Can you already feel the jingle bells ringing and the twinkle lights sparkling? It’s that magical time of year when all you want to do is sprinkle everything in glitter and fill your home with cozy, Christmas cheer.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably already started daydreaming about all the festive fun you’re going to have this holiday season.
And what better way to capture all that holiday spirit than with the ultimate Christmas bucket list?
But hey, I know how busy this time of year can be with all the shopping, parties, and family get-togethers. So I’m here to help you out with a holly-jolly list of 59+ super-fun Christmas bucket list ideas that’ll make your season unforgettable.
The Ultimate Xmas Bucket List
From festive outings to cozy nights in, we’ve got everything covered. So grab your favorite holiday drink (peppermint mocha, anyone?), settle in by the fire, and get ready to make your Christmas magical!
1. Bake Christmas Cookies with a Twist
You can never go wrong with Christmas cookies, but why not kick it up a notch this year? Try new recipes or add some fun decorations.
Make it a challenge with friends or family to see who can create the most unique (or hilarious!) cookie designs. Don’t forget the sprinkles – it’s Christmas, after all!
Christmas Cookie Cutters
2. Have a Festive Pajama Party
Who says pajama parties are just for kids? Slip into your coziest Christmas-themed PJs, grab some fuzzy socks, and invite your besties over for a night of laughter, movies, and, of course, holiday treats.
It’s the perfect excuse to snuggle up and relax amidst all the holiday hustle.
3. DIY Christmas Ornaments
Get crafty with some homemade Christmas ornaments. Whether it’s simple painted baubles or more elaborate creations like clay or salt dough ornaments, it’s a great way to add a personal touch to your tree.
Plus, it’s a fun activity to do with kids, friends, or even on your own while you binge-watch Christmas movies.
4. Go Ice Skating
Even if you’re not the most graceful on the ice, there’s something so magical about gliding (or wobbling) across a rink with holiday music playing in the background.
Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate afterward, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a Christmas movie.
5. Create a Christmas Playlist
Sure, we all love the classics, but why not mix things up a bit this year?
Put together a playlist of your favorite Christmas songs, including some lesser-known gems, and have it ready for all your holiday festivities. You’ll be the DJ of Christmas cheer!
Also Read: The 65 Best Christmas Songs Of All Time
6. Visit a Christmas Market
If there’s one thing that screams “holiday magic,” it’s a Christmas market. The twinkling lights, the scent of hot cocoa and cinnamon, and the charming stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to festive snacks – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
Plus, it’s the perfect place to find unique presents for loved ones!
7. Have a Christmas Photo Shoot
Put on your holiday best or some goofy Christmas sweaters and have a fun photo session. Whether it’s for your family Christmas card or just for memories, you’ll love looking back at the festive fun.
Bonus points if you include your pets!
8. Host a Gingerbread House Competition
Time to get competitive! Invite friends or family over for a gingerbread house-building showdown.
You can go classic with candy canes and gumdrops, or get creative with unique themes and designs. And if it all falls apart? Well, that’s half the fun!
BIG Gingerbread House kit
9. Watch Christmas Lights in Your Neighborhood
Hop in the car, turn up the Christmas tunes, and drive around your neighborhood to check out all the twinkling lights.
Some neighborhoods really go all out, and it’s such a fun way to spend an evening. Don’t forget to pack some hot cocoa for the ride!
10. Wrap Gifts with Style
Gift wrapping doesn’t have to be a chore. Turn it into a creative project! Try using kraft paper with twine and sprigs of greenery for a rustic look or go bold with glittery bows and shiny paper.
Throw on a Christmas movie or some festive music while you wrap, and you’ll be done in no time.
Also Read: 13 Unique Gift Wrapping Ideas to Make Your Presents Shine
11. Decorate a Christmas Tree with a Theme
Instead of your usual decorations, try picking a theme for your Christmas tree this year. It could be anything from “Winter Wonderland” to “Candy Cane Dreams” or even a more specific color palette like all-white or red-and-gold.
The possibilities are endless, and it adds an extra bit of fun to tree decorating.
12. Make Hot Chocolate Bombs
These little delights are taking the world by storm, and for good reason. Make your own hot chocolate bombs at home for a fun holiday treat.
Watching them melt into delicious hot chocolate is almost as satisfying as drinking it!
13. Go on a Holiday Movie Marathon
From the heartwarming classics to cheesy modern hits, Christmas movies are an absolute must. Pick a day, grab your favorite snacks, and settle in for a cozy marathon.
Have a lineup ready that includes all your faves – “Elf,” “Home Alone,” and “The Holiday” are great starters!
Also Read: The Best Movies On Disney Plus To Countdown Christmas
14. Send Christmas Cards to Loved Ones
In a world of digital everything, there’s something so special about receiving a handwritten Christmas card.
