Christmas Eve Traditions: 5 Things For Adults, Children And Families To Do The Night Before Holiday

Everybody knows the holiday fun really starts on Christmas Day when presents are opened and families get together for good food and fun. But that can lead to children getting restless on Christmas Eve while they wait for Santa Claus to arrive the next morning. By adopting some special Christmas Eve traditions, the night will become something to look forward to as well. These five options are perfect for families and friends looking to celebrate the night before Christmas.

Open one gift. At midnight, have everybody in the family open one gift that’s been set aside. Exchanging pajamas as a Christmas Eve present can make for a fun tradition for both kids and adults. For kids, wrap up a reindeer or Santa onesie to really make the night special. Having everyone wear their festive PJs to bed will make waking up on Christmas morning that much more exciting.

Bake cookies for Santa. Leaving a treat for the Saint Nick is one of the better known Christmas traditions. But instead of leaving pre-made cookies, have the whole family spend some time making them from scratch. The kids will enjoy creating a special treat for Santa and the tradition will give them an activity to look forward to on the night of Christmas Eve.

Have a movie night. Pass the time on Christmas Eve by gathering family and friends for a holiday movie night. Set out hot chocolate, marshmallows, candy canes and other festive treats alongside blankets and pillows and put on a classic Christmas movie. Movies like "Elf," "It’s a Wonderful Life," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" and "A Christmas Story" are good options to choose from.

Go caroling. Caroling on Christmas Eve night is a fun and classic Christmas tradition. Classic Christmas song lyrics are easily accessible all over the internet, so children will be able to follow along while singing to friends and neighbors.

Have a game night. Waiting for Santa Claus to arrive on Christmas morning can lead to a lot of restless children on Christmas Eve. Keep them busy by setting aside a few games and activities to pass the time that night. Playing board games like Monopoly and Clue make for good family activities. Another option is to wrap up a small box for children that they can open on Christmas Eve and include all their favorites like crayons, toys, and books.