12 Homestead-Inspired Christmas Traditions to Start This Year

The holiday season is a special time for us, and we love finding ways to make it even more memorable. This year, we’re thinking about starting some new homestead Christmas traditions that feel cozy and connected. It’s not about doing a million things, but picking a few that really stick and bring joy to our family. We want to create lasting memories, and these ideas seem like a good place to start.

Key Takeaways

Starting new homestead Christmas traditions can make the holiday season more meaningful and create lasting family memories.
Simple activities like reading Christmas books daily or making homemade ornaments can be easily incorporated into your holiday routine.
Baking festive treats, decorating with lights, and enjoying hot chocolate together are classic ways to embrace the holiday spirit.
Giving back, like shopping for a food bank donation or making homemade cards, adds a thoughtful dimension to the season.
Engaging in activities like building gingerbread houses or attending a Christmas play offers fun, shared experiences for the whole family.

1. Read 25 Books Of Christmas

We love the idea of making reading a special part of our holiday season. It’s a simple way to add some magic and learning to the days leading up to Christmas. The concept is to have 25 books, one for each day from December 1st through Christmas Day, ready to be opened and read together. This doesn’t mean you have to buy 25 new books every year! We often use books we already own, borrow from the library, or even re-wrap books from previous years. It’s a fantastic way to revisit favorite stories or discover new ones.

Here’s how we make it work:

Gather Your Books: Start collecting books throughout the year. Look for holiday-themed stories, winter tales, or even books that teach valuable lessons. You can find great options at thrift stores, library sales, or even get recommendations for books for aspiring homesteaders. We found some great winter reads on a guide to 25 winter books.
Wrap Them Up: Each book gets its own wrapping paper. This adds to the excitement of opening a new story each day.
Daily Reading Ritual: Every evening, one child gets to pick a wrapped book from under the tree. We gather together, unwrap the book, and read it aloud before bedtime. It’s a cozy way to wind down the day.

This tradition is wonderful because it encourages a love for reading and provides quiet, quality time together. It’s a break from the usual holiday hustle and bustle, focusing instead on stories and imagination. We’ve found that varying the types of books keeps things interesting. Some might be picture books for the younger ones, chapter books for older kids, or even non-fiction books that tie into our homesteading interests. It’s a flexible tradition that can be adapted to fit any family’s reading level and preferences.

2. Make Homemade Christmas Ornaments

We love getting our hands messy and creating our own special ornaments each year. It’s a fantastic way to spend time together, and the results are keepsakes we can cherish for holidays to come. Plus, it’s a great way to teach the kids a little patience and give them a chance to show off their creative side.

There are so many fun ideas out there, but here are a few of our favorites:

Salt Dough Ornaments: These are super simple to make. We just mix flour, salt, and water, then cut out shapes with cookie cutters. After baking and cooling, the real fun begins with painting and decorating!
Dried Citrus Ornaments: Slice up some oranges or grapefruits thinly, dehydrate them until they’re dry, and then string them up. They look so pretty hanging on the tree and smell amazing.
Cinnamon Stick Ornaments: Grab a few cinnamon sticks, tie them together with some twine, maybe add a sprig of greenery or a little bow, and you’ve got a rustic, fragrant ornament in minutes.

Making ornaments together is a true bonding experience. Parents learn to be patient and give up a little control while the kiddos learn a new skill and have fun with mom & dad. There are tons of different homemade ornament tutorials, but these are our favorites.

It’s a wonderful way to add personal touches to our tree and create memories that last.

3. Bake Cookies and Other Christmas Treats

There’s a special kind of magic that happens when our kitchen fills with the warm, sweet scent of holiday baking. We love getting everyone together to whip up some festive goodies. It’s a tradition that really brings us closer and creates delicious memories we can taste.

We usually pick a few recipes to try each year. Sometimes we stick to the classics, and other times we experiment with new flavors. Baking together is a fantastic way to spend quality time as a family.

Here are some of our favorite things to make:

Sugar Cookies: You can’t go wrong with a classic sugar cookie. We love cutting them into fun shapes and decorating them with colorful icing. These are always a hit!
Peppermint Bark: This is a simple yet elegant treat that always disappears fast.
No-Bake Treats: For those days when we want something quick and easy, no-bake options like chocolate oatmeal cookies or Oreo balls are perfect.

