19 Festive and Fun Christmas Activities for Kids

The holidays are a beautiful time of year, but if we’re honest, they can also feel overwhelming. Between shopping, decorating, parties, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to rush through December without truly enjoying it.

But mama, we only get so many Christmases with our kids while they’re little. Let’s not let the busyness rob us of the joy. Instead, we can be intentional to slow down, savor the season, and point our children’s hearts back to the true reason we celebrate—Jesus.

Here are 19 simple and festive Christmas activities for kids that will fill your home with laughter, memories, and Christ-centered joy.

Keep It Simple (and Meaningful)

When it comes to Christmas activities, it doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfect. The most meaningful moments usually come from the little things—baking cookies together, driving around to look at Christmas lights, or reading the Christmas story by the tree.

As you go through this list, pick a few activities that fit your family, and don’t be afraid to keep them simple. What matters most is that you’re creating space to enjoy your kids and celebrate the gift of Christ together.

19 Christmas Activities for Kids

Here are 19 fun holiday activities you can do with your kids that are simple but create lifelong memories for kids and parents!

1. Cut paper snowflakes.

Hang them in the windows as a cheerful (and free!) decoration.

2. Decorate sugar cookies

Bake (or buy) cookies and let your kids go wild with icing and sprinkles. Deliver extras to neighbors as a sweet act of kindness.

3. Go ice skating.

Burn off some holiday energy at a rink, or just slip on socks and “skate” across the kitchen floor if you don’t have ice nearby.

4. Make homemade ornaments.

Craft ornaments that tell your family’s story—salt dough, handprints, or Scripture-themed decorations.

5. Have a Christmas movie marathon.

Snuggle up with cocoa and watch family favorites. End the night with The Nativity Story to keep Christ at the center.

6. Build a snowman (or snowman craft).

If you don’t have snow, try cotton ball snowmen or paper ones.

7. Make a gingerbread house.

Classic and creative fun! Kits are an easy shortcut.

8. Read Christmas books together.

Mix in fun stories with Christ-centered ones like The Legend of the Candy Cane or God Gave Us Christmas.

9. Countdown with an Advent calendar.

Choose one that includes daily Scripture readings or simple acts of kindness.

10. Make Christmas cards.

Send homemade cards to family, friends, or even missionaries your church supports

11. Decorate the Christmas tree as a family.

Share stories behind each ornament as you hang them.

12. Listen to Christmas music.

Create a family playlist with both fun carols and Christ-centered hymns.

13. Look at Christmas lights.

Drive through neighborhoods or attend a local festival. Bring hot chocolate for the ride.

14. Set up a hot chocolate bar.

Add whipped cream, peppermint, and sprinkles for a cozy treat.

15. Go caroling.

Sing to neighbors or bring cheer to a nursing home or shut-in from your church.

16. Attend a Christmas concert or program.

Support your community or church events and soak in the music.

17. Have a sleepover by the Christmas tree.

Roll out sleeping bags and fall asleep under the twinkling lights.

18. Make personalized gifts.

Encourage kids to give handmade gifts—drawings, crafts, or baked goods—to show love.

19. Create salt dough ornaments.

A simple, classic craft that doubles as a keepsake.

Cherishing the Season

At the heart of it all, Christmas isn’t about the gifts, the food, or the picture-perfect Instagram moments. It’s about celebrating Emmanuel—God with us.

Take time this year to laugh, play, and make memories with your kids, but also point their hearts back to Jesus. Read the Christmas story from Luke 2, pray together, and remind them that the greatest gift we’ll ever receive is the Savior who came for us.

Even in the busiest season, may your home be filled with peace, joy, and the love of Christ.