Take some time to write out personalized messages to friends and family, and pop them in the mail. Bonus points for festive stamps and stickers!
Also Read: 150 Heartfelt Greetings And Wishes To Write In A Christmas Card
15. Host a Secret Santa Exchange
There’s nothing like the thrill of a Secret Santa gift exchange. Set a budget, draw names, and see what thoughtful (or funny!) gifts your friends and family come up with.
It’s a great way to add some mystery and excitement to your holiday festivities.
Also Read: The Ultimate Guide To Hilarious White Elephant Gift Ideas
16. Make Your Own Christmas Candles
Bring the scents of Christmas into your home by making your own holiday-scented candles. Think cinnamon, pine, and vanilla – it’ll make your space feel extra cozy. Plus, they make perfect homemade gifts!
Also Read: How To Make Your Home Smell Like Christmas
17. Donate to a Local Charity
Christmas is all about giving, and one of the best ways to spread holiday cheer is by giving back. Whether it’s donating toys, food, or your time, finding a way to help those in need is one of the most rewarding items on your Christmas bucket list.
18. Attend a Christmas Parade
There’s something magical about watching a parade of floats decked out in twinkling lights, with marching bands playing Christmas tunes. Bundle up, grab some hot cocoa, and enjoy the show!
19. Build a Snowman
If you’re lucky enough to have a white Christmas, building a snowman is a must. Go all out with a carrot nose, button eyes, and even a scarf and hat for the full Frosty experience.
20. Have a Christmas Scavenger Hunt
Make the holiday season more exciting with a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt. Hide festive items around your house or yard, and give clues to find them. This is especially fun for kids (and kids at heart)!
21. Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen
Give back to your community by spending a few hours helping out at a local soup kitchen or food bank. It’s a heartwarming way to spread the holiday spirit.
22. Try a New Holiday Recipe
Break out of your usual holiday cooking routine and try a brand-new festive recipe. Whether it’s a dessert, main dish, or snack, experimenting with new flavors is always a treat.
Also Read: 12 Best Christmas Cookbooks, According To Amazon Reviews
23. Make a Christmas Countdown Calendar
DIY your own advent or countdown calendar with treats, small gifts, or fun activities for each day leading up to Christmas. It’s a great way to build excitement as the big day approaches.
Also read: The Best Advent Calendar Fillers For Beauty Lovers
24. Go Sledding
If snow is in your area, grab a sled (or anything that slides!) and hit the hills for some fun. There’s no age limit on sledding – it’s a classic Christmas bucket list activity for everyone!
25. Host an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party
Time to dig out the tackiest, most over-the-top Christmas sweaters you can find and host a party where everyone competes for the title of “Ugliest Sweater.” It’s all about the festive laughs!
26. Make a Festive Breakfast
Start Christmas morning with a breakfast that’s as festive as the day itself! Think pancakes shaped like reindeer, waffles dusted with powdered sugar “snow,” or hot chocolate with whipped cream and sprinkles.
27. Visit a Christmas Tree Farm
Pick out the perfect Christmas tree at a local farm. Whether you cut it down yourself or choose one that’s ready to go, the experience of wandering through rows of pine trees is pure holiday magic.
28. Sing Christmas Karaoke
Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or not, Christmas karaoke is a blast. Gather friends or family, pick out your favorite Christmas tunes, and sing your heart out. Bonus points if you do it in festive attire!
29. Send a Care Package to a Soldier
Brighten someone’s holiday season by sending a care package to a soldier stationed away from home. Include letters, snacks, and little gifts that remind them of the festive season.
30. Take a Family Christmas Photo
Coordinate matching outfits or go full-on Christmas crazy with ugly sweaters and Santa hats for your annual family Christmas photo. It’s a fun tradition and makes for a perfect keepsake.
31. Make a Holiday Wreath
Get crafty and create your own Christmas wreath using greenery, pinecones, ribbons, and whatever else inspires you. Hang it on your door to welcome guests with holiday cheer.
32. Visit Santa
Even if you don’t have little ones, visiting Santa at your local mall or holiday event can be a fun and nostalgic activity. Plus, you can get a cute (or hilarious) photo to remember it by!
33. Host a Christmas Cookie Exchange
Invite friends or family over for a Christmas cookie exchange. Everyone bakes a batch (or two) of their favorite holiday cookies, and then you swap. You’ll end up with a delightful variety of treats to enjoy all season long!
34. Read Christmas Books by the Fire
Gather your favorite Christmas books – from classics like The Night Before Christmas to more modern reads – and cozy up by the fire for some festive storytelling.
The Night Before Christmas Hardcover: The Classic Edition
35. Make Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is an easy-to-make holiday treat that’s always a hit. With layers of chocolate and crushed candy canes, it’s the perfect combination of sweet and minty.
36. Attend a Christmas Eve Church Service
For many, Christmas Eve wouldn’t be complete without attending a special church service. The candlelight, music, and message of peace and joy make it a meaningful tradition.
