Fun Family Christmas Activities With Teens They’ll Enjoy

I am a huge Christmas fan and I love the build up of the Christmas season.  When my kids were little it was easy to bring the magic of the season to life but as my kids hit their teen years it takes a little more work to find Christmas activities that teenagers will love.  

During the holidays, it can be a real challenge to keep older kids engaged. They're past the age of being easily entertained by simple holiday crafts or the magic of Santa Claus. Plus, with their growing independence and the allure of social media and gadgets, it's easy for them to drift into their own worlds.

It's not like when they were little, and the sight of twinkling Christmas lights or a fresh batch of cookies would light up their eyes. Now, it takes a bit more creativity and effort to find activities that capture their interest and keep the holiday spirit alive.

Sometimes we think that the Christmas activities and build-up is just for the little kids but the truth is teenagers love it too.  It's all about striking a balance and finding ways to make the season special for them too. But with a sprinkle of creativity and understanding their interests, we can find Christmas activities that teens will love.  Allowing you to create new traditions and memories that resonate with them, ensuring the holiday magic remains alive and well for everyone in the family.

This post is all about the best Christmas activities for teens!

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The IMPORTANCE of keeping older kids engaged during the holidays.

There's something so magical about the Christmas season.  The twinkling lights, the soft hum of Christmas carols in the background, and that unmistakable holiday spirit in the air. But amidst all the hustle and bustle, what truly makes this time of year special is spending quality time with family. Sometimes we think that the Christmas activities and build-up is just for the little kids but the truth is teenagers love it too.  

Christmas traditions play a pivotal role in the lives of teenagers. At a stage where they're navigating the complexities of adolescence and seeking a sense of identity and belonging, these traditions offer a grounding anchor. They provide a consistent and familiar backdrop amidst the whirlwind of change and growth teens experience.

For teenagers, these traditions can serve as a bridge between childhood and adulthood. They're reminders of simpler times, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Participating in family rituals, allows teens to feel connected to their roots and heritage. It gives them a sense of continuity, understanding that they are part of something bigger than themselves.

Moreover, in an age dominated by technology and social media, where genuine face-to-face interactions can sometimes take a backseat, holiday traditions ensure that families come together. They create opportunities for meaningful conversations, bonding, and the creation of lasting memories. For teens, this quality time can be instrumental in building self-esteem, resilience, and a strong sense of self-worth.

Furthermore, traditions can also be a platform for teens to contribute and evolve. As they grow older, they can take on more significant roles in these traditions, infusing them with their own ideas and perspectives. This not only gives them a sense of responsibility and inclusion but also ensures that traditions remain dynamic and relevant.

In essence, while the holidays are a time of joy and celebration, for teenagers, the family traditions that accompany them are crucial. They offer stability, connection, and a cherished sense of belonging, helping mold their character and values as they journey into adulthood.

Family Christmas Activities That Teens Will Love

Christmas Tree Shopping:  

Selecting a Christmas tree is not just a task on the holiday to-do list; for many teens, it's an eagerly anticipated event that's brimming with excitement and tradition. 

A fun option is to venture out to "cut your own" tree lots transforms the experience into a delightful adventure. These lots, often nestled amidst sprawling woodlands, offer a genuine, rustic feel that's a far cry from the urban hustle and bustle. For a teen, it's a chance to actively participate in the hunt, measuring, assessing, and finally choosing the perfect tree. These lots often become picturesque winter wonderlands, offering myriad photo opportunities. Whether it's a candid shot amidst the tall pines, a posed picture with the freshly cut tree, or a fun, goofy snap covered in pine needles, the memories captured are priceless. Year after year, these photos can chart the growth of the teen, becoming cherished keepsakes that evoke nostalgia.