We often bake a big batch and freeze some for later. It’s so nice to have homemade treats ready when unexpected guests drop by or for when we just need a little holiday cheer. Planning ahead can make baking less stressful. We try to decide on our recipes a week or two in advance so we can gather all the ingredients. This also helps us avoid last-minute trips to the store, which can be chaotic during the holiday season.

4. Complete An Advent Calendar

Counting down the days to Christmas can feel like a magical journey, and an advent calendar is a perfect way to mark that passage. We love using ours not just to see how many days are left, but as a daily nudge to connect and reflect as a family.

There are so many fun ways to do advent calendars. Some families stick with the classic chocolate ones, which are always a hit. Others like to fill theirs with little surprises, like tiny ornaments, craft supplies, or even small books. We’ve found that a calendar with a Bible verse and a small treat or activity for each day really helps us focus on the meaning of the season.

Here are a few ideas we’ve tried or heard about:

Scripture and Treat: Each day, open a numbered envelope that has a Bible verse about Christmas and a small chocolate coin or a sticker.
Activity Countdown: Instead of a physical item, each day reveals a simple family activity. This could be anything from baking cookies, watching a Christmas movie, making homemade cards, or going to see holiday lights.
Themed Gift Boxes: Wrap small, themed gifts that the kids can open one by one. Last year, we did a "dressing up" theme, and this year we’re thinking about a "crafting" theme.
Book Advent: Wrap up a Christmas-themed book for each day leading up to Christmas. We love revisiting old favorites and discovering new stories.

The key is to find a rhythm that works for your family. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. The goal is to create a shared experience that builds anticipation and joy throughout December.

5. Create A Hot Chocolate Bar

Who doesn’t love a warm mug of hot chocolate when it’s chilly outside? We like to make it a whole event by setting up a hot chocolate bar. It’s super simple to put together and makes a cozy addition to our holiday season. We usually set it up on a small table or even a sturdy cart so it’s accessible all month long.

This tradition helps us all appreciate what we have and remember the spirit of giving. It’s a simple act, but it feels really good to contribute. Plus, it’s a good reminder that Christmas is about more than just presents; it’s about helping others. We’ve found that involving the kids in the process makes them more invested and understanding of the importance of charitable donations.

Here’s what we typically include:

Hot Chocolate Base: We usually have a big batch of homemade hot chocolate ready to go, but you could also use good quality store-bought mix.
Toppings Galore: This is where the fun really happens! We put out bowls of mini marshmallows, whipped cream (from a can is fine!), chocolate shavings, crushed candy canes, caramel sauce, and sprinkles.
Fun Add-ins: Sometimes we’ll add things like cinnamon sticks, a dash of nutmeg, or even a splash of peppermint extract for extra flavor.

It’s a simple way to add a little extra magic to our evenings, especially after playing outside in the cold. We just let everyone customize their own mug. It’s a hit with the kids and honestly, we adults enjoy it just as much!

6. Go See Christmas Lights

There’s something truly magical about driving around your neighborhood or a nearby town to see all the festive Christmas lights. We love making an evening of it, piling into the car with a thermos of hot cocoa and maybe some snacks. It’s a simple tradition, but it really gets us in the holiday spirit.

We usually plan our route a bit beforehand, looking up local neighborhoods or parks known for their elaborate displays. Sometimes we’ll even make a game out of it, like seeing who can spot the most inflatable Santas or the most creative light arrangements. If you can find a place where you can actually walk through the lights, that’s even better – it really lets you soak in the atmosphere.

Here are a few ideas to make your light-seeing adventure extra special:

Map it out: Do a quick search for "Christmas lights near me" or check your local town’s website. Many places have lists or even maps of the best spots.
Set the mood: Create a holiday playlist to sing along to in the car. Christmas carols are a must!
Capture the glow: Bring a camera or make sure your phone is charged. You’ll want to snap some pictures of the dazzling displays.
Cozy up: Pack blankets and hot drinks to make the car ride more comfortable, especially if it’s chilly.

This tradition is a wonderful way to enjoy the season without spending a lot of money. It’s all about the shared experience and the simple joy of twinkling lights.

7. Build A Gingerbread House

Building a gingerbread house is a classic holiday activity that we love to bring into our home. It’s more than just a fun craft; it’s a chance to get creative and maybe a little messy together. We usually start with a kit, which makes the construction part much easier, especially with younger kids. But honestly, even if you just use graham crackers and some icing, the process is what matters.

We find that having a few different types of candy on hand really makes it special. Think gumdrops, candy canes, peppermints, and maybe some sprinkles. It’s amazing how much joy a few bags of sweets can bring!

