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Family Christmas Traditions, Rituals, and Activities

Light an Advent Candle
Find time either once a week or each night to light a candle of the advent wreath and talk about what the week of Advent represents. If you are in need of an Advent wreath, Advent Calendar, or are looking for ways to celebrate the weeks of Advent together then be sure to see our Family Advent Activity Collection

Birthday Cake for Jesus
Bake a birthday cake and sing Happy Birthday to Jesus. This is a simple way of reminding ourselves and children why we celebrate Christmas. Remember the birthday cake doesn't have to be anything elaborate. A simple box mix or even an Easy Bake oven cake will do!

Blessing Book
Start a blessing book by buying a simple journal. Keep the journal from year to year and have family members add new blessings every year. For those children that are not yet able to write, a simple picture will do.

Good Luck Wishes
Try this Polish tradition on Christmas Eve. Make or buy unleavened bread. Have each family member share a piece of the bread and as the bread is shared give all family members a kiss and wish of good luck. For those wanting to incorporate a true Polish tradition, substitute Oplatek, a wafer, for the unleavened bread.

Give Gifts to Baby Jesus
Using your Giving Box money, purchase layette sized clothing and wrap as presents for baby Jesus. Then as a family, stop by a homeless shelter or home for mothers and children to donate the gifts.

Manger Ritual
As a symbol of the waiting and expectation of Jesus' birth, each night unwrap and place in the manger one piece of the nativity scene. Save baby Jesus for Christmas Day.

Christmas Tree Decorating Party
Set aside a special time in December to decorate the Christmas Tree as a family. Make simple appetizers or finger foods to share and eat as you decorate the tree. Play Christmas music in the background and talk about all the fun things you will do as a family this Christmas season.

Cut Down a Christmas Tree
Why not try cutting down a Christmas tree this year rather than buying one off the lot or putting up the artificial? This is truly a fun filled way to celebrate the Christmas season and one the family is sure to remember for years to come. The National Christmas Tree Association can help you find a Christmas tree farm in your area.

Read Christmas Stories
Set aside time each night to read a different Christmas Story, saving The Night Before Christmas for Christmas Eve.

Advent Calendar
Count down the days of Christmas by purchasing or making an Advent Calendar.

Family Christmas Pajamas
I started this tradition a few years ago. On Christmas Eve the kids get to open two presents...one is their pajama's and the other is a book.

Lynn

Angel Baby Baskets--Sympathy, Remembrance, Hope™
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