If you don't have a cut your own lot in your area, it is still a fun adventure to go to a local lot and choose the perfect tree.  Adding to the fun, most tree lots brew hot chocolate or cider.  Sipping on-site hot cider, with its warm, spicy undertones, is a sensory delight. It's a moment to pause, savor the drink, and soak in the surroundings. The act becomes a ritual, a marker of the season, and a warm respite from the chilly outdoors.
In essence, for a teen, going to select a Christmas tree is a multi-faceted experience. It's about bonding with family, engaging with nature, capturing moments in photos, and indulging in simple seasonal pleasures like hot cider. It's a tradition that, year after year, promises joy, connection, and the magic of the holiday spirit.

DIY Christmas Decorations

Making Christmas decorations with teens is a great way for parents and teenagers to bond, share creative ideas, and build lasting memories. As teens navigate the complexities of adolescence, crafting together can be a grounding experience, allowing them to express themselves and contribute to the family's holiday preparations. 

For instance, crafting personalized ornaments can lead to discussions about past holidays, with each decoration telling a story. Plus each year when you decorate the tree you can remember the time you spent together.  One year when I was a kid my dad and I made shrinky dink ornaments.  I still have those ornaments and when my parents come over for tree decorating we still laugh when we hang those up (the drawings weren't exactly art gallery worthy).  

Designing a unique wreath can become a blend of traditional elements and modern touches that reflect the teen's evolving tastes. Even creating intricate paper snowflakes or hand-painted Christmas cards can be a therapeutic and rewarding endeavor. Beyond the tangible creations, it's the shared laughter, the joy of accomplishment, and the cherished moments of togetherness that make this activity truly special during the holiday season.

Christmas Movie Marathon

A Christmas movie marathon is a great way to spend quality time with your teen, especially during the festive season. As the cold winter nights set in, there's something incredibly cozy about snuggling up on the couch with warm blankets, hot cocoa, and a lineup of classic and contemporary holiday films. Sitting down and watching Christmas movies is definitely something the who family can enjoy!  

Baking Session

A holiday baking session with teens is a heartwarming and productive way to embrace the festive spirit. At its core, baking is a blend of art and science, offering teens a hands-on experience to express their creativity while understanding the precision required in measurements and timings. As they mix, knead, and decorate, they not only hone their culinary skills but also engage in a therapeutic activity that can be a welcome break from the digital world.

Baking together fosters teamwork and collaboration. It's a chance for parents and teens to share family recipes, swap stories of past baking adventures, and even experiment with new flavors or designs. The aroma of freshly baked Christmas cookies, pies, or bread filling the home evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, creating an atmosphere of togetherness.

But the joy of a baking session doesn't end in the kitchen. Once the treats are ready, packaging them beautifully and delivering them to neighbors and friends becomes an extension of the activity. It teaches teens the value of giving, of spreading joy in simple, heartfelt ways. Hand-delivering these homemade delights can strengthen community bonds and offer a personal touch in an era of online interactions.

Lastly, after all the hard work and deliveries, sitting down together to savor the treats is the cherry on top. It's a moment of shared accomplishment, where the fruits of your labor can be enjoyed in each bite. Whether it's the crunch of a cookie, the softness of a freshly baked cake, or the richness of a chocolate truffle, these treats become symbols of love, effort, and the magic of the holiday season. In essence, a holiday baking session with teens is more than just making food; it's about building connections, creating memories, and sharing the joy of the season.

Christmas Carol Karaoke

Christmas Karaoke with teens is a super fun way to usher in the festive spirit. At an age where they're exploring their identity and seeking avenues for expression, karaoke offers them a platform to let loose, be themselves, and even showcase their vocal talents. Imagine belting out classics like "Jingle Bell Rock," "Last Christmas," "All I Want for Christmas Is You," and "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" with a room full of energy and cheer. The song choices are endless, and everyone can find a tune that resonates with them.

To amp up the fun, parents can introduce games or competitions. How about a 'Guess the Song' challenge, where participants hum the tune and others guess? Or a 'Duet Duel,' where pairs compete to deliver the best duet performance? There could even be a 'Christmas Costume Karaoke' where participants dress up as characters from their chosen song. The combination of music, friendly competition, and the joyous ambiance creates an environment where both teens and adults can connect, laugh, and create lasting holiday memories.

