felt everywhere. With the most awaited holiday just around the corner, people are busy making plans and preparations for the big day. But before you get too caught up in the frenzy of last-minute shopping and gift wrapping, take some time to relax and have some fun. To help you get in the festive spirit, we've compiled a list of 12 fun activities to do the week before Christmas that will keep you entertained and add to the excitement of the holiday season. So, let's dive in and explore some great ideas to make the days leading up to Christmas even more special and memorable.

Decorate the tree

As the holiday season approaches, many people start to feel the festive spirit. One of the most iconic aspects of Christmas is decorating the tree, creating a dazzling and magical centerpiece for the home. If you're wondering what to do in the week leading up to Christmas, decorating the tree is a must! Here are some tips to make sure your tree is the talk of the town.

Start by choosing a tree that's the right size and shape for your space. Real trees are traditional and give off a lovely scent, but artificial trees have come a long way in recent years and often look just as good as the real thing. If you opt for a real tree, make sure to place it in a stand that will keep it securely upright. You don't want it falling over and spoiling all of your hard work!

Then it's time to add the lights, which many people find to be the trickiest part of decorating the tree. Start at the top and work your way down, wrapping the lights around each branch as you go. If you're using new lights, plug them in first to make sure they work. There's nothing worse than decorating your tree only to realize that half the lights don't light up!

Once you've added the lights, it's time to add the decorations. This is where you can get really creative, using a variety of ornaments and other decorative items to give your tree a unique look. Some people like to color-coordinate their decorations, while others prefer a more eclectic mix of colors and styles. Whatever your preference, aim for a balance of small and large, round and elongated, shiny and matte decorations.

Finally, top the tree off with a star or angel. This is the crowning glory of your tree and should be a centerpiece in its own right. Make sure your topper is securely fastened so it doesn't wobble or fall off. Now stand back and admire your handiwork!

By following these steps, you'll have a stunning Christmas tree that's sure to impress your family and friends. Not only will it be a symbol of the holiday spirit, but it will also create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in your home. So why not make decorating the tree one of your top priorities in the week leading up to Christmas? It's a fun and festive activity that's sure to put you in the mood for the holidays!

Bake holiday treats

Baking holiday treats is a fun and delicious way to get into the festive spirit. With Christmas just around the corner, the week before is the perfect time to start whipping up some sweet treats for family and friends. Here are some ideas to get started:

• Classic Christmas Cookies: Sugar cookies, gingerbread, and shortbread are all classic holiday cookies that everyone loves. Spend an afternoon in the kitchen baking batches of these sweet treats. Decorate them with frosting, sprinkles, and icing for an extra touch of festivity.
• Festive Fudge: Fudge is a simple yet tasty treat that can be made in a variety of flavors. Try making peppermint, eggnog, or gingerbread fudge for a unique twist on this classic confection.
• Fruitcake: While fruitcake may not be everyone's favorite, it's a classic holiday dessert that's worth trying at least once. Use a recipe that's been passed down for generations and make it your own by adding your favorite nuts, dried fruits, and spices.
• Bread Pudding: This comforting dessert is perfect for cold winter nights and makes use of leftover bread. Add dried fruit, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a touch of holiday flavor.
• Chocolate Truffles: These rich and decadent treats are easy to make and perfect for gifting. Roll them in festive sprinkles or cocoa powder for an extra touch of holiday cheer.

No matter what you choose to bake, be sure to share them with loved ones and enjoy the time spent in the kitchen. Happy baking and happy holidays!

Have a holiday movie marathon

The week before Christmas can be a hectic time with last minute shopping, wrapping presents, and attending holiday parties. However, it’s important to take a break from the chaos and enjoy the festive season. One way to unwind and get into the Christmas spirit is to have a holiday movie marathon.

Gather your family or friends and designate a night for a cozy movie night. Choose classic Christmas movies like "Home Alone," "It’s a Wonderful Life," "A Christmas Carol," or "Elf" to watch. Make sure to whip up some hot cocoa and popcorn for everyone to snack on while watching the movies.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider having a Christmas movie marathon weekend where you watch holiday movies for an entire day or weekend. Create a festive atmosphere by adding Christmas lights and decorations to your living room. Gather blankets, pillows and even make popcorn garlands to hang near your TV screen.

Get creative with the food and drinks you serve during your holiday movie marathon. For breakfast, make waffles shaped like snowflakes or Christmas trees. For lunch or dinner, cook up some traditional Christmas dishes like ham, roast beef or a hearty stew with root vegetables. For snacks, consider making Christmas-themed treats like sugar cookies or gingerbread men.

If you don’t want to watch movies that are too cheesy or cliche, you can always opt for non-traditional Christmas films like "Die Hard," "Gremlins," or "Krampus." These movies can bring a touch of humor and excitement to your holiday movie marathon.

