45 Christmas Bucket List Ideas to Make the Season Magical

It’s Time to Create Your Bucket List for Christmas

Christmas is my favorite time of the year. There’s something special about the lights, the music, the smells, and the cozy feeling in the air.

But sometimes, the season goes by so fast! That’s why I like to make a Christmas bucket list. It helps me slow down and enjoy every moment.

This list is full of fun and kind things you can do in December.

Some are simple, some are silly, and some will fill your heart with joy. You don’t need to do them all—just pick the ones that feel right for you.

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1. Host a Cozy Holiday Dinner Party

I love having people over during the holidays. It doesn’t have to be fancy. You can cook something simple, or even ask friends to each bring a dish. What matters most is being together.

Light some candles, put on holiday music, and laugh a lot. You don’t need a big house—just warm hearts, good food, and comfy seats. This is a great way to feel close to people you care about.

2. Visit a Christmas Market

Christmas markets are full of magic. You can walk around, drink something warm, and look at all the pretty lights. I love the smell of cookies and cinnamon in the air.

You might find handmade gifts or try tasty snacks. It’s also fun just to watch the people and feel the joy. If you go at night, the lights sparkle even more.

3. Volunteer at a Local Shelter or Food Bank

One year, I helped at a food bank, and I still think about it. Giving time means so much. You don’t have to do anything big—just show up and help.

You can sort food, serve a meal, or just smile at someone who needs kindness. It reminds you that the holidays are not just about gifts. They’re about giving love, too.

4. Write Handwritten Holiday Cards to 10 People

Writing cards by hand is special. I like picking out cute cards and using fun pens. It feels nice to sit down and think about each person.

I write something simple and kind. You don’t have to write a lot—just “thinking of you” can mean so much. When someone gets your card, it might be the best part of their day.

5. Watch a Christmas Movie Marathon

I always set aside one day just for holiday movies. I get cozy in my pajamas, make popcorn, and turn on all the twinkly lights. I watch my old favorites first—sometimes I even cry a little (happy tears!).

Then I try one or two new ones. You can do it with family, friends, or just by yourself. It’s a simple way to feel holiday joy.

6. Create a New Holiday Tradition

Starting something new is fun! One year, I began baking cookies on Christmas Eve, and now I do it every year.

Think about what you love—maybe it’s reading a story, going on a walk, or drinking hot chocolate with candy canes.

The best traditions are the ones that feel right to you. And you don’t need to wait for anyone’s rules—just make your own magic.

7. Take a Snowy Hike or Winter Walk

I love walking in the snow. It’s quiet, soft, and feels like the world is slower. You can bundle up in your warmest clothes and take deep breaths of cold air.

It clears your mind and makes you feel alive. Try it after a fresh snowfall—it looks like a storybook. Bring a friend or go alone with some music in your ears.

8. Try a Christmas Recipe from Another Culture

One Christmas, I made a Swedish dessert called “lussekatter”—it was new and so fun! You can look up a recipe online from a country you’re curious about.

Try something like tamales, stollen, or panettone. Cooking a new dish can feel like a little adventure. It’s also a great way to learn and connect with the world.

9. Attend a Candlelight Christmas Eve Service

Going to a candlelight service is peaceful and beautiful. The lights are low, the music is soft, and everyone holds a candle. I always feel calm and full of love when I go.

Even if you don’t go to church a lot, this night feels different. It’s a time to pause, breathe, and remember the heart of the season. So, why not add this to your Christmas bucket list?

10. Take Professional or DIY Holiday Photos

Photos are such a fun way to capture memories. You can dress up fancy or wear silly hats. I’ve done both! If you can’t get pro photos, just use your phone and take them at home.

Use a plain wall or your tree as a backdrop. Add fairy lights or props. You’ll love looking back at the pictures next year.

You might also like: 29 Calming Christmas Self-Care Ideas to Care for Yourself

11. Organize a Secret Santa with Friends or Coworkers

Secret Santa is one of my favorite games. Everyone picks a name and buys a small gift for that person. I love the surprise part—trying to guess who gave what.

You don’t have to spend much, just something sweet or funny. You can even make your gift if you like crafts. It’s all about having fun and feeling connected.

12. Donate Warm Clothes or Blankets

I once cleaned my closet and found so many warm things I didn’t wear. I gave them to a shelter, and it felt really good. Someone out there needs that coat or blanket more than I do.

You can ask your friends to join too. Just make sure the items are clean and still in good shape. Giving warmth is a kind way to share love.

13. Read a Classic Holiday Book

Every year, I read “The Night Before Christmas” before bed. It’s short but so magical. You can pick any classic story, like “A Christmas Carol” or even a book with fun pictures.

Reading helps me slow down and feel cozy. Grab a blanket, turn on a lamp, and let yourself get lost in the words. It’s a small but lovely tradition.

14. Build a Gingerbread House

Gingerbread houses are sticky, messy, and totally awesome. I buy a kit, but you can bake your own if you want. I set out lots of candy and icing, then just have fun.

