Three Cool Programs for Families on December 23
December 23 is a perfect day to slow things down, enjoy each other’s company, and soak up the Christmas atmosphere without the stress of last-minute preparations. Here are three simple but meaningful family programs that work beautifully the day before Christmas Eve.
1. Christmas Movie Afternoon (With a Twist)
Instead of just pressing play and scrolling your phone, turn a movie afternoon into a real family event.
Let everyone vote on the movie in advance, prepare popcorn together, and make the living room cozy with blankets and dim lights. You can even pause once or twice during the movie to talk about favorite scenes or funny moments. This small interaction often matters more than the film itself.
Tip: choose something that works for all ages so nobody feels left out.
2. Baking Together for Christmas Eve
December 23 is ideal for baking, because it’s close enough to Christmas that everything still feels fresh, but not as rushed as the 24th.
Bake simple cookies, gingerbread, or rolls together. Let the kids measure ingredients, shape dough, or decorate with icing. It might get messy, but that’s part of the fun. The kitchen smells, the laughter, and the shared effort often become stronger memories than the food itself.
Bonus: what you bake can be used the next day for guests or as a small homemade gift.
3. Evening Walk to See Christmas Lights
As evening falls, put on warm clothes and go for a short walk together. Look at Christmas lights, decorated windows, and glowing trees. You don’t need a special destination — the goal is simply to be outside, together, and present.
This quiet moment often creates space for conversations that don’t happen during busy days. It also helps children calm down after the excitement of the day.
End the walk with hot chocolate or tea at home for a perfect close.
December 23 doesn’t need big events or expensive plans. A few intentional moments are often enough to set the tone for a warm and meaningful Christmas.
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