Christmas Eve Traditions – Everyday Reading

One of my most popular holiday posts is about Christmas Day traditions, since for some families it feels like a big letdown after the gifts are opened.

But what about Christmas Eve?

We have two major Christmas Eve traditions – both borrowed from my parents.

The first is going to a matinee at the movie theater on Christmas Eve. It helps break up a long day for kids and is a fun, relaxing event. Now that we live close to family, we invite all the cousins, grandparents, and aunts and uncles to join us!

The second is our shepherd’s meal which is by far my kids’ favorite Christmas tradition (pretty much every year, I ask what tradition they’re most looking forward to and this is always their number one response – I have a whole post about it here).

And I knew there had to be lots of other good ideas for Christmas Eve traditions so I asked on Instagram and I got a deluge of great suggestions!

If you’re looking for some Christmas Eve traditions, I hope you’ll find something that works for your family here!

20+ Christmas Eve Traditions

Wrapping
The person that mentioned this actually said “panic wrapping” which made me laugh out loud. I remember my mom staying up really late on a few Christmas Eves to wrap allllll the presents and that is not my idea of fun (it was not her idea of fun either). I love to wrap as the gifts show up, but some might like to wait until everything is there.

Coffee/Hot Chocolate
Grabbing a nice, cozy drink sounds like something everyone in my family would enjoy. And if you don’t want to go out, my sister swears by this homemade hot chocolate recipe.

Hike
If you live in a warmer climate or you happen to have unexpected good weather, this would be a great way to spend time together and pass the time. Nothing like getting some fresh air, beautiful views and a bit of exercise.

Ring bells for the Salvation Army
Bundle up and ring bells outside a local store on Christmas Eve. It’s a simple way to serve together and remind kids what the season is really about.

Stocking stuffer shopping
Make Christmas Eve your official stocking stuffer shopping day. A quick store run or local shop visit turns a last-minute task into a fun tradition.

Attend church
Many families attend a Christmas Eve church service as a peaceful pause in the holiday hustle and a meaningful way to reflect on the season.

Fancy dinner out or at home
Skip the big Christmas Day meal and make Christmas Eve dinner the special one -either by going out or dressing up at home with candles and a favorite meal.

Takeout at home so no one has to cook
This sounds incredibly appealing to everyone involved. No time prepping, no dishes and good food. Sign me up!

Get out some energy
If you have young kids, you know the energy that’s buzzing on Christmas Eve! I love the idea of going out and getting some of those wiggles out. Suggestions included tramp park, rock climbing gym, Top Golf, Children’s Museum and ice skating.

Acting out the nativity
I personally think this one is so much fun! Have kids (and willing adults!) dress up and act out the nativity story on Christmas Eve. It’s a simple, meaningful tradition that helps everyone slow down and focus on the story of Christmas.

Candlelit Christmas Story
Along the same vein as acting out the nativity is a Candlelit Christmas Story. It’s an interactive version of the biblical story of Christ’s birth. One follower said suggested this free printable and said

“It’s such a great way to feel the spirit on Christmas Eve – the candlelight makes it feel extra special and singing the songs along with it is so cool. I bought glass votives and then got a different color candle for each person in the story (blue Mary, green shepherds, etc.”

Singing carols together
There’s something so cozy and heart warming about singing Christmas carols together. Gather around the piano as someone plays or simply turn the song on your phone while you are gathered together and sing your hearts out.

Make and take treats to neighbors or local hospital and give to nurses
Spend part of Christmas Eve baking or assembling simple treats, then deliver them to neighbors or drop them off for nurses at a local hospital. It’s an easy, hands-on way to spread holiday cheer and gratitude.

Family/Friend party
Host a casual family get-together on Christmas Eve with good food, games, and plenty of time to be together. It’s a fun way to celebrate before the excitement of Christmas morning. Another follower said

“We host a big breakfast on Christmas Eve for family and friends who don’t have family in town! Almost everyone always has the morning free and available!”

I love this idea! For years we were the family who didn’t have any family in town and would have loved and would still love to be invited over for the morning!

Play games
We love a good game at our house so everyone would be thrilled with this idea! All of our favorites here. Someone also mentioned opening up a new family game to learn and enjoy together. Another suggestion was to play Christmas carol bingo so you get to listen to a lot of Christmas music before the season is done.

Santa comes to our house
Invite Santa to stop by your house on Christmas Eve – whether it’s a neighbor in costume or a special surprise for the kids. It adds a little extra magic and makes the night unforgettable.

See a movie
We go see a matinee every single Christmas Eve and I absolutely love this tradition! And for the last few years, our gift to our extended families is paying for anyone who wants to come with us!

Book Flood
You know I’m all about this idea. It’s an Icelandic tradition where you receive a bag of books, some chocolate and you read all day! Say no more.

Shepherd’s Meal
We’ve been doing this for many years now and my girls will always say it’s one of their favorite traditions we do. You can see all of the details here.

Open one present
Opening one present to kick off Christmas is a common tradition. It’s nice to have them be able to enjoy one single gift by itself before more are opened the next day.

Sleep in the same room
Why have the fun stop when it’s bedtime? Having a giant sleepover makes the magic continue.

Make a fun treat
Making a festive dessert/treat to top off the night, sounds just right. My very favorite Christmas treat are these Salted Caramel Christmas Crackers. Trust me, they are so easy and incredibly delicious.

Best Christmas Lights
Drive around the neighborhoods in your town or walk around yours and print off these cute “Best Christmas Light Award” tags to hand out if you feel so inclined. Or just enjoy the lights.

Open Up New Christmas Pajamas
I like my girls to get their Christmas jammies at the beginning of the season, but I know others like them to feel fresh and exciting the night before Christmas! Plus, they are in great shape still for all of the pictures.

Dance Party by the Christmas Tree
Turn on the poppiest of Christmas tunes, turn off all the lights except the Christmas tree and dance your heart out!

Read The Night Before Christmas
Gather everyone together to read The Night Before Christmas. It’s a simple, classic way to wind down the evening and set the mood for Christmas morning.

Family Variety Show
Let everyone show off a talent, skit, song, or joke in a low-pressure family variety show. It’s usually a little chaotic, very entertaining, and always memorable.

Make Your Own Ornament
Set out simple supplies and let everyone create an ornament for the tree. It’s a fun activity now and a keepsake you’ll enjoy pulling out year after year.

Manicures and Pedicures
Turn Christmas Eve into a mini spa night with at-home manicures and pedicures. It’s relaxing, feels a little fancy, and gives everyone a chance to slow down together.

Make Cookies for Santa
Bake a batch of cookies to leave out for Santa before bedtime. It’s a classic tradition that adds a little magic to the night. My favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe is right here if you need some inspiration!

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