You don’t have to be perfect—my roof always slides off! But I laugh a lot and sometimes make up stories about the little house. It’s a sweet way to spend time.

15. Decorate Your Home with Intention and Care

This year, I decorated slower than usual. I picked things that made me smile, not just filled space. I lit a candle, put on music, and made it feel special.

You don’t need lots of stuff—just things that bring joy. A handmade ornament or a photo can mean more than fancy lights. Make your space feel like love lives there.

16. Go Ice Skating Outdoors

Outdoor skating feels like a movie scene. The air is cold, your cheeks get pink, and there’s music playing. I wobble a lot, but I always laugh and feel happy.

You can hold hands with a friend or just skate in circles. Don’t worry if you’re not great at it. The fun part is just being out there in the winter air.

17. Take a Day Off Just for Holiday Self-Care

One day, I stayed in bed with tea and no plans—and it was the best gift to myself. The holidays get busy, and sometimes we forget to breathe.

Pick one day to stay home, rest, and do things you love. Read, nap, eat cookies—whatever fills your heart. You’ll feel better after and ready to enjoy everything more.

18. Reflect on the Past Year in a Gratitude Journal

I keep a little notebook, and near Christmas, I write down what I’m thankful for. It helps me remember the good things, even if the year was hard.

You don’t need fancy words. Just say what made you smile or feel proud. Write about people, moments, or even small wins. Looking back helps you move forward with hope.

19. Create a Christmas Playlist from Different Decades

This is one of my favorite things to do! I pick songs from the ’50s, ’80s, and even the ‘2000s. Some are slow, some are funny, and some make me dance.

I play them while wrapping gifts or baking. It makes everything more fun. Try mixing in some songs you’ve never heard before. You might find a new favorite!

20. Explore Festive Light Displays in Your Area

I love driving around at night just to see the lights. Some houses go all out, and it’s like magic! You can bring hot cocoa and make a game of it—count how many snowmen or reindeer you spot.

If there’s a big light show in town, even better. You don’t have to spend a dime—just enjoy the glow and sparkle all around.

21. Make Mulled Wine or Hot Spiced Cider

I love making the house smell like cinnamon and apples. I warm up apple cider on the stove and toss in some cloves, cinnamon sticks, and orange slices.

If I want something grown-up, I make mulled wine the same way. You can sip it while watching movies or reading. It also makes a great treat to share with friends when they visit.

22. Make Ornaments/Wreath from Scratch

Last year, I made paper ornaments with string and glitter, and it was so fun. You don’t need to be crafty. You can use pinecones, ribbons, buttons, or anything you have.

I even made a wreath from old socks once—no joke! Making stuff with your hands feels really good. And when you hang it up, you’ll smile and think, “I made that.”

23. Invite Someone without Plans to Your Holiday Celebration

Not everyone has a place to go for the holidays. I always try to think of someone who might be alone. I’ve invited a neighbor before, and we ended up laughing for hours.

If you want to try this Christmas bucket list idea, you don’t need to throw a big party. Just offering a seat at your table means a lot. One small invite can change someone’s whole day.

24. Create a Vision Board for the New Year

This is one of my favorite quiet things to do. I cut out pictures from magazines, print words that inspire me, and glue them on a board or paper.

I think about how I want to feel next year—strong, happy, loved. You don’t need to be perfect or neat. Just be real. Hang it where you can see it and let it guide you.

25. Learn How Christmas Is Celebrated in Another Country

I once looked up how they celebrate Christmas in the Philippines, and it blew my mind—they have lantern festivals and start celebrating in September!

Pick a country, search how they celebrate, and share what you learn with friends. It’s cool to see how others share joy. It reminds you that Christmas is bigger than just what we know.

26. Go Caroling or Sing at Home with Loved Ones

I don’t have a great voice, but I love singing Christmas songs. Once, my friends and I went door to door and people actually smiled and clapped.

If that’s not your thing, just sing at home. Turn up the music, grab a hairbrush mic, and sing like no one’s watching. Music makes the season feel brighter.

27. Make a List of 12 Things You’re Thankful for in 2025

I like doing this near the end of the year. I grab a notebook and write down 12 good things from the year, one for each month. They don’t have to be big.

One year, I wrote “the time I saw a double rainbow.” It helps you see the good stuff you might forget. Try it. You’ll feel warm inside.

28. Attend a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

There’s something magical about everyone counting down together… 3, 2, 1—and then the lights come on! I try to go to one each year.

People cheer, music plays, and the lights shine so bright. It’s a fun way to feel part of something special. Bring cocoa and maybe someone’s hand to hold.

29. Bake Christmas Cookies and Deliver Them to Neighbors

Nothing says “I care” like warm cookies. I make a big batch, wrap them in little bags, and leave them at my neighbors’ doors. You don’t have to know them well.

Just knock, smile, and say, “Happy Holidays!” I promise—it’ll make their day. And your kitchen will smell amazing too.

30. Wear Matching Christmas Pajamas

One year, my whole family wore red plaid pajamas—and the pictures were hilarious! You can match with friends, pets, or even just yourself in a mirror selfie.

