The Christmas Eve Box is becoming an increasingly popular tradition. It’s a nice way to keep little ones occupied on Christmas Eve and to share in some family fun. There are many ways to tailor the tradition to suit your family, and all ages and budgets.
The Box
The ‘box’ can be something as simple as a special gift bag, drawstring bag or a shoebox with festive wrapping. A range of inexpensive boxes can be found at supermarkets and bargain shops, or you could choose a special bespoke box. You might like for each family member to have their own box, or to have one large family box.
The Contents
You can keep it simple with a few small toys, games and treats. Things that keep the kids busy and that bring the family together are favourites. There’s no need to renew everything each year, there may be some things that can be used again and form part of your tradition and memories. There are a few ideas to choose from below.
What’s in the Box?
Christmas-themed
- Mince pie & milk for Santa
- Carrot for reindeer
- Reindeer food & torch (to help spread the food outside)
- Stockings to hang up
- New bauble for the tree / other decoration
- Believe bell (like Polar Express) or jingly bells
- A magic key for Santa
- A letter from Santa
- Elf report card
- Stationary to write ‘thank you notes’
Entertainment
- Christmas-themed book & DVD
- Family board game / activities (snap, Twister, Pictionary, Wii games etc)
- Craft activities / colouring book / puzzle book / stickers
- Supplies to make a Christmas decoration
- Small Lego set
- Small toys / cuddly toy / joke toys (whoopee cushion?!)
- Christmas figures (e.g. Happyland set)
- Wooden/plastic Christmas dinner set
- Bath bomb / bath toy
- Novelty toothbrush
Food & Drink
- Hot chocolate in Christmas-themed mug
- Snowman soup (hot chocolate, marshmallows & candy cane to stir)
- Chocolate coins (coin hunt optional!)
- Ingredients to make cakes/cookies (or pre-made mix), cookie cutters
- Cookie / gingerbread man / Christmas-themed chocs / favourite sweets
- Popcorn for movie
Clothing
- Fluffy or Christmas-themed socks
- Slippers
- Pyjamas
- Christmas jumper
- Christmas day outfit