Here’s a simple breakdown of how we approach it:

Gather your supplies: This includes the gingerbread pieces (either pre-made or baked from scratch), icing (we like to make our own royal icing – it holds up best!), and a variety of candies for decorating. If you’re looking for a solid dough recipe that won’t spread, check out this gingerbread dough recipe.
Set up your workspace: Cover your table with newspaper or a plastic tablecloth. It makes cleanup so much easier.
Assemble the house: Use the icing as your "glue." Let the kids help hold the pieces together while the icing sets a bit.
Decorate away! This is where the real fun begins. Let everyone go wild with the candies. There’s no right or wrong way to do it.

Building a gingerbread house can be a bit tricky, but with a good plan and some patience, it’s a rewarding project. Don’t stress too much about perfection; the memories made are the real prize.

8. Pack Christmas Eve Boxes

We love the idea of packing Christmas Eve boxes for the whole family. It’s a wonderful way to build anticipation and create a special moment right before the big day. The concept is simple: each family member gets a box filled with goodies to enjoy on Christmas Eve. This tradition really helps us slow down and connect as a family on that special night.

We usually fill our boxes with a few key things:

New Pajamas: Slipping into fresh, cozy pajamas on Christmas Eve just feels right. It’s a simple comfort that makes the night feel extra special.
A Festive Treat: This could be anything from hot chocolate mix and marshmallows to some homemade cookies or a special candy. It’s a little something sweet to enjoy together.
An Activity: We often include a new board game, a puzzle, or even a Christmas-themed movie. This gives us something fun to do as a family after we’ve opened our boxes.
A Book: Sometimes we’ll add a new Christmas book to read aloud, or perhaps a chapter book that we can start together. You can find great options at thrift stores or library sales.

The best part is that these boxes can be completely customized to your family’s preferences and budget. You can go all out with individual gifts or keep it simple with shared items. We’ve found that even small, thoughtful items can bring a lot of joy. It’s not about the quantity of gifts, but the shared experience and the excitement it builds for Christmas morning. It’s a tradition that really helps us slow down and connect as a family on that special night. We’ve even included some homemade Christmas gifts in the past.

9. Make Homemade Christmas Cards

We love sending cards to family and friends, but buying them feels a bit impersonal, doesn’t it? This year, let’s get crafty and make our own Christmas cards. It’s a fantastic way to add a personal touch and get the whole family involved in spreading some holiday cheer.

Gather up some cardstock, markers, crayons, glitter, stickers, maybe even some old magazines for collage elements. The kids can go wild with their imaginations! We’ve found that simple designs often turn out the best. Think about handprints turned into reindeer, or a snowy scene made with cotton balls. The most important thing is the thought and love that goes into them.

Here are a few ideas to get us started:

Fingerprint Lights: Dip little fingers in paint and make colorful "lights" on a drawn string.
Salt Dough Ornaments as Cards: Make small salt dough shapes, bake them, and then write a message on the back before tying them onto a card.
Collage Creations: Cut out festive shapes and images from old wrapping paper or magazines and glue them onto the card front.
Hand-Drawn Winter Scenes: Encourage simple drawings of snowmen, trees, or cozy houses.

Making cards by hand takes a little extra time, but the joy it brings to the recipient is totally worth it. It’s a tradition that connects us to loved ones, no matter how far apart we are.

10. Go See A Christmas Play

We love finding local Christmas plays to attend. It’s such a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit and support community arts. Many towns have school or church productions that are really quite good, and they’re often very affordable, sometimes even free!

Going to a play can be a really special outing for the whole family. It’s a chance to dress up a little, enjoy some festive entertainment, and create lasting memories together. Plus, it’s a nice break from all the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping and decorating.

Here are a few ideas for making this tradition even more special:

Check local listings: Look for performances at community theaters, schools, and churches. Sometimes libraries even host smaller holiday shows.
Consider the age group: Pick a play that will be engaging for everyone in your family. Shorter shows or ones with familiar holiday stories are usually a hit with younger kids.
Make it an event: Pair your theater trip with a special dinner beforehand or hot cocoa afterward. It turns a simple outing into a full-blown holiday experience.

This tradition is a fantastic way to immerse ourselves in the festive atmosphere and create cherished memories.

