The holiday season is a time of joy, wonder, and togetherness. December offers a unique opportunity to explore and celebrate the rich traditions of Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and other faiths and cultures. Whether it’s through the twinkling sights, the festive sounds, or the delicious flavors, children can experience the magic of the season in fun and meaningful ways.
Here’s a holiday bucket list designed to help kids (and their families) enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of this magical time while embracing the diversity of celebrations!
Sights to Behold
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Visit a Holiday Light Display
Take a stroll or drive through neighborhoods glowing with twinkling lights, or visit a professionally decorated venue like a botanical garden. These dazzling displays are sure to ignite a child’s imagination! -
Decorate a Tree or Menorah
Whether it’s trimming the Christmas tree with homemade ornaments or lighting colorful candles on a menorah, these moments create cherished family memories. -
Attend a Live Performance
Introduce your kids to the arts by attending holiday shows like The Nutcracker, a local Christmas play, or a Hanukkah storytelling event. -
Explore a Multicultural Holiday Market
Discover treasures like Kwanzaa crafts, Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins), and festive Christmas ornaments. These markets are wonderful for teaching children about different traditions. -
Create DIY Holiday Decor
Get crafty with kids! Make paper snowflakes, festive wreaths, or stars of David to brighten your home.
Sounds of the Season
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Listen to Holiday Music
Make a playlist featuring Christmas carols, Hanukkah songs, and tunes from other festive traditions. It’s the perfect background for baking cookies or decorating! -
Learn About Holiday Instruments
Try playing with dreidels, jingling bells, or maracas used during Las Posadas celebrations. Each instrument carries its own cultural story. -
Sing Along to Carols or Hanukkah Songs
Host a family karaoke night or sing-along session with holiday favorites. It’s a simple yet joyous way to bond. -
Attend a Holiday Parade
Watch as marching bands, floats, and performers bring the season to life. Parades often include a mix of holiday themes and are a feast for the eyes and ears! -
Storytelling Night
Gather around for cozy readings of holiday classics like The Night Before Christmas, The Polar Express, or inspiring Hanukkah tales of miracles and courage.
Flavors to Savor
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Bake Holiday Treats
Turn your kitchen into a wonderland by baking traditional treats like Christmas cookies, Hanukkah sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts), or a Kwanzaa-style sweet potato pie. -
Enjoy a Multicultural Feast
Introduce kids to a world of flavors by serving latkes, tamales, roast turkey, and gingerbread in one festive meal. It’s a delicious way to celebrate diversity! -
Set Up a Hot Cocoa and Cider Bar
Let the kids mix their own holiday drinks with toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon sticks, and peppermint. -
Taste Test Holiday Candies
Sample seasonal sweets, from classic candy canes to Hanukkah gelt and other treats unique to December holidays. -
Explore a Local Restaurant
Visit eateries offering special holiday menus inspired by global traditions—it’s an easy way to expose kids to new cultures.
Activities to Bring the Holiday Spirit
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Host a Cookie Decorating Contest
Turn your holiday baking into a friendly competition by decorating cookies with symbols from Christmas, Hanukkah, and beyond. -
Craft Holiday Cards
Create handmade cards to send warm wishes to friends, family, or even residents of a local nursing home. -
Volunteer as a Family
Spread the joy by participating in a toy drive, serving meals, or making care packages for those in need. -
Celebrate the First Day of Winter
Welcome the season with a nature walk, sledding adventure, or snowman-building contest! -
Create a Holiday Countdown
Make the wait for the big day special with an advent calendar, Hanukkah candles, or your own daily activity countdown.
A Season of Magic and Unity
This holiday bucket list is more than just a collection of activities; it’s a way to teach children about love, kindness, and cultural appreciation. By embracing the diverse traditions of December, you’re helping them see the beauty in the world and in each other.
Let the magic of the season light up their hearts and yours. Wishing you all the joy, peace, and wonder this holiday season brings!