Having a holiday movie marathon is a fun way to spend time with loved ones and to bask in the spirit of the season. So, grab your favorite blanket, some snacks and a cozy spot on the couch and settle in for a night of Christmas movies.

Write and mail Christmas cards

Christmas is just around the corner and the excitement of the holiday season is in the air. With so many things to do before the big day, it’s easy to overlook a task that may seem small but holds so much value - writing and mailing Christmas cards. Christmas cards are a great way to connect with family and friends, pass on holiday greetings, and make someone's day.

Here are some tips on writing and mailing your Christmas cards:

• Make a list first. Before you start writing your Christmas cards, make a list of all the people you want to send them to. Include their names, addresses and postal codes. This list will help you keep track of whom you’ve sent cards to and who you may have missed.
• Get the right cards. Choose the cards that suit your taste, show the true spirit of Christmas and are appropriate for the recipients. Whether you opt for traditional, religious, or modern designs, ensure you find the perfect card that matches your personality and the person you’re sending it to.
• Personalize your cards. Add a personal touch to your Christmas cards by including a heartwarming message or a funny anecdote, or even a picture of your family or pets. Remember, this is the perfect time to show your loved ones that you care and are thinking of them.
• Check your spelling and grammar. Nothing ruins a great card faster than incorrect spelling or sloppy handwriting. Double-check for errors and read your message aloud to ensure that it makes sense to others.
• Mail your cards in good time. The best time to send Christmas cards is the week before Christmas. Remember to account for international shipping times, so that your cards reach loved ones in other countries in time for the holidays.

In conclusion, writing and sending Christmas cards is a thoughtful gesture that shows your loved ones that you’re thinking of them during the holiday season. With these tips, writing and mailing your cards should be an enjoyable task that spreads the holiday spirit and brings joy to your friends and family.

Make homemade ornaments

With the Christmas season just around the corner, many people are looking for fun and festive activities to prepare for the big day. One of the most enjoyable things to do in the week leading up to Christmas is to make homemade ornaments. This is a great way to get into the festive spirit and create lasting memories with loved ones.

Making homemade ornaments is an easy and affordable way to create beautiful decorations for your home. There are many different types of ornaments that you can make using a variety of materials such as paper, felt, clay, and even natural elements like pinecones and twigs. Some popular homemade ornament ideas include:

• Paper snowflakes: Cut out different shapes from white paper and glue them together to create unique snowflakes that can be hung from your tree or windows.
• Felt animals: Use felt in different colors to create cute little animals like reindeer and owls. Stuff them with cotton batting and add some decorative touches like ribbons and buttons.
• Salt dough ornaments: Mix together flour, salt, and water to create a dough that can be rolled out and cut into shapes like stars and trees. Bake in the oven and then paint or decorate however you like.
• Pinecone ornaments: Use natural elements like pinecones and twigs to create rustic and charming decorations. Add some glitter or spray paint for a more festive touch.

Making homemade ornaments is not only a fun activity, but it also allows you to create personalized decorations that are unique to your home. You can get as creative as you want and even involve children in the process for some extra holiday cheer. Making homemade ornaments is also a great way to save money on decorations, as store-bought ornaments can often be quite expensive.

In conclusion, making homemade ornaments is a great way to get into the festive spirit and create beautiful decorations for your home. Whether you choose to make paper snowflakes or salt dough ornaments, this activity is sure to bring joy to you and your loved ones. So why not gather some materials, put on some holiday music, and start crafting!

Go ice skating (if available)

The week before Christmas is an exciting time when everyone is getting into the festive spirit and looking for fun activities to do. Ice skating is a perfect activity to enjoy during the holiday season. If you are lucky enough to live in an area with an ice rink, take advantage of it and go ice skating!

Ice skating is a great way to get in some exercise, have fun with your friends and family, and create lifelong memories. During the holiday season, many ice rinks deck themselves out with festive lights and decorations. You can enjoy the ambiance of the holiday season while gliding across the ice.

Before heading to the ice rink, make sure you dress appropriately. Wear warm, comfortable clothing that you can move in easily. Skates can be rented at the rink, but if you own a pair, be sure to take them along. Wear a pair of gloves to keep your hands warm and protect them from any falls.

If you are new to ice skating, be sure to rent a pair of skates that fit well and are comfortable. Ice skating takes some practice, so don't be discouraged if you fall a few times. Take it slow, hold onto the side of the rink if you need to, and relax and enjoy the experience.

If you are an experienced ice skater, try some new moves on the ice. Show off your skills and impress your friends and family members. Be sure to look around and enjoy the scenery, the festive lights, and the seasonal music.