It’s silly, fun, and makes great memories. Don’t worry about looking perfect. The point is to laugh and feel cozy together.

You might also like: 70 Festive Christmas Journal Prompts for Adults

31. Decorate a Real or Artificial Christmas Tree

Whether it’s a big real tree or a tiny fake one, decorating it is the best part. I play music and unwrap the ornaments slowly. Each one has a story.

Some are old, some are new, and some are just silly. Add lights, a topper, maybe some popcorn garland. There’s no right way—just your way.

32. Hang Stockings—Even if Just for Fun or Tradition

I still hang a stocking every year, even if I fill it myself. There’s something special about seeing it there. You can hang one for each person, or even for pets.

You don’t need a fireplace—just some hooks or tape. Little treats, notes, or candy make it extra fun. It brings out the kid in you.

33. Set Up an Advent Calendar for Yourself or a Friend

I made one for my best friend last year—just little notes and candy in envelopes. You can buy one or make your own. Each day feels like a mini-surprise.

It’s a fun way to count down to Christmas and build joy a little at a time. You don’t need to spend much. Just add love.

34. Write a Letter to Santa Just for Nostalgia

Yes, I still do this sometimes! I write to Santa about what I’m dreaming of—not gifts, but peace or fun or hope. It makes me feel young and happy.

You don’t have to send it. Just write it and smile. If you have kids, do it with them. It’s a sweet moment to share.

35. Host a Christmas Trivia Night

One night, I made a trivia game with questions about holiday movies, songs, and history. We laughed so hard trying to guess.

You can do it with friends in person or even online. Make teams, give out tiny prizes, and don’t take it too seriously. It’s all about the joy and laughter.

36. Set Up a Hot Chocolate Bar at Home

I love this idea so much. I set out mugs, marshmallows, candy canes, sprinkles, and whipped cream. Everyone makes their own cup.

You can even add cinnamon or caramel. It’s a great thing to do on a movie night or after coming in from the cold. It’s easy, cozy, and fun for all ages.

37. Decorate Your Car with Holiday Cheer

I once put reindeer antlers on my car and a red nose on the front—it made people smile at stoplights!

As part of your Christmas bucket list, you can hang tinsel inside, play holiday music, or even add window clings. It makes errands feel more fun. Spread cheer on the road—it’s like a rolling bit of Christmas.

38. Visit a Tree Farm and Cut Your Own Tree

I’ll never forget the first time I cut my own tree. We walked through rows of pine, picked the best one, and sawed it down ourselves.

There’s just something special about the smell and the adventure. Many farms have cocoa and music too. It turns getting a tree into a full-on memory.

39. Leave Cookies and Milk Out for Santa—Even as an Adult

I do this every year, just for fun. I bake cookies, pour some milk, and leave a silly note.

It reminds me of being little and believing in magic. Even if no one else sees it, it makes me smile. Sometimes I even eat one myself and say, “Thanks, Santa!”

40. Wear an Ugly Christmas Sweater in Public

One time I wore a sweater with a light-up reindeer nose, and people kept laughing and waving. Ugly sweaters are fun because they’re meant to be silly.

You can wear one to a party or just to the store. The uglier, the better. It’s a good way to spread smiles.

You might also like: 115 Bucket List Ideas for Winter to Enjoy the Season

41. Recreate a Childhood Christmas Photo

This one always makes me laugh. Find an old Christmas photo from when you were little—maybe you’re opening gifts, baking cookies, or sitting with Santa.

Then try to do the same photo now! Wear something similar, strike the same pose, and maybe include the same people if you can.

It’s silly and sweet at the same time. You’ll love looking at the before and after side by side.

42. Make Snow Angels or Have a Snowball Fight

One snow day, I ran outside and flopped on my back to make a snow angel. I didn’t care how old I was—it felt so fun!

You can grab a friend or two and throw snowballs, build forts, or just play around. Be safe, but don’t hold back. Snow brings out the kid in everyone. You’ll come back inside cold and smiling.

43. Light a Christmas-Scented Candle Each Evening

Lighting a candle each night feels special. I pick ones that smell like pine, cinnamon, or cookies. When I light one, I take a deep breath and let the day slow down.

Even just ten minutes with soft music and a warm scent can change my mood. Try it while reading or before bed. It’s a small way to make each night feel cozy.

44. Get a Personalized Christmas Ornament to Mark the Year

Each year, I buy or make one ornament that says something about that year. One year it was a tiny book, another year it was a mini mask (yep, 2020).

You can add the year or write a short note on the back. Over time, your tree will tell your life story.

45. Leave a Christmas Card or Treat for Your Mail Carrier or Delivery Drivers

They work so hard, especially in December. I leave a little card or a snack with a note that says “thank you.” Once, I left hot cocoa packets, and the driver actually waved and smiled at me.

It’s an easy way to show kindness. You can tape the note to your door or mailbox. They’ll remember that someone cared.

What’s on Your Christmas Bucket List?