The presents have been torn open, the Nutella pancakes have been devoured and you’ve FaceTimed every family member who’s not at your house, but when you look at your watch, it’s only 9 a.m. Yep, there’s something about this particular holiday that can make you feel like you’ve lived a whole life by noon, so it’s no surprise that you might find yourself searching for some fresh ideas for things to do on Christmas Day in 2022.
Good news: We’ve got you covered with a round-up full of festive, entertaining ways to pass the hours—from hosting a movie night full of your favorite Christmas movies, to passing the time with some Christmas-themed arts and crafts. Whether you’re spending the holidays with your entire extended family or it’s just you and your boo, these winter activities will have you feeling jolly all day long.
1. Tour the Christmas Lights
Once all the leaves have fallen from the trees and winter sets in, the landscape can look a little drab—especially in the absence of fresh-fallen snow. That’s precisely why the appearance of ornate and enchanting Christmas light displays is a sight for sore eyes. Savor the holiday magic as long as possible by making a point to tour your illuminated neighborhood (or one nearby) on Christmas Day. If it’s too frosty to take a tour on foot, you can always pile the family in the car for a drive-thru Christmas lights event. (Note: Hot chocolate and Christmas cookies are optional, but highly recommended.)
2. Watch a Christmas Movie

From black-and-white classics that will leave you misty-eyed under the mistletoe (It’s a Wonderful Life, anyone?) to slapstick holiday favorites that will make the whole family jolly, there are no shortage of excellent Christmas movies for any crowd to enjoy. Gather your buddies or snuggle up solo for a Christmas Day viewing experience that promises plenty of holiday vibes, and pairs well with a hot cocktail to boot. Not sure which film to choose? Consult our list of Christmas classics and you’re guaranteed to find a feel-good film for audiences of all ages.
3. Clean Up and Donate

What better way to get into the holiday spirit on Christmas Day than by giving back? But if you’re suddenly inspired to volunteer, keep in mind that most nonprofits get inundated around the holidays and actually need help at other points in the year. Instead, make room for your new loot by working your best Marie Kondo magic and then donating gently used items to organizations that need it like the Salvation Army, Dress for Success, Goodwill and Soles4Souls. Not only will it feel great to free up some space in the closet, but scientific research shows that kindness makes people happier.
4. Make It a Themed Family Game Night
Not up for a major outing on Christmas Day? We don’t blame you…after all, the fire pit is so inviting. In fact, the holiday season is a perfect occasion to cozy up and relax—and if you find yourself searching for something more to do, simply make it a game night. To keep things appropriately festive, we suggest you stick to holiday-themed games. Good news: This can be done even if your game closet isn’t already stocked with holiday options—just check out our roundup of family-friendly (and a few grown-up) Christmas games and let the play begin.
5. Cook a Christmas Day Feast
The holidays are all about being with loved ones, and what better way to bring people together than with a massive amount of mouth-watering food. You’ve had a solid month to recover from Thanksgiving, so get your oven mitts back on and round up your support team for a few hours in the kitchen. The payoff will be an Insta-worthy spread and a delicious, indulgent meal fit for the occasion and made all the better by the company you share it with.
2 thoughts on “5 Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day in 2022! Fun Christmas Activities for Kids and Adults!!”