Ice skating is an activity that the entire family can enjoy. Bring the kids along for a fun time, or plan a romantic date night with your significant other. It is a great way to bond with loved ones and get into the holiday spirit.

In conclusion, taking an opportunity to go ice skating during the week before Christmas is a great way to add some holiday cheer, and enjoy an activity that the whole family can participate in. So, put on some warm clothes, and head down to the nearest ice rink for a magical experience. Happy skating!

Attend a virtual holiday concert

The holiday season is all about spending time with loved ones, enjoying festive treats and decorations, and creating wonderful memories. One fun way to get in the holiday spirit is attending a virtual holiday concert. With the ongoing pandemic, many music artists and organizations have shifted the traditional live shows to online streaming, making it easier and safer for everyone to participate from the comfort of their own home.

Attending a virtual holiday concert is a great way to kick off your last week before Christmas. With a wide range of music artists and genres to choose from, there's bound to be something for everyone. You can find a variety of concerts hosted on different platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Zoom. Some of the popular virtual concerts this year include Mariah Carey's Magical Christmas Special, Andrea Bocelli's Believe in Christmas, and Pentatonix - The Lucky Ones: Part II.

Virtual concerts offer many benefits that you wouldn't find in live shows. You can enjoy the music from your own comfortable seat, save money on tickets and transportation costs, and avoid the crowds and long queues. You can also invite your friends or family members to join in and make it a shared experience. Plus, virtual concerts are usually available for on-demand viewing, which means you can watch them again or catch up on the performances you missed.

Attending a virtual holiday concert is not just about the music; it's also about spreading joy, hope, and positivity. It's an opportunity to connect with others, even if it's just through a screen. So, grab your festive snacks, turn on your Christmas lights, and get ready to sing along with your favorite holiday tunes. It's a great way to get yourself and your loved ones into the holiday spirit and make the week before Christmas a little brighter.

Make gingerbread houses

The countdown to Christmas has officially begun, and it's time to start planning all the activities that will make the holiday season extra special. One thing that many families enjoy doing in the week leading up to Christmas is making gingerbread houses. This fun and festive activity is perfect for getting into the holiday spirit and creating some delicious treats to share with loved ones.

To make a gingerbread house, you will need to gather a few key ingredients such as gingerbread dough, royal icing, and assorted candy and decorating supplies. You can make your own gingerbread dough using a simple recipe that includes flour, sugar, butter, molasses, and spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Or, if you're short on time, you can purchase pre-made gingerbread kits that come with all the necessary ingredients and instructions.

Once you have your dough, you can start shaping and cutting out the various pieces that will make up your gingerbread house. Depending on your level of skill and creativity, you can make a simple house with four walls and a roof, or you can go all out and create a more elaborate design with multiple levels, doors, windows, and other decorative touches.

Next, it's time to assemble your gingerbread house using royal icing as the glue. Be sure to hold each piece in place until the icing sets and the structure becomes stable. Then, you can start decorating with candy canes, gumdrops, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and any other treats that strike your fancy. Get creative and have fun with it – the sky's the limit when it comes to gingerbread house designs!

Making gingerbread houses is a great activity to do with kids, as it allows them to use their imaginations and develop their fine motor skills. Plus, it's a wonderful way to bond as a family and create lasting memories that you can treasure for years to come.

So go ahead and block out an afternoon or evening in the week before Christmas to make some gingerbread houses. Invite over some friends or family members, turn on some holiday music, and get ready for some festive fun. Whether you choose to eat your gingerbread houses or display them as decorations, they are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday celebrations.

Visit a holiday market (if available)

The week before Christmas is an exciting time of year, as people are busy finalizing their holiday preparations. One great way to get into the holiday spirit and check off some last-minute shopping is to visit a holiday market. Markets filled with the warmth of Christmas lights and the aromas of seasonal treats will instantly put you in the holiday mood. Here are some reasons why you should visit a holiday market in the week leading up to Christmas.

First, holiday markets are great places to find unique gifts and decorations that you won't find anywhere else. From handmade ornaments to locally crafted goods, there is a wide range of items to choose from. You can also find specialty foods and beverages like gourmet chocolates, hot cocoa mixes, and mulled wine that make perfect gifts or treats for yourself.

Second, holiday markets offer a fun and festive atmosphere that you can't find in traditional stores. Many markets feature live music performances, carolers, and festive light displays. The energy and excitement of the shoppers and vendors alike will fill you with the holiday spirit.

Third, by visiting a holiday market, you are supporting local businesses and artisans. Many vendors are small businesses or independent artists who put time and care into creating unique and high-quality products. By choosing to shop at a holiday market, you are contributing to the local economy and helping to support these individuals' passions.

