More than ever, in a climate of what seems like constant uncertainty, traditions are making a big comeback—especially Christmas traditions. They're a source of comfort and nostalgia for when the world felt safer, cozier and, if we're being honest, just happier. Embracing Christmas family traditions is one way to make the holiday season merrier and brighter, and creating your own can make your loved ones feel even closer than they did before. If you're not sure where to start in terms of cementing holiday traditions and customs in your own family and friends circle, we're here to help. Some of the Christmas traditions on this list are tried and true, while others are a modern, fun twist. Find out ways to make them your own!Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.Related: History of Christmas: Origins, Why We Celebrate
40 Best Christmas Traditions To Start This Holiday Season
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2. Nab some matching family Christmas pajamas.
Whether you're celebrating together in person or on Zoom from across the planet again, wearing matching cozy PJs is one way to feel close.
4. Have a Christmas cookie decorating contest.
You can do themes like ornaments or even celebrity gingerbread men. The winner gets to eat extra!
6. Wear a matching Christmas outfit with your pet.
With Christmas sweaters and outfits for everything from dogs and cats to guinea pigs, let your furry friends get festive, too!
8. Hide a pickle ornament on your Christmas tree.
This is a Christmas tradition with a somewhat functional purpose: The first child to find the pickle ornament on the tree gets to open one of their gifts first. This lets everyone (mostly) slow down and enjoy the ambiance just a little bit longer before the cacophony of screams and mountains of shredded gift wrap appear.
10. Build a gingerbread house.
Or a gingerbread castle! Or a gingerbread hut! Or a gingerbread car! The point is to create something with the delish seasonal treat—and decorate it with all of your favorite candy and icing! Find everything you need to build an epic gingerbread anything here.Related: 120 'Happy Holidays' Wishes To Use Throughout Christmas and New Year's
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12. Visit Christmas light displays.
Here are the best Christmas light displays in each state.
14. Watch a Christmas movie marathon.
From Elf to National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation to Home Alone and It's a Wonderful Life, there is a slew of options to spark Christmas cheer from your couch.
16. Make your own Christmas cards.
Have leftover wrapping paper scraps? Get crafty! Use them to decorate homemade holiday cards and send them to those you love.
18. Visit a Christmas market.
You'll not only feel festive, but you'll support local artists and small businesses.
20. Hang mistletoe!
Whether you're single or taken, add