Top 40 Family Christmas Outings: Making Memories this Holiday Season
Christmas is a time for family, and what better way to celebrate than with fun-filled outings that create lasting memories? This list covers a range of activities, from classic holiday events to unique experiences, ensuring something for every family. Prepare for festive cheer and unforgettable moments with our top 40 family Christmas outings!
Classic Christmas Experiences:
- Ice Skating: Glide across the ice to the sounds of holiday music. Many cities offer outdoor rinks with festive decorations.
- Christmas Light Displays: Drive or walk through dazzling light displays, a quintessential Christmas experience. Look for local neighborhood displays or larger, professionally designed shows.
- Visit Santa Claus: Capture that magical moment with a photo and a visit to the jolly man himself. Check local malls, zoos, and community centers for appearances.
- Christmas Tree Farm Visit: Choose and cut your own Christmas tree, a fun and memorable family tradition.
- Holiday Train Rides: Enjoy a scenic train ride decorated for the holidays. Many offer hot cocoa and treats.
- Holiday Concerts & Performances: Attend a Christmas concert, play, or ballet for a dose of festive entertainment. Check local theaters and venues for schedules.
- Christmas Markets: Explore charming Christmas markets filled with handcrafted gifts, festive food, and holiday cheer.
- Gingerbread House Competition: Get creative and bake or assemble a gingerbread house, culminating in a family competition.
Unique & Adventurous Family Christmas Outings:
- Holiday-Themed Escape Room: Test your family's problem-solving skills in a festive escape room challenge.
- Christmas-Themed Scavenger Hunt: Create your own scavenger hunt with clues leading to holiday treats or gifts.
- Volunteer at a Charity: Give back to the community by volunteering at a soup kitchen or toy drive.
- Holiday Baking Class: Learn to bake festive treats together in a fun and interactive class.
- Attend a Holiday Craft Fair: Find unique and handmade gifts while supporting local artisans.
- Go Caroling: Spread holiday cheer by caroling in your neighborhood or at a local event.
- Attend a Festive Cooking Class: Learn to prepare traditional Christmas dishes from around the world.
- Visit a Winter Wonderland: Experience the magic of a winter wonderland with snow activities like sledding and building snowmen.
Indoor Activities for Inclement Weather:
- Visit a Museum Exhibit: Many museums offer special holiday exhibits and events.
- Attend a Holiday Movie Marathon: Cozy up at home or at a theater for a classic Christmas movie marathon.
- Play Board Games: Spend quality time together playing festive board games.
- Build a Fort: Create a cozy fort and enjoy hot cocoa and holiday stories.
- Have a Themed Movie Night: Pick a Christmas movie and make it a themed night with matching snacks and decorations.
- Create Holiday Crafts: Engage in creative activities like making ornaments, cards, or decorations.
Outings Focusing on Nature & the Outdoors:
- Winter Hiking: Explore scenic trails, taking in the beauty of a winter landscape.
- Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing: Enjoy winter sports in a picturesque setting.
- Visit a Wildlife Refuge: Observe winter wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Stargazing: On a clear night, enjoy the beauty of the winter night sky.
Food & Drink Focused Christmas Fun:
- Hot Chocolate Crawl: Visit different cafes and try various hot chocolate flavors.
- Holiday Baking Competition: Get creative in the kitchen and have a family baking competition.
- Christmas Cookie Decorating: Decorate Christmas cookies with festive sprinkles and icing.
- Festive Brunch or Dinner: Enjoy a special Christmas brunch or dinner at a restaurant.
Experiences that Offer Something for Everyone:
- Drive around and look at Christmas lights: A classic and simple way to enjoy the holiday season.
- Attend a Holiday Parade: Watch a festive parade with floats, music, and characters.
- Visit a historical Christmas event: Immerse yourselves in history with a historical reenactment or tour.
- Attend a Christmas Festival: Enjoy diverse attractions, food, and entertainment at a Christmas festival.
- Go ice fishing (where appropriate): A unique and adventurous activity for families who enjoy winter outdoor sports.
- Visit a local farm or orchard: Many farms offer holiday-themed activities and produce.
- Attend a local theatre production: Support your local community while enjoying a holiday performance.
- Have a family game night: Classic board games or video games provide excellent family bonding time.
- Visit a planetarium: Many planetariums offer special holiday shows and exhibits.
- Attend a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day service: Connect with your faith and the community spirit of the holiday.
Remember to check local listings and book tickets in advance for popular events. This comprehensive list provides a fantastic starting point for planning memorable family Christmas outings! Happy Holidays!