Visit a Christmas Market

Visiting a Christmas Market is like stepping into a holiday wonderland. Imagine walking around with twinkling lights everywhere, the smell of yummy treats in the air, and stalls full of unique gifts. It's a fun place to shop, eat, and soak in the festive vibes. Plus, there's always something special to see, like carolers singing or handmade crafts. It's a cozy spot to spend time with family or friends, sipping on hot cocoa and just enjoying the season. In short, a trip to a Christmas Market is a merry way to get into the holiday spirit and make some fun memories.

Holiday Light Tour

Taking a Holiday Light Tour with teens is a bright and festive way to spend an evening. Driving or walking around to see houses decked out in colorful lights and creative displays is like watching the neighborhood come alive with holiday magic. But to make it even more engaging for teens, you can turn it into a scavenger hunt. Create a list of things to spot, like a snowman, a reindeer, or a house with only blue lights. As you go around, everyone can check off what they see. It adds a fun challenge and a bit of friendly competition to the mix. Plus, it's a cozy way to chat, share laughs, and enjoy the dazzling displays together. In short, a Holiday Light Tour is not just about the lights; it's about the shared moments and memories you create along the way.

DIY Gift Making

Making DIY gifts is a fun and special way to spend time together. Instead of buying things from the store, you get to create something with your own hands. It's like adding a personal touch to every gift. Imagine making bath bombs that smell amazing, or hot chocolate bombs that burst with marshmallows when you pour hot milk over them. And crafting Christmas ornaments? It's like creating little memories that friends and family can hang on their trees. Plus, while making these gifts, you get to chat, laugh, and enjoy each other's company. So, not only do you end up with great presents to give, but you also make some lovely memories along the way.

Christmas Scavenger Hunt

A Christmas scavenger hunt is a brilliant way to add some playful excitement to the festive season. It's not just about finding items; it's about the thrill of the chase, the teamwork, and the shared laughter as clues are deciphered and treasures are discovered.

For families with a mix of ages, it's especially wonderful because it's so adaptable. Younger kids can be included by making some clues more straightforward or by pairing them up with older siblings or adults. This ensures everyone is included in the Christmas fun. Plus, the items or clues can be themed around Christmas stories or songs they're familiar with, making it educational and fun.

At the end of the hunt, perhaps there could be a small festive treat or gift, adding to the anticipation and delight. In essence, a Christmas scavenger hunt is a fantastic way to bond, engage all family members, and create lasting holiday memories.

Volunteer Together

Volunteering together during Christmas time is a deeply rewarding experience that embodies the true spirit of the season. It's a time of giving, and what better way to give than by offering your time and effort to help those in need? Volunteering allows families to step outside their usual routines and connect with the broader community. It teaches valuable lessons about empathy, gratitude, and the impact of kindness.

For families, it's an opportunity to bond in a meaningful way, working together towards a common goal. Whether it's donating to local food banks, serving meals at a local shelter, organizing toy drives, or visiting elderly residents in care homes, these acts of service create lasting memories and instill a sense of purpose. Moreover, it's a gentle reminder of the blessings we often take for granted and encourages a tradition of giving back, making Christmas not just a time of receiving, but more importantly, a time of giving.

Ice Skating:

Ice skating is a lot of fun and a wonderful way to bond and create shared memories.  If your teenager has a boyfriend or girlfriend, it's a great activity to include them in.  Including their significant other in family outings like this can strengthen relationships and foster a sense of inclusion. 

Many ice skating rinks have upped the experience by offering igloo rentals. These cozy, transparent domes provide a private space where groups can relax after skating. Sipping hot chocolate, roasting s'mores over a little fire, and laughing about the day's skating mishaps inside an igloo adds a unique and memorable touch to the experience.

In essence, ice skating offers a blend of physical activity, bonding moments, and festive treats, making it a must-do during the winter season.

