16 Magical Christmas Traditions for the Whole Family

If you're in the habit of outfitting your kids in new Christmas pajamas each year, try this fun new spin on your annual tradition. Wrap up the pajamas as a gift and ask your neighbor to ding dong ditch your house, leaving the gift (from Santa's elves) outside your front door. Include a gift message from Santa's elves wishing them a Merry Christmas. Just imagine their surprise!
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Parents, before you turn in for the night on Christmas Eve, wrap the doorways and entrances to your Christmas tree with wrapping paper. Allow your kids to burst through the paper to discover what Santa's left for them!
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Research your family's heritage and make cultural celebration part of your family's Christmas traditions. Be sure to check out these 13 unique holiday traditions from around the world.
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Enjoy your Christmas tree while it lasts by camping out next to it, cozy and warm in your sleeping bags.
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While decorating the family Christmas tree is surely a time-honored tradition, getting the kids their very own tree can be great fun. Allow them to decorate it any way they wish and encourage them to make their very own ornaments. You can even put the tree somewhere special, like their bedroom!
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Savor the holiday by purchasing one new Christmas book each year. Before long, you'll have a beautiful collection to share for generations.
Get The Sweet Smell of Christmas (my childhood favorite) from Amazon, $8.99

Snuggle up and enjoy one of 15 beloved holiday movies as a family!
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Take a stroll through your neighborhood to admire the beautiful Christmas light displays in your area. If you find a particular house that brings you joy, have your kids write a simple thank you letter to the homeowner!
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The years pass by so quickly. If your family is anything like mine, getting a family picture taken is one of those things we intend to do but never actually get around to doing. Whether you head off to a portrait studio or simply gather together in the family room, take at least one good picture of the family each year. You'll be glad you did!
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Even if you only go once this season, gather up your family and engage in a winter activity. Whether it’s ice skating, sledding, taking in a Christmas production, or attending a Christmas craft fair while sipping hot chocolate, enjoy it together!
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Whether your family attends church every Sunday or once a year at Christmas, celebrating the reason for the season feels good.
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Turn holiday shopping into family time by carefully selecting one special new ornament each year to add to your Christmas tree.
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Calling all chefs! Roll up your sleeves and get cooking as a family to celebrate this perfect Christmas morning.
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No Christmas would be complete without a visit to the big guy!
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Whether you're baking cookies for Santa, pies for Christmas day, or sweet treats to give friends and family, baking is a surefire way to get into the Christmas spirit.
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...or train or sleigh! Whatever you decide to make, make it together as a family.
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