New Traditions to Start With Your Family This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a magical time, full of twinkling lights, festive music, and the warmth of family and friends. Yet, it can also become predictable, with the same old routines year after year. This year, why not breathe new life into your holiday celebrations by starting traditions that are meaningful, fun, and memorable? From cozy nights at home to giving back to the community, there’s no shortage of ways to make this season truly special. Below, we’ve curated a comprehensive guide of new holiday traditions your family will look forward to every year.

1. Create a Family Holiday Bucket List

Every year, sit down as a family and write out a holiday bucket list. Include everything you’d like to do before the season ends, from simple activities like making hot cocoa and watching a favorite holiday movie to bigger outings like ice skating, visiting holiday markets, or attending a tree-lighting ceremony.

Why It Works

• Gives everyone something to anticipate.

• Encourages shared decision-making and inclusivity.

• Builds excitement and accountability; once an activity is on the list, it’s more likely to happen.

Tips to Make It Fun

• Use a large chalkboard or corkboard to display your list.

• Assign each family member a “bucket list day” to pick an activity.

• Include a mix of indoor and outdoor activities for flexibility.

2. Adopt a Holiday Book or Movie Night Tradition

Whether it’s curling up with a classic holiday movie or reading a new seasonal story, a dedicated night for festive media can become a beloved family ritual.

Ideas for Books

• How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss

• The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg

• A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens

• New releases with winter or holiday themes

Ideas for Movies

• Home Alone

• Elf

• It’s a Wonderful Life

• The Holiday

Why It Works

• Encourages quality time without distractions.

• Can be adapted for any age group.

• Builds nostalgia; kids often remember these nights into adulthood.

Make It Special

• Serve themed snacks like popcorn with holiday sprinkles or hot chocolate with marshmallows.

• Rotate who gets to choose the book or movie each week.

• Create a cozy viewing area with blankets, pillows, and fairy lights.

3. Start a Family Gratitude Jar

In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it’s easy to forget the importance of gratitude. A family gratitude jar is a simple, meaningful way to reflect on what you’re thankful for.

How to Start

• Place a jar or container in a central spot in your home.

• Provide small slips of paper and pens.

• Encourage family members to write down something they are grateful for each day leading up to the holidays.

Why It Works

• Reinforces a positive mindset during a potentially stressful season.

• Provides a tangible way to reflect on memories and achievements.

• Serves as a keepsake to revisit in future years.

Pro Tip

Read all the notes aloud on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Day to share appreciation and celebrate family bonds.

4. Host a Holiday Cooking or Baking Day

Food has a magical way of bringing people together. Dedicate one day each season to cooking or baking as a family, making favorite recipes or experimenting with new ones.

Ideas for Activities

• Bake a batch of cookies for neighbors or friends.

• Make homemade candy, fudge, or chocolate truffles.

• Prepare a new holiday recipe together, like a festive pie or specialty bread.

Why It Works

• Combines learning, teamwork, and creativity.

• Encourages kids to participate in cooking and kitchen skills.

• Produces treats that can be gifted or enjoyed during the holidays.

Make It Memorable

• Set up a decorating station with sprinkles, frosting, and cookie cutters.

• Play holiday music or podcasts while baking.

• Photograph or video the process to create an annual “holiday cooking album.”

5. Give Back With a Family Service Tradition

Starting a tradition of giving back can instill lifelong values in your children and bring a deep sense of fulfillment to the holiday season.

Ideas

• Volunteer at a local food bank, animal shelter, or soup kitchen.

• Collect and donate toys, clothes, or books to those in need.

• Organize a neighborhood holiday cleanup or small community project.

Why It Works

• Teaches empathy and gratitude.

• Encourages teamwork outside the family unit.

• Offers a meaningful counterbalance to the commercial aspects of the season.

6. Plan a Holiday Scavenger Hunt

Turn a classic tradition into something fresh with a holiday scavenger hunt. This can be done inside your home or around your neighborhood.

How to Organize

• Create themed clues leading to small gifts or treats.

• Include riddles, trivia, or tasks for each family member.

• Offer a larger “treasure” at the end, like a special family movie night kit or board game.

Why It Works

• Adds excitement and adventure to the holidays.

• Engages kids and adults alike in problem-solving.

• Can be adapted annually to include new challenges or locations.

7. Create an Annual Ornament or Decoration Tradition

A great way to mark each year is by adding a special ornament or decoration to your collection.

Ideas

• Pick an ornament representing a family milestone, trip, or achievement.

• Make a DIY ornament as a family craft project each year.

• Create a rotating centerpiece or table décor that evolves annually.

Why It Works

• Builds a tangible collection of memories over time.

• Encourages creativity and personal expression.

• Provides a visual story of your family’s journey year after year.

