10 Simple & Cheap Family Christmas Activities: Free Things to Do at Christmas

As the festive season approaches, families often seek enjoyable yet budget-friendly ways to celebrate Christmas together. Here are ten delightful activities that won’t break the bank but will create cherished memories:

1. Homemade Decorations: Gather the family to craft Christmas decorations from items you already have around the house. Think paper snowflakes, salt dough ornaments, or even upcycled jars turned into festive candle holders.

2. Christmas Movie Marathon: Snuggle up for a cosy night in with a line-up of your favourite Christmas films. Make popcorn, grab some blankets, and enjoy the festive spirit without stepping outside.

3. Baking Day: Spend a day in the kitchen baking traditional Christmas treats. Whether it’s gingerbread cookies or mince pies, involve everyone in the decorating process for a fun bonding experience.

4. Nature Walk and Scavenger Hunt: Take a winter walk in a local park or nature reserve. Create a scavenger hunt with things to find, like pinecones, holly leaves, or interesting stones. It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp air and appreciate nature’s beauty.

5. Visit Local Christmas Markets: Many towns host free entry Christmas markets. Take a stroll through the stalls, enjoy the festive lights, and soak up the atmosphere without spending much.

6. Christmas Card Making: Get creative and design your own Christmas cards for friends and family. Use recycled paper and craft supplies to add a personal touch that everyone will appreciate.

7. Volunteer Together: Spread the festive cheer by volunteering as a family at a local charity. Whether it’s helping at a food bank or participating in a community event, giving back to those in need can be a rewarding experience.

8. Storytelling Night: Gather around the fireplace (or the sofa!) and take turns sharing your favourite Christmas stories or memories. You could even read classic Christmas tales together for that nostalgic feel.

9. Carolling: Organise a family carol singing evening. Sing traditional carols and invite neighbours to join in, spreading joy through music and laughter.

10. DIY Christmas Gifts: Make simple gifts for one another using materials you have at home. Handmade items often carry more sentimental value and show how much you care.

These activities not only keep costs down but also allow families to connect, reflect, and relish the true spirit of Christmas together.

The Gift Exchange Game for large groups is an engaging and festive activity that adds a touch of excitement to any gathering, be it a corporate event, a family reunion, or a holiday celebration. Participants are typically asked to bring a wrapped gift within a predetermined budget, fostering an element of surprise and curiosity.

The game begins with each person drawing a number from a hat, which determines the order in which they will select gifts. The first player chooses a gift and opens it for all to see, while subsequent players can either select a new gift or "steal" an already opened gift from someone else. This creates an atmosphere of playful competition and camaraderie, as the tension builds with each round.

In larger groups, the dynamics often lead to laughter and lighthearted banter, as participants navigate the strategy of choosing gifts based on their visual appeal or the potential of having a coveted item snatched away. To keep things lively, some variations introduce additional rules, such as limiting the number of times a gift can be stolen or allowing “bonus” gifts to be revealed for even more unexpected delights.

Overall, the Gift Exchange Game provides a delightful way to break the ice, spark conversations, and foster connections among participants, making it a wonderfully entertaining choice for large gatherings.