Holiday Fun List: 15 Joyful Things to Do With Family & Friends

A cozy, heart-centered guide to creating connection, memories, and mindful moments all season long.

The holidays are a wonderful invitation to slow down, reconnect, and create experiences that nourish our relationships — and our wellbeing. Whether you’re celebrating with family, gathering with friends, or carving out time for winter traditions, these ideas are simple, meaningful, and full of festive joy.

Here are 15 cozy, mindful, and memory-making ways to celebrate this season.

❄️ 1. Host a Cozy Movie Night (PJs Mandatory)

Create a playlist of holiday classics, make popcorn, pour hot chocolate, and settle in. Tip: vote on the best holiday character at the end.

🎁 2. DIY Gift-Making Afternoon

Craft simple homemade gifts like ornaments, cookie mixes, or handwritten gratitude cards. These always become the most appreciated presents.

✨ 3. Take a Holiday Lights Walk

Bundle up and explore festive neighbourhoods. Bring a warm drink and enjoy the magic of twinkling lights together.

🍪 4. Cookie Bake & Swap

Everyone bakes their favorite cookie and trades a dozen. Leave with a beautiful mix of treats to share (or keep!).

🎶 5. Festive Karaoke or Lip Sync Night

Holiday hits, 90s throwbacks — you pick the playlist. Fun guaranteed.

🧣 6. Winter Wellness Morning

Start a weekend with a gentle stretch, a short walk, and a shared brunch or experience. A beautiful reset for body and mind.

🎄 7. Decorate the Tree Together

Turn on the music, assign roles (light-master, ornament curator), and make it a full-family ritual.

☃️ 8. Build a Snowman or Snow Village

If snow is scarce, switch to a beach or forest walk. The goal is simple: movement + fun.

🕯️ 9. Make a “Year in Review” Jar

Everyone writes their favourite moments of the year. Read them together on New Year’s Day.

🎨 10. Holiday Craft + Sip Night

Choose a simple project — garlands, wreaths, or holiday cards — and pair it with mulled wine or mocktails.

📸 11. Family Photo Challenge

Set a timer and see who captures the best “holiday magic” photo. Winner picks dessert.

🎉 12. Board Games & Charcuterie Night

Bring out your favourites and add a festive snack board to the table for a perfect winter evening.

🎁 13. Secret Santa… with a Twist

Set a $10 limit and require the gift to be handmade, thrifted, or edible. It keeps things fun, creative, and budget-friendly.

🍷 14. Holiday Market Hop

Support local makers while you gather small treasures — handmade soaps, artisan foods, or ornaments for the tree.

🌟 15. Host a Little Kindness Mission

Write cards, donate warm clothing, or surprise a neighbour. Small acts spark big joy.

✨ Make Your Holiday Season Meaningful, Not Overwhelming

This list isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection, presence, and joy.

Download the printable PDF, choose a few ideas that inspire you, and let this season feel warm, grounded, and full of moments that matter.