The holiday break is a great opportunity to unwind and have fun as a family, and young kids may be especially enthusiastic about this unique time of year. Making a plan and a list of things to do in advance can be helpful because keeping the kids occupied for two weeks straight can be challenging. A surefire way to maintain your sanity while creating priceless memories is to keep the kids busy.
Here are ten fun things to do with kids during the holiday break:
1. Visit a local holiday market
Many cities and towns have holiday markets that feature festive stalls, food, and activities. From browsing handmade gifts to trying traditional treats, these markets are a fun way to get into the holiday spirit. Check out this article The Ultimate Guide to Philly’s Pop-Up Holiday Markets!
2. Have a holiday movie marathon
Snuggling up on the couch with a stack of holiday movies is a classic way to spend a cold winter day. From classic animated films to heartwarming holiday favorites, there are plenty of options to keep kids entertained. Here are some family holiday movie ideas:
- “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”
- “Frosty the Snowman”
- “The Little Drummer Boy”
- “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
- “The Grinch” (animated version)
- “The Polar Express”
- “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”
- “The Santa Clause”
- “Elf”
- “Arthur Christmas”
- “The Muppet Christmas Carol”
- “Mickey’s Christmas Carol”
- “A Christmas Carol”
- “The Snowman”
- “The Nutcracker”
Always read reviews to ensure that they are age-appropriate for your children.
3. Go ice skating
Ice skating is a classic winter activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. Whether you go to an indoor rink or an outdoor one, it’s a great way to get active and have fun. Local Philly options include the Blue Cross Riverrink Winterfest and the Rothman Orthopaedics Ice Rink at Dilworth Park.
4. Make holiday crafts
Get creative with your kids by making holiday crafts together. From paper snowflakes to pinecone ornaments, there are plenty of fun and easy projects you can do with materials you likely already have at home. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Make a paper plate wreath: Cut a paper plate into a wreath shape and then let the kids decorate it with markers, stickers, or other craft materials.
- Create holiday cards: Gather construction paper, scissors, glue, and other craft materials and let the kids design their own holiday cards to give to friends and family.
- Build a gingerbread house: You can buy a gingerbread house kit or make your own gingerbread and use frosting and candy to decorate it.
- Make a pinecone tree: Collect some pinecones and then have the kids decorate them with paint, glitter, or other craft materials. You can then use them to create a small pinecone tree.
- Create holiday ornaments: Gather some clear plastic ornaments and let the kids fill them with small objects, such as beads or sequins, to create their own unique ornaments. Alternatively, you can use salt dough or clay to shape and bake your own ornaments.
5. Go on a nature walk
If the weather permits, bundle up and take a walk in a nearby park or nature reserve. Look for animal tracks, listen to the sounds of the winter woods, and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty. There are many places in Philadelphia to go walking, just make sure to bundle up!
6. Have a holiday baking day
Nothing says the holidays like the smell of freshly baked treats. Involve your kids in the process by letting them help mix and roll out dough, cut out cookies, and decorate baked goods.
7. Go to a holiday light display
Many cities and towns have elaborate holiday light displays that are a fun and festive way to spend an evening. Pack some hot cocoa and blankets and enjoy the twinkling lights with your little ones. There are quite a few light displays in our area!
8. Attend a holiday concert or play
Many communities have holiday concerts or plays that are perfect for young children. From carol singing to live performances, these events are a great way to get into the holiday spirit. There are many fun events going on in the Philadelphia area!
9. Have a holiday game night
Gather the whole family for a night of holiday-themed games and activities. From charades to holiday trivia, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained.
10. Visit a local museum or science center
Many museums and science centers offer special holiday exhibits and activities that are perfect for young children. From interactive exhibits to hands-on workshops, these educational destinations can provide endless entertainment and learning opportunities. One option is the Philadelphia Museum of Art where they have events scheduled through January 1st and kids 18 and under are always free!
No matter what you decide to do, the holiday break is a great time to spend quality time with your kids and make lasting memories. So get out there and have some fun!
The holidays are also a great time to capture your family through a photography session! I’d love to help you document this time in your family’s life with a family portrait session. To learn more about the sessions I offer, check out my website here! You can also reach me here to chat about your vision for a photography session!