8. Host a Holiday Game Night

While gift-giving is a central holiday tradition, shared experiences often leave a stronger impression. Start a holiday game night to bring everyone together.

Game Ideas

• Classic board games like Monopoly or Scrabble with a holiday twist.

• Card games such as Uno or Go Fish.

• Holiday-themed trivia or charades.

Why It Works

• Encourages laughter and bonding.

• Offers a screen-free family activity.

• Can become an anticipated part of your holiday calendar.

Extra Tips

• Include small holiday prizes for winners.

• Rotate game selection each year for variety.

• Pair with themed snacks or festive drinks.

9. Start a Holiday Music or Carol Tradition

Music is an integral part of the season, and a family music tradition can bring joy and laughter year after year.

Ideas

• Choose one night a week to sing carols around the house.

• Create a “family holiday playlist” with each member’s favorite songs.

• Attend a local holiday concert or choir performance together.

Why It Works

• Creates shared experiences centered on joy and celebration.

• Allows family members to showcase musical talents.

• Encourages participation across generations.

10. Set Up a Seasonal Photo Tradition

Documenting the season in a unique, recurring way can become a treasured family ritual.

Ideas

• Take a family photo in the same spot each year to observe growth and change.

• Create a holiday-themed mini photoshoot for pets, kids, or extended family.

• Print a yearly holiday photo collage to display in your home.

Why It Works

• Preserves memories in a tangible, visual form.

• Encourages family involvement in creative projects.

• Builds a collection of keepsakes to revisit year after year.

11. Make a “Holiday Time Capsule”

A time capsule is a fun way to reflect on the year and anticipate the future.

How to Do It

• Use a sturdy container to store small notes, photos, or mementos.

• Have each family member contribute a letter or item that represents the year.

• Open the capsule the following holiday season to see how things have changed.

Why It Works

• Encourages reflection and mindfulness.

• Strengthens family bonds by sharing personal stories and memories.

• Can evolve into a decades-long tradition.

12. Host a Themed Holiday Night

Choose a theme each year to make one night of the holiday season unique and special.

Ideas

• Gingerbread House Decorating Night – complete with hot cocoa and festive music.

• Winter Wonderland Pajama Party – everyone dresses in holiday pajamas, plays games, and exchanges small gifts.

• DIY Ornament or Craft Night – create handmade decorations while enjoying seasonal treats.

Why It Works

• Builds anticipation and excitement around a single evening.

• Encourages creativity and family participation.

• Provides memories that are documented in photos and stories.

13. Establish a Giving Back Tradition

Beyond volunteering, consider a charity-focused holiday tradition that becomes an annual ritual for your family.

Ideas

• Select a family charity each year and make a small donation together.

• Sponsor a child or family in need and shop for gifts together.

• Participate in local “adopt a senior” programs, delivering treats or essentials to brighten someone’s holiday.

Why It Works

• Teaches empathy and gratitude to children.

• Reinforces the idea that the holidays are about more than material gifts.

• Creates meaningful, shared experiences that the whole family can look forward to.

14. Start a Holiday Craft or DIY Tradition

Crafting together is not just fun—it’s a hands-on way to create memories and personalized holiday décor. A DIY tradition allows family members of all ages to contribute their creativity, leaving the home beautifully decorated while building lasting memories.

Ideas

• Homemade Ornaments: Each year, create a new ornament that reflects your family’s experiences or milestones. Over time, your tree tells a story of growth and shared moments.

• DIY Holiday Cards: Design and send personalized holiday cards to family and friends. Children can add their own artwork, and adults can include thoughtful messages.

• Handmade Gift Wrapping: Make wrapping paper, gift tags, or ribbons together for a unique touch on every present.

Why It Works

• Encourages collaboration and creativity.

• Results in tangible items that hold sentimental value.

• Offers a sense of accomplishment and pride for children and adults alike.

15. Celebrate a Family “Holiday Night In”

Not every holiday tradition has to involve going out. Establish a cozy, stay-at-home evening dedicated to family connection and relaxation.

Ideas

• Hot Cocoa and Pajamas: Everyone wears their favorite PJs and drinks homemade hot chocolate.

• Game Night or Puzzle Night: Pull out a classic board game or start a large holiday-themed puzzle together.

• Storytime by the Tree: Take turns reading holiday books or telling favorite family stories.

Why It Works

• Reinforces the joy of simple moments.

• Helps balance hectic schedules with meaningful downtime.

• Can be adapted for families of all sizes and ages.

16. Create a Family Advent Calendar

While Advent calendars are traditionally for children, you can adapt this idea for the entire family with meaningful daily surprises.

Ideas

• Activities Calendar: Each day features a small activity, like making cookies, writing a gratitude note, or watching a holiday movie.

• Acts of Kindness Calendar: Include a daily prompt to perform a small act of kindness, such as donating to charity, complimenting someone, or helping a neighbor.

