27 Exciting Things to Do on Christmas Day in 2024

We get it — you need fun and festive things to do on Christmas Day. After all, once you open the presents how else are you supposed to fill your day? Have you been wondering what you can do on Christmas Day? And how to enjoy Christmas as an adult? The holidays change as you age, and it’s normal to be stuck with nothing to do. Use this guide to help you make the most of the holiday season. 

We have 27 of the best Christmas activities for adults and kids (with some out-of-the-box ideas to make the day extra fun!). Eat all the Christmas party food, dance around the tree and truly enjoy this Christmas season!

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• Unique and Unusual Things to do on Christmas Day
• How to Enjoy Christmas as an Adult?
• How to Make Christmas Day Fun for Kids

Unique and Unusual Things to do on Christmas Day

It’s tough to know how to make Christmas Day fun when you’ve done it all before. Use these unique and unusual things to do at Christmas for adults (and kiddos) to switch up your holiday. 

1. Take an Art Class

If you're looking for unique things to do on Christmas Day, why not take an art class near you? Whether online or in-person, spending time being creative can bring joy and relaxation. You can: 

• paint winter landscapes, 
• sketch Christmas scenes, 
• practice with watercolor,
• make a candle,
• or even try pottery. 

These Christmas painting ideas are a fantastic way to break from traditional holiday activities while still getting into the festive spirit. Plus, you’ll have something creative to show for your holiday celebration.

2. Have a Christmas-themed Puzzle Marathon

Looking for cozy things to do on Christmas Day? Try a Christmas-themed puzzle marathon. Choose puzzles with winter landscapes, Santa scenes or other festive images. Set up a puzzle station, and challenge yourself or your family to complete as many puzzles as possible throughout the day. This is a great way to relax, bond and enjoy the holiday at a slower pace. Plus, completing a puzzle can be surprisingly satisfying.

3. Bake Off

Turn your kitchen into a competitive yet festive space by hosting a Christmas bake-off. Among the fun things to do on Christmas Day, this is perfect for those who love to cook and enjoy a little friendly competition. Invite family members or friends to bake their best Christmas cookies, pies or cakes. Then, judge based on creativity, taste, presentation and festivities. It’s a sweet way to enjoy the day, and everyone gets to indulge afterward.

4. Stargaze

One of the more unusual things to do on Christmas Day is to stargaze. Bundle up in warm blankets, grab a hot drink and head outside to watch the stars on this magical night. The winter sky is often clearer, offering perfect stargazing conditions. You might even see a Christmas comet or twinkling constellations that add to the holiday wonder. It’s a peaceful and enchanting way to connect with nature during the festivities.

5. Go on a Run

If you need more active things to do on Christmas Day, why not go for a run? Whether it's a quick jog around your neighborhood or participating in a Christmas-themed charity race, it’s a great way to start your day feeling energized and healthy. Don your favorite holiday gear, like a Santa hat or festive leggings and embrace the crisp winter air. It’s an excellent way to balance out all the holiday treats, too.

6. Volunteer at a Shelter

Volunteering at a local shelter is one of the most heartwarming things to do on Christmas Day. It’s a wonderful way to spread kindness and give back to the community. Help serve meals, assist with donations or just spend time talking to those in need. You’ll not only make someone’s day brighter but also experience the true spirit of Christmas. This is a meaningful and impactful way to spend the holiday, fostering connection and gratitude.

7. Take Family Photos

Capture the joy of the season by scheduling family photos as one of the things to do on Christmas Day. Whether you hire a professional photographer or set up your own camera, taking family pictures on Christmas creates lasting memories.

Coordinate festive outfits, choose a scenic backdrop and have fun posing with holiday props like Santa hats or candy canes. It’s a perfect way to document the special moments and make Christmas Day even more memorable. It’s also nice to take photos while everyone is gathered together. 

8. Host a Potluck Dinner

If you're seeking communal things to do on Christmas Day, consider hosting a potluck dinner. Invite friends or neighbors to bring a favorite dish, and enjoy a relaxed, shared meal. This is a great way to ease the stress of cooking everything yourself and ensures a variety of delicious holiday treats. It’s also a fantastic way to foster a sense of community, especially if you’re celebrating with people who don’t have a nearby family.