To maximize your holiday market experience, take a look at the vendor list before you go and make a list of the booths you'd like to visit. This will help you navigate the market more efficiently and ensure that you don't miss out on any must-see vendors. Be sure to dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and bring a tote bag to carry all of your purchases.

In conclusion, visiting a holiday market in the week before Christmas is an excellent way to get into the holiday spirit, find unique gifts and decorations, enjoy a festive atmosphere, and support local vendors. So, grab a friend or family member and head to your local holiday market today!

Go on a holiday light tour (if available)

The week before Christmas can be a hectic time, but it's also a time to enjoy all the festivities of the season. One great way to get into the holiday spirit is to go on a holiday light tour, if available in your area.

A holiday light tour is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the season. Many towns and cities offer tours of decorated houses and streets, and some even have organized tours that take you to the best spots to see the lights. You can either drive yourself or join a tour group, depending on your preference.

Going on a holiday light tour is a great way to get outside and enjoy the crisp winter air, and it's also a fun activity to do with family and friends. You can make it into a special occasion by packing snacks or hot cocoa to enjoy while you drive around and take in the beauty of the lights.

Before you go on a holiday light tour, it's a good idea to research the best spots in your area to see the lights. You can check local websites or social media pages to find out where the best displays are located. It's also a good idea to plan your route ahead of time, so you don't miss any must-see displays.

Additionally, be sure to dress warmly and bring blankets if you plan on rolling down your windows to get a closer look at the lights. You don't want to be too cold to enjoy the experience!

In conclusion, going on a holiday light tour is a fun and festive activity to do in the week before Christmas. It's a great way to get into the holiday spirit, and it's something that everyone can enjoy. So, pack your snacks and hot cocoa, plan your route, and enjoy the beautiful lights!

Wrap gifts

As Christmas draws closer, there are a few important things you'll need to do to get ready for the big day. One of the most time-consuming tasks is wrapping presents for your loved ones. To make sure this process doesn't become overwhelming, we have compiled a list of important steps you can take to wrap your gifts efficiently and with style. Here is a guide on how to wrap gifts the week before Christmas.

• Make a list of all the gifts you need to wrap: This will help you avoid any last-minute panic about forgotten presents. You can also measure each gift to determine how much wrapping paper you will need.
• Gather all the necessary supplies: Wrapping paper, scissors, tape, ribbon, bows, and gift tags are a few essential items you'll need to get started. You may also want to consider adding some festive embellishments such as stickers or ornaments.
• Set up a wrapping station: A designated space for gift wrapping will make the process much more organized and efficient. Choose a flat surface to work on, like a table or desk, and set up all your supplies nearby.
• Wrap gifts as you buy them: Don't wait until the last minute to wrap your presents. Try to wrap them as you buy them, so you're not left with a huge pile of gifts to wrap all at once.
• Get creative with your wrapping: This is your chance to show off your creativity and make your gifts unique. Instead of traditional wrapping paper, consider using recycled materials like newspapers or brown paper bags. You can also add some personal touches, such as drawing or painting on the gift wrapping.
• Label your gifts: Make sure each gift is labeled with the recipient's name. This will ensure that the right person receives the right gift on Christmas morning.

By following these tips and getting started early, you'll be able to wrap your gifts efficiently and beautifully. Plus, you'll have more time to relax and enjoy the holiday season with your loved ones.

Attend a virtual holiday party

With the holiday season just around the corner, it's time to get into the festive spirit! One of the most enjoyable things to do the week before Christmas is to attend a virtual holiday party. While it may not be the same as an in-person celebration, a virtual party can still provide plenty of fun and excitement.

Here are some tips to help you plan the perfect virtual holiday party:

• Choose a theme: The theme of your holiday party can be anything from a winter wonderland to a holiday cocktail party. Choose something that everyone will enjoy and decorate accordingly.
• Send out invitations: Once you've decided on a theme, it's time to send out invitations. You can use an online platform such as Zoom or Google Meet to send out the invitations. Be sure to include the date, time, and theme of the party.
• Plan the activities: A virtual holiday party can be just as fun as an in-person one if you plan the right activities. Some ideas include a virtual gift exchange, holiday trivia, or a gingerbread house decorating contest.
• Dress up: Just because it's a virtual party doesn't mean you can't dress up. Encourage your guests to get into the festive spirit by dressing up in their holiday best.
• Serve holiday treats: No holiday party is complete without some festive treats. Encourage your guests to prepare their favorite holiday treat and share the recipe with everyone.

So, if you're looking for something fun and festive to do the week before Christmas, attending a virtual holiday party is the perfect option. With a little planning and creativity, you can still enjoy all of the holiday traditions from the comfort of your own home.

Frequently asked questions