• Experience Calendar: Fill the calendar with mini experiences, like decorating the front yard, visiting a local holiday market, or trying a new festive recipe.

Why It Works

• Builds excitement throughout the season.

• Encourages participation from every family member.

• Combines anticipation with meaningful action, creating memories rather than just gifts.

17. Host an Annual Holiday “Family Awards” Night

Celebrate the quirks, talents, and achievements of your family members with a fun, festive awards night.

Ideas

• Create playful categories like “Best Holiday Sweater,” “Master Chef of Cookies,” or “Funniest Holiday Joke.”

• Have each family member vote and present trophies, ribbons, or certificates.

• Include a mix of humorous and heartfelt awards to ensure everyone feels included.

Why It Works

• Encourages bonding and laughter.

• Highlights individual strengths while fostering family appreciation.

• Can become a cherished tradition that everyone anticipates each year.

18. Introduce a Holiday Music or Carol Tradition

Music is a universal connector, and starting a holiday music ritual can bring joy, nostalgia, and togetherness.

Ideas

• Sing-Along Night: Pick one night a week to gather and sing classic holiday songs together.

• Family Holiday Playlist: Each member adds their favorite festive tracks to a collaborative playlist.

• Attend Live Music: Plan an outing to a local choir, orchestra, or holiday concert.

Why It Works

• Creates a joyful atmosphere in your home.

• Involves every family member, from toddlers to grandparents.

• Builds anticipation and excitement as songs become synonymous with your holidays.

19. Document the Holidays with a Family Journal or Scrapbook

Recording moments each year ensures memories are preserved and cherished for generations.

Ideas

• Start a Holiday Journal where everyone writes about their favorite memories, activities, or reflections.

• Create a scrapbook with photos, ticket stubs, and mementos from holiday outings.

• Include a “funniest moment” or “most memorable gift” section to make it playful.

Why It Works

• Preserves memories in a tangible way.

• Encourages reflection and gratitude.

• Becomes a keepsake that children will treasure as adults.

20. Establish a Holiday Tradition With Pets

Pets are part of the family too, and including them in holiday traditions can be fun and heartwarming.

Ideas

• Dress pets in festive costumes or collars and include them in family photos.

• Bake homemade pet treats together.

• Create a small pet stocking filled with toys or goodies.

Why It Works

• Strengthens family bonds and includes all members of the household.

• Provides opportunities for cute, shareable moments.

• Adds joy and laughter to holiday routines.

21. Make a Holiday Travel or Outing Tradition

If your family enjoys exploring, start an annual holiday outing or trip.

Ideas

• Visit a nearby Christmas market, holiday festival, or light display.

• Take a weekend trip to a snowy cabin or a cozy mountain lodge.

• Explore local museums or theaters that offer seasonal exhibits or performances.

Why It Works

• Creates anticipation and excitement for the season.

• Encourages shared experiences outside the home.

• Provides memories that are talked about and cherished for years.

22. Start a Year-End Reflection Tradition

As the holidays approach, it can be meaningful to reflect on the past year as a family.

Ideas

• Host a casual gathering where everyone shares their highlights and lessons from the year.

• Have each member write down goals or wishes for the upcoming year.

• Create a “family vision board” for the next year’s adventures and aspirations.

Why It Works

• Encourages mindfulness and gratitude.

• Strengthens family connections through shared experiences.

• Becomes a meaningful tradition that marks both an ending and a beginning.

23. Celebrate with Seasonal Outdoor Activities

Incorporating nature into your holiday traditions can be refreshing and energizing.

Ideas

• Go ice skating, sledding, or snowshoeing together.

• Take a winter hike to enjoy holiday lights in nature or a scenic sunset.

• Plant a tree or decorate a small outdoor garden feature to commemorate the season.

Why It Works

• Combines physical activity with family bonding.

• Encourages appreciation of the outdoors and seasonal changes.

• Offers a break from indoor holiday routines.

Make the Holidays Truly Your Own

The holiday season is about connection, joy, and creating lasting memories. By introducing new traditions—whether small daily rituals, family craft nights, or meaningful acts of giving—you can turn the season into a unique and cherished experience for your family.

These traditions don’t have to be extravagant or expensive; the most memorable experiences often come from simple, thoughtful moments that emphasize togetherness, laughter, and gratitude. Whether it’s documenting the year with a scrapbook, hosting a family awards night, or simply sipping hot cocoa together in your pajamas, each tradition strengthens the bonds that make the holidays so special.

This season, take the opportunity to start new traditions that your family will look forward to year after year. These are the moments that will become stories, photographs, and rituals—memories that your children and grandchildren will carry forward for generations.

Celebrate the holidays not just as a date on the calendar, but as a season of connection, joy, and intentional family time. Happy holidays—and here’s to making this season unforgettable!