We don’t deny it’s fun, but doing the rounds at Christmas can really add up. Panto, Ice skating, Christmas markets and the latest Christmas flick at the cinema- sound familiar? When you factor in gift shopping, this time of year can really be a squeeze.
But the magic of Christmas doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are our top alternative Christmas traditions for you to enjoy with the kids this Christmas.
- Christmas baking is always bags of fun, whether you’re 7 or 70. The kids will love getting their hands all messy and decorating the kitchen with flour and sprinkles, so it’s a great one to do with yours, whether it’s your own kids, your grandkids, nieces and nephews or friends on a playdate. There’s nothing more satisfying than the smell of gingerbread baking in the oven. Gingerbread men are a firm favourite, and make great gifts too. Wrap them in cellophane and tie with a ribbon to make pretty stocking fillers for all the family and friends from the kids. Bonus feature- decorating will keep the kids occupied for ages, win win!
- If you were thinking about catching the latest Christmas movie at the cinema, it might be worth having a re-think. A movie night at home is a much more affordable and ultimately much more fun option. After all, you can’t wear your matching Christmas pj’s to your local Odeon can you? Most of us have some kind of streaming service now, whether it’s Netflix, Amazon Prime, Paramount +, or Disney +, so you’re guaranteed a great selection of Christmas classics. Add homemade popcorn to the mix (get the how to here, it’s great fun for the kids too!) along with some of those delicious biscuits you made earlier, snuggle on the sofa, and you’ve got a perfect festive night in with all the best Christmas movies.
- A great way to spend quality time with the kids in the run up to Christmas is with a bedtime story. Put all your favourite Christmas books in a basket and choose one a night to read together with a hot cup of cocoa before bed. It’s a lovely, gentle way to enjoy spending time together, and will nurture a love of books for years to come. Check out these great age appropriate Christmas reading lists for ideas.
- There’s nothing more magical than visiting Father Christmas in his grotto. Some can be quite costly, but there are plenty of Father Christmas experiences that the kids can visit for free. Check your local guides and listings to find the best ones near you.
- Every year, we get our best friends round with their kids for a Christmas carol night. Everyone brings a bottle or a dish, and we have a great time belting out some festive favourites. It’s rarely in tune, and sometimes the dog joins in too, but it’s a great laugh. An inexpensive way to have a hilarious, memorable time with friends and family.
Christmas is always about spending time with loved ones, so ultimately whatever you do, as long as you’re doing it together, the kids, and you, will love every second.