9. Take a Winter Hike

Taking a winter hike is one of the refreshing things to do on Christmas Day. Find a nearby trail and enjoy the beauty of the snowy landscape. The crisp air, serene surroundings and scenic views can offer a peaceful respite from holiday chaos. Whether you're walking through a forest or exploring a mountain, it’s a great way to feel connected to the natural world during this festive season, making for a memorable Christmas activity.

How to Enjoy Christmas as an Adult?

These activities and things to do at Christmas for adults will help you get the most out of the season. It’s hard to find the magic of Christmas once you’ve grown up, but these activities can help you feel festive again. 

10. Decorate

If you’re wondering about fun things to do on Christmas Day as an adult, start with decorating. Whether you’ve been busy leading up to the holiday or just love adding finishing touches, there’s no better time to beautify your home. String up fairy lights, set out garlands or even create DIY ornaments for your tree. Decorating adds instant holiday cheer and makes your space feel festive, giving you that warm, cozy feeling Christmas is all about.

11. Create a Christmas Cocktail

One of the more sophisticated things to do on Christmas Day is creating a Christmas cocktail. Get creative with festive ingredients like cranberries, cinnamon or peppermint and craft a signature holiday drink. You can experiment with classic favorites like eggnog or mulled wine or invent something entirely new. This is a fun and delicious way to celebrate with friends or family, adding an extra festive touch to your Christmas dinner or party.

12. Play Festive Music

Among the most enjoyable things to do on Christmas Day is to play festive music. Whether you opt for classic carols or modern holiday tunes, music instantly adds warmth and energy to the day. Create a Christmas playlist filled with your favorite songs, and let it play in the background while you cook, open presents or relax with loved ones. Music sets the mood for a joyful, celebratory Christmas experience that everyone can enjoy.

13. Attend Holiday Events

If you're looking for exciting things to do on Christmas Day, consider attending a holiday event. Check out local Christmas markets, light displays or concerts that are happening nearby. Many towns have special events open on Christmas Day that add to the festive spirit. Whether you enjoy ice skating, live music or just walking through beautifully decorated streets, it’s a great way to soak up holiday cheer while enjoying your community.

14. Host a Secret Santa Gift Exchange

This is a top group activity for Christmas Day. Host a Secret Santa gift exchange. Gather a group of friends or family members and have everyone draw names in advance to surprise one another with thoughtful presents. Set a price limit, exchange stories about the gifts and enjoy the laughter and surprises that come with giving. It’s a great way to focus on the joy of giving and adds excitement to your holiday gathering.

15. Plan a DIY Ornament Crafting Session

For a creative twist on things to do on Christmas Day, plan a DIY ornament crafting session. Gather supplies like glitter, paint, felt or clay, and make your own unique ornaments. This activity is perfect for spending time with family or friends while also making memories through your creations. You can personalize your Christmas tree with handmade decorations or even give them as gifts. It’s an artistic, festive way to spend the holiday.

16. Get New Christmas Pajamas

If you’re seeking cozy things to do on Christmas Day, treat yourself to a new set of Christmas pajamas. Whether it’s a classic flannel set or something fun and quirky, there’s nothing like slipping into festive sleepwear to make the day extra special. Take photos, lounge by the fireplace or have a movie marathon in your new PJs. It’s a simple but delightful way to add some extra holiday magic and comfort to your Christmas celebration.

17. Visit a Christmas Market

Visiting a Christmas market is one of the most festive things to do on Christmas Day. Wander through rows of stalls offering handmade gifts, holiday treats and unique crafts. Sip on mulled wine or hot chocolate as you browse, and enjoy the live music or festive lights that make the experience truly magical. A Christmas market visit is a perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season, discover new traditions and shop for last-minute gifts.

18. Participate in Angel Tree Lists

Looking for what to do on Christmas Day with no family around? Participate in an Angel Tree program. These programs allow you to donate gifts to children in need, helping to ensure they have a special Christmas. You can shop for toys, clothes or school supplies, and drop them off or send them to the organization hosting the list. It’s a wonderful way to spread joy and make a difference during the holidays, embodying the true spirit of giving.