11. Play Secret Santa

We love the idea of Secret Santa, but we’ve adapted it for our family to make it a bit more about thoughtfulness and a little less about the pressure of finding the perfect gift. Instead of a big group, we usually do it within our immediate family or with a few close cousins. Everyone draws a name, and the goal is to pick out a small, meaningful gift for that person. It’s not about spending a lot of money; it’s about showing you paid attention to what that person likes or needs throughout the year.

The real fun comes on Christmas morning when everyone opens their surprise gift. It’s a great way to encourage our kids to think about others and practice a bit of stealth in their gift-giving. We often set a small budget, maybe $10-$15, to keep things light and focused on the gesture.

Here’s how we usually set it up:

Draw Names: We write everyone’s name on slips of paper and put them in a hat. Each person draws one name – making sure not to draw their own!
Gift Brainstorm: We encourage everyone to think about the person whose name they drew. What are their hobbies? What have they talked about wanting? Even a favorite candy or a cozy pair of socks can be a perfect Secret Santa gift.
Wrap It Up: Gifts are wrapped secretly and labeled with the recipient’s name, but not the giver’s.
The Big Reveal: On Christmas morning, we all exchange our Secret Santa gifts. It’s always a joy to see the surprise and delight on everyone’s faces.

This tradition is a wonderful way to teach kids about generosity and considering others’ feelings, all while keeping the holiday fun and manageable.

12. Shop For A Food Bank Donation

This time of year, it’s easy to get caught up in all the festive preparations and gift-giving. But we like to take a moment to remember that not everyone is as fortunate, and there are families in our own community who could use a little extra help. A tradition we’ve started is to make a special trip to the grocery store with the kids, specifically to pick out items for our local food bank.

It’s a simple yet powerful way to teach them about generosity and community spirit. We usually give them a small budget and a list of needed items. Sometimes we check the food bank’s website beforehand to see what they’re short on, like canned vegetables, pasta, or peanut butter. Other times, we just let the kids pick out a few things they think other families would enjoy.

Here’s how we usually do it:

Make a List: We check what the food bank needs most. Common requests include non-perishable goods like canned soups, beans, rice, pasta, cereal, and peanut butter.
Set a Budget: We decide on a spending limit to keep our shopping focused.
Shop Together: We take the kids to the store and let them choose items from our list.
Deliver with Gratitude: We drop off the donations as a family and talk about how this small act can make a big difference.

This tradition really helps us focus on the spirit of giving and makes the holiday season feel more meaningful. It’s a good reminder that Christmas is about more than just receiving; it’s about helping others.

Let’s Make This Christmas Special

So there you have it – a whole bunch of ideas to get our holiday season feeling a little more like home. We know life gets busy, and sometimes it feels like there’s no time for anything extra. But these homestead-inspired traditions aren’t about adding more stress; they’re about finding simple joys and making memories together. Whether it’s baking up a storm, crafting ornaments, or just taking a moment to look at the lights, we hope you found something that sparks a little Christmas magic for your family this year. Let’s embrace these traditions and make this Christmas one to remember!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can we make starting new traditions easier for our family?

We’ve found that picking just one or two new traditions each year is the best way to start. Trying to do too much at once can feel overwhelming. It’s more important to enjoy the traditions we choose and make them special for our family. Think about what your family loves most and start there!

What if we don’t have a lot of time for crafts?

We get it! Life is busy. Instead of complicated crafts, we focus on simple activities. For example, making ornaments can be as easy as painting salt dough cutouts or decorating plain ones we already have. The goal is spending time together, not perfection.

Are these traditions expensive to start?

Not at all! Many of these ideas use things we already have. Reading books from the library, using items around the house for crafts, or baking with pantry staples keeps costs down. We also love donating to food banks, which is a wonderful way to give back without spending a lot.

How do we get everyone in the family excited about new traditions?

We like to make a ‘December bucket list’ together. This is just a list of all the fun things we hope to do during the month. It’s a great way to involve everyone and see what activities spark their interest. The things we enjoy most might become our new favorite traditions!

What’s the best way to start the ‘Read 25 Books of Christmas’ tradition?

We don’t buy 25 new books every year! We often use books we already own, borrow from the library, or even re-wrap books from previous years. It’s a fantastic way to revisit favorite stories or discover new ones. The important part is setting aside time to read together each day.

Can we adapt these traditions if our family has different interests?

Absolutely! The beauty of these homestead-inspired traditions is that they’re flexible. For instance, instead of a gingerbread house, we’ve built gingerbread chicken coops or barns. The main idea is to have fun and connect as a family, so feel free to tweak any activity to fit what your family enjoys most.