Board Game Night

This is a perfect activity for Christmas Eve when the entire family is together or Christmas evening after dinner.  Christmas board games are a classic way to bring family and friends together during the holiday season. With everyone gathered around the table, these games offer a break from the screen and a chance to engage in some friendly competition while having a great time. Whether it's a festive-themed game or a beloved family favorite, playing board games sparks laughter, strategy, and sometimes playful debates. 

For many families, it's a tradition to introduce a new game each Christmas, adding to the collection and ensuring there's always something fresh to look forward to. Beyond just the fun, these games create lasting memories, as players reminisce about epic wins or hilarious blunders from years past. In essence, Christmas board games capture the spirit of togetherness and joy that the holiday season is all about.

Participate in A Reindeer Run or Other 5K

Participating in a reindeer run or another holiday-themed 5K is a lively and healthy way to bond with your teen. It's not just about the run; it's about the festive atmosphere, with participants often dressing up in fun holiday gear, from reindeer antlers to Santa hats.

Training for the run can be a motivating way for you and your teen to spend time together, setting goals and cheering each other on. On the day of the event, the shared excitement, the community spirit, and the sense of accomplishment after crossing the finish line make it a memorable experience. Plus, it's a great way to stay active during the holiday season and create a tradition that promotes fitness and togetherness.

Christmas Playlist Creation 

Making a Christmas music playlist is a cool activity for teens. Using Spotify, Pandora, or Apple Music, they can pick their favorite holiday songs and put them all in one place. It's fun because they can mix old classics with newer songs they like. This way, everyone gets to hear a bit of what they love.

Once the playlist is ready, it can be played around the house as Christmas gets closer. It's also great to have it playing when guests come over on Christmas day. It helps set a happy and festive mood for everyone.

Build a Gingerbread House

Making a gingerbread house is a sweet and creative activity that the whole family can enjoy. It's not just about building; it's about working together, laughing over mishaps, and admiring everyone's artistic touches. From choosing candies for the rooftop to designing the front door, every step is filled with fun decisions. 

And the best part? You don't have to start from scratch. Places like Trader Joe's offer gingerbread house kits that come with all the essentials, making it easy for families to jump right into the decorating fun. Whether you're following a traditional design or coming up with a unique creation, crafting gingerbread houses is a delightful way to spend quality time together during the holiday season.

Hot Chocolate Bar

Setting up a hot chocolate bar is a fun activity for teens. Here's how they can do it:

A hot chocolate bar is not only tasty but also lets teens show their creativity. Plus, it's a hit with family and friends, making it a warm and sweet treat for everyone.

Christmas Card Photoshoot

Letting teens set up and organize a Christmas Card Photoshoot taps into their love for taking photos, a hobby many of them are naturally good at thanks to the age of smartphones and social media. Here's why it's such a fun and beneficial activity:

1. Playing to Their Strengths: Teens today often have a knack for photography. They know the angles, the filters, and the poses, making them the perfect candidates to capture the family in the best light.
2. Ownership and Responsibility: By putting them "in charge" of the photoshoot, it gives them a sense of ownership and responsibility. This buy-in makes them more enthusiastic and invested in ensuring the photoshoot is a success.
3. Boosting Confidence: Trusting them with this task can boost their confidence. It shows them that their skills and creativity are valued, and their contributions to family activities are significant.
4. Quality Results: With their photography skills and the added motivation of being in charge, there's a good chance you'll end up with some fantastic family photos. These can be used not only for Christmas cards but also as cherished memories to look back on.
5. Building Memories: The process itself, from planning to the actual shoot, becomes a memorable event. It's a mix of fun, creativity, and family bonding, all rolled into one.

In essence, entrusting teens with the Christmas Card Photoshoot is a win-win. The family gets unique and heartfelt photos for the holiday season, and the teens get an opportunity to showcase their skills and play a pivotal role in creating a cherished family moment.