How to Make Christmas Day Fun for Kids

According to YouGov, “practically all (99%) kids who celebrate Christmas say that they enjoy it.” This is mostly thanks to the hard work that the family puts in to make sure children have a jolly, festive time. 

19. Play Christmas Games

Playing Christmas games is one of the most entertaining things to do on Christmas Day for kids. You can set up a variety of activities like Pin the Nose on Rudolph, a holiday trivia game or even a Christmas charades session. The games can be tailored to different age groups and are a great way to keep kids engaged and excited throughout the day. Adding small prizes for the winners makes it even more fun.

20. Show Them Santa Visited

One of the most magical things to do on Christmas Day for kids is to show them that Santa has visited. Leave out a half-eaten cookie and an empty glass of milk by the fireplace, scatter some reindeer “tracks” around and place their gifts under the tree. Seeing the evidence that Santa stopped by will fill them with excitement and wonder. It’s a heartwarming tradition that keeps the magic of Christmas alive for little ones.

21. Have a Christmas Scavenger Hunt

A Christmas scavenger hunt is one of the most fun things to do on Christmas Day for kids. Create a list of holiday-themed items for them to find around the house, like candy canes, ornaments or small wrapped gifts. You can hide clues leading to the next item or location to keep the excitement going. This engaging activity not only keeps them entertained but also adds an element of adventure to their holiday celebration.

22. Build a Gingerbread House

Building a gingerbread house is one of the most creative things to do on Christmas Day for kids. Gather a gingerbread kit or bake the pieces yourself, then let the kids decorate the house with colorful candies, icing and sprinkles. This hands-on activity allows them to express their creativity while enjoying the festive season. You can even turn it into a friendly competition to see who can build the best gingerbread house.

23. Make Reindeer Food

Looking for adorable things to do on Christmas Day? Help kids make reindeer food! This simple and fun activity involves mixing oats with glitter or colored sugar to sprinkle on the lawn, creating a “treat” for Santa’s reindeer. As the kids scatter the mixture outside, it adds a magical element to their holiday experience, allowing them to feel like they’re helping take care of Santa’s sleigh team.

24. Do a Christmas Craft

Doing a Christmas craft is one of the best things to do on Christmas Day for kids. Set up a crafting station with supplies like construction paper, glue, glitter and markers, and let their imaginations run wild. Whether they’re making paper snowflakes, decorating holiday cards or creating ornaments, this activity keeps little hands busy while adding a creative touch to the day. Plus, they can proudly display their crafts as part of the holiday decor.

25. Go Sledding (If Possible)

If there’s snow outside, sledding is one of the most exhilarating things to do on Christmas Day for kids. Bundle them up in warm clothes, grab a sled and head to the nearest hill for an afternoon of winter fun. Sledding brings excitement and laughter as they glide down snowy slopes, making the day extra special. Even if there’s no snow, you can still find ways to enjoy outdoor winter activities like ice skating or a chilly nature walk.

26. Christmas Cookies

Baking Christmas cookies is one of the sweetest things to do on Christmas Day for kids. Let them choose cookie cutters in holiday shapes like snowflakes, trees and stars, then help them roll out the dough and decorate with colorful icing and sprinkles. It’s a delicious way to spend time together, and they’ll love showing off their cookie creations. Plus, they can enjoy their tasty treats while watching a Christmas movie later in the day.

27. Watch a Christmas Movie

Ending the day with a holiday movie marathon is one of the most relaxing things to do on Christmas Day for kids. Let them pick their favorite Christmas films, whether it’s Home Alone, The Polar Express, The Grinch, Elf, A Christmas Carol, Klaus or A Charlie Brown Christmas, create a cozy movie-watching environment with blankets and popcorn. Watching Christmas movies together helps wind down the excitement while keeping the holiday spirit alive through beloved stories and characters.

Spend the Christmas season participating in these exciting activities and you’ll have a wonderful time. Kids, adults and whole families can benefit from switching the season up and discovering new things to do.

For even more fun Christmas ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!