37. Donate Toys to a Local Toy Drive
Spread holiday cheer by donating new toys to a local toy drive. It’s a simple way to make Christmas a little brighter for children in need.
38. String Popcorn Garland for the Tree
For a classic, old-fashioned touch, try stringing popcorn garland for your Christmas tree. It’s a fun, relaxing activity and adds a bit of vintage charm to your holiday decor.
39. Go on a Sleigh Ride
If you have the chance to take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, do it! There’s nothing quite as magical as riding through a snowy landscape while bundled up in blankets and listening to sleigh bells ring.
40. Write Letters to Santa
Who says you’re too old to write to Santa? Grab some festive stationery and send a fun or heartfelt letter to the North Pole. It’s a great way to tap into your inner child’s Christmas spirit.
41. Make Snow Angels
If there’s snow on the ground, take a few moments to lie down and make snow angels. It’s a simple and playful way to enjoy the magic of winter.
42. Have a Hot Chocolate Bar
Set up a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings: marshmallows, whipped cream, peppermint sticks, and more. It’s a fun way to enjoy this holiday staple, and everyone can customize their own drink.
Hot Cocoa Bar Wood Station Organizer
43. Watch a Live Christmas Performance
Whether it’s The Nutcracker, a Christmas concert, or a holiday play, catching a live Christmas performance can be a fun and festive way to celebrate the season.
44. Send Thank You Notes
After all the gifts have been unwrapped, take the time to send personalized thank you notes to those who made your Christmas special. It’s a thoughtful gesture that spreads even more holiday cheer.
45. Make a Christmas Eve Box
Fill a box with goodies to open on Christmas Eve – think cozy pajamas, a holiday movie, snacks, and maybe even a new Christmas book. It’s the perfect way to wind down before the big day.
46. Donate to an Animal Shelter
Spread some love to furry friends by donating supplies, toys, or food to your local animal shelter. You can even volunteer to walk dogs or spend time with the animals during the holiday season.
47. Wear a Santa Hat Everywhere
Make it your personal mission to wear a Santa hat every day of December (or at least on the weekends!). It’s a fun and simple way to spread some holiday joy to everyone you meet.
48. Have a Snowball Fight
If snow’s on the ground, gather your friends or family for an epic snowball fight. It’s one of those simple pleasures that never gets old, no matter your age.
49. Host a White Elephant Gift Exchange
White Elephant gift exchanges are always full of surprises. Set a low budget, choose some funny or quirky gifts, and watch as everyone tries to “steal” the best one.
50. Make a Christmas Tree Out of Books
If you’re a book lover, this one’s for you. Stack your books in the shape of a Christmas tree and decorate it with lights for a unique, literary twist on traditional decor.
51. Build a Christmas Village
Set up a miniature Christmas village in your home. Whether you go for a traditional ceramic village or DIY your own, it’s a charming way to add a touch of Christmas magic to your decor.
52. Participate in a Christmas 5K
Many communities hold holiday-themed 5Ks, often for charity. Whether you walk, jog, or run, it’s a fun way to stay active and support a good cause during the holiday season.
53. Create a Holiday Time Capsule
Gather some mementos from the holiday season – a family photo, a favorite recipe, small trinkets – and seal them in a time capsule to open next Christmas. It’s a fun way to look back on your holiday memories year after year.
Time Capsule
54. Watch a Christmas Light Show
Many neighborhoods or cities put on synchronized Christmas light shows set to music. It’s mesmerizing to watch and a perfect evening outing with family or friends.
55. Visit a Local Nativity Scene
Many churches or community centers set up beautiful nativity scenes around Christmas. Visiting one is a simple way to reflect on the holiday’s deeper meaning.
56. Have a Christmas-Themed Picnic
If you live somewhere warm, pack a picnic full of Christmas treats and head outside for a festive lunch. If it’s chilly, throw on some blankets and enjoy a cozy outdoor meal under the stars.
57. Host a Festive Fondue Night
Bring out the fondue pot and gather your loved ones for a holiday-themed fondue night. Whether you’re melting cheese for savory treats or chocolate for dessert, it’s a delicious and interactive way to celebrate.
58. Write Your Own Christmas Story
Feeling creative? Write your own Christmas story – it can be heartwarming, funny, or even a little silly. You could even turn it into a new tradition by reading it aloud on Christmas Eve.
59. Visit a Winter Wonderland Park
Some parks transform into Winter Wonderlands during the holiday season, complete with lights, rides, and festive activities. Find one near you and make a day of it with family or friends.
With these 59+ Christmas bucket list ideas, you’ll be in full festive mode all season long!
And there you have it – a mix of traditional favorites and some creative new ideas to make this Christmas your merriest one yet. So get out there, make some memories, and don’t forget to add your own personal flair to your holiday season. Merry Christmas!
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