Tree Decorating

Tree decorating is a classic Christmas activity that even teens love. Why? Because it's like a trip down memory lane. As they hang up ornaments, they often find the ones they made when they were little, maybe in preschool or elementary school.

Seeing these old ornaments brings back fun memories. It's cool to see how much they've grown and remember the stories behind each special ornament. Plus, decorating the tree together is just a fun time to chat, laugh, and get into the holiday spirit. In short, it's a simple yet special way to remember old times and make new memories.

White Elephant Gift Exchange

A White Elephant Gift Exchange is a great Christmas activity for teens because it's all about fun, surprises, and a bit of friendly competition.

Teenagers find it fun because you never know what you're going to get in a White Elephant exchange. It could be something funny, useful, or totally unexpected. Teens also love the strategy part. Do they keep the gift they have, or do they swap it for something that looks better?

Some of the gifts can be really funny or quirky, leading to lots of laughs and memorable moments.  It's also budget friendly.  Usually, there's a price limit, so it's affordable for everyone. It's more about the fun than the actual gift.

Some fun ideas for teens might include quirky mugs, funny T-shirts, board games, unique phone accessories, or even DIY kits. The sillier or more unexpected, the better!

In short, a White Elephant Gift Exchange is a lighthearted way for teens to celebrate Christmas, have fun with friends, and enjoy the thrill of the unexpected. It's less about the value of the gift and more about the joy of the experience.

Attend a Christmas Play or Concert

Attending a Christmas play or concert with teenagers is a great way to spend time together. It's fun to watch live performances and listen to holiday music. It helps everyone get into the Christmas spirit.

For teenagers, it's a chance to see something different and maybe even discover new songs or stories. After the show, it's nice to talk about what everyone liked best. Plus, it's a break from regular routines and a special way to enjoy the holiday season. In short, it's a good time and a fun way to make holiday memories with teens.

Christmas Shopping

Christmas shopping for gifts together is more than just buying presents; it's an experience filled with joy and togetherness. Walking through stores with festive decorations and holiday music creates a special atmosphere that's hard to resist. It's a time to share ideas, laugh over quirky finds, and enjoy the thrill of discovering the perfect gift for someone.

Adding in a lunch together at a fun place is a perfect way to spend some quiet time together and catch up.  In essence, shopping together turns a simple task into a memorable outing, making the holiday season feel even more magical and connected.

Plan a Day Trip

Planning a day trip with your teen is a fantastic way to bond and create lasting memories. Stepping away from the usual routine, you can explore new places and share experiences. Consider visiting a nearby town or city you've never been to, checking out local museums or historical sites.

Nature lovers might enjoy a hike in a national park or a day at the beach. If your teen is into arts and culture, a trip to see a live performance or an art exhibit could be exciting.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, amusement parks or adventure sports facilities offer a day of thrills. No matter the destination, the key is to choose something you both will enjoy, ensuring a day of fun and quality time together.

Create a Year in Review Slideshow

Work together or let them create a "Year in Review" slideshow as a way to reflect on the memories and milestones of the past year. By gathering photos, videos, and even snippets of memorable conversations, you can craft a visual journey of the year's highlights.

Whether it's celebrating achievements, recalling fun trips, or simply cherishing everyday moments, the slideshow becomes a time capsule of sorts. Viewing it on Christmas morning or Christmas day adds a special touch to the festivities. As everyone gathers around, it offers a moment of reflection and gratitude, reminding everyone of the times shared and the bonds that have grown stronger.

It's a beautiful tradition that not only brings the family closer but also sets a hopeful tone for the year ahead.

Conclusion

There are so many fun Christmas activities that teenagers can enjoy. Whether it's crafting, baking, watching movies, or just spending time together, the holiday season is a perfect time to bond and make memories. So, gather your teens, pick a few activities, and dive into the festive spirit. Remember, it's not about doing everything perfectly, but about enjoying the moments and making the season special. Merry Christmas!

This post was all about the best Christmas activities for teens!

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