How do you make holidays special?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:We switched it up this year and had a white elephant instead of the usual gift exchange (15 people ranging in age 12-72). We also played a fun game (Guess Who, 5 Second Rule), which was the first time that’s happened during our Christmas get together! We also had heavy apps instead of a traditional formal dinner. Next year we may plan to have a gingerbread decorating contest during the get together. It was nice spending time together (our usual focus is food and presents), and everyone liked how we switched it up this year.

Cocktail/mocktail or dessert-making contest
family walk or hike
ice skating

Sounds fun!

[Anonymous]

OP if you're family is all local so you can also see them the rest of the year, why not travel for pay off the holidays? Even maybe with some other family members? I did that with my parents pre-kids and it was really nice.

Otherwise you have some good suggestions here like games but I agree with a PP that the "magic" is really kids or getting to see extended family that you wouldn't otherwise see.

[Anonymous]

I decorate like crazy and cook more that week than I do the rest of the year.