If you’re tired of the traditional advent calendars, the Elf on the Shelf, or the daily book unwrapping, there’s a new holiday trend that’s taking the festive season by storm: the Christmas box. This concept is one that many families are embracing, and for good reason.
While I adore Christmas, the idea of managing the Elf on the Shelf antics is simply overwhelming. Who has time to create elaborate scenarios for a little plastic elf, especially with everything else on your plate? With the ongoing pandemic, frequent trips to stores for Elf accessories are a definite no-go for me!
Similarly, advent calendars often leave much to be desired. Those cheap plastic trinkets usually end up broken or tossed aside, and the candy varieties? Not worth it. If I’m treating my kids to chocolate, it better be something I want to indulge in too! Plus, with four children, spending over $30 on toy-filled advent calendars is just unrealistic.
Some families opt for a daily Christmas book reading, which is a lovely idea—if you have access to used books. Most of us aren’t rushing out to buy 24 new holiday-themed stories! Enter the Christmas box: a fun and flexible way to get everyone into the festive spirit.
The contents of your Christmas box can vary based on your children’s ages and interests. Some parents present a box at the start of the holiday season, while others save it for Christmas Eve or anywhere in between. Regardless of when you choose to reveal it, the aim is to spread holiday cheer.
This is the perfect chance to gift matching family pajamas, cozy socks, or festive slippers. After all, who doesn’t want that classic photo in front of the Christmas tree? This year, my family will be sporting plaid pajamas that can be worn all winter long—because I’m one of those people who can’t stand Christmas-themed PJs after the holiday.
Snacks are essential too! Include hot chocolate, seasonal treats like candy canes, or the family’s favorite popcorn. To elevate the experience, consider giving each person their own festive mug or snack bowl. And don’t forget something special for the adults—perhaps a sparkling drink to enjoy.
Every year, my kids receive a new ornament—another great addition to the Christmas box. Presenting it as soon as the tree is up allows us to enjoy the ornaments this holiday season rather than storing them away for the next year.
You could also include a new holiday movie or a classic family board game. Charades is a fantastic choice for family fun, and a fresh deck of Uno cards is always a hit! The sillier the game, the better.
Lastly, think about including a Christmas-themed book. There are plenty of popular series with festive titles, or you could go for a classic. This year, my children will enjoy holiday-themed Mad Libs or Would You Rather? books. Keeping them entertained is key—boredom often leads to sibling squabbles!
Remember, the contents of the box don’t need to be extravagant or costly. If matching Christmas pajamas are out of the budget, cozy socks are a wonderful alternative, often available for just a few dollars. Instead of individual treats, buy one larger container of snacks and share!
If individual boxes aren’t your style, consider creating a family Christmas box with shared items like a new ornament, favorite snacks, and a movie or game for everyone to enjoy together. Unveil it when you decorate the tree, the day after Thanksgiving, or even on Christmas Eve!
And don’t forget about the joy of giving! With many of us unable to see loved ones due to the pandemic, consider making and shipping a Christmas box to friends or family. Everyone loves receiving a surprise in the mail! This year, I prepared a box for my parents filled with maple coffee for my dad, beautiful Christmas cards, and a lovely ornament for my mom.
Treat yourself this season too! I’ve picked up a few items for myself while shopping—like berry nail polish and cozy slippers. Why not throw them into a box for a little self-care?
The Christmas box is a delightful new holiday tradition that brings joy to the entire family, ensuring that no one forgets to reward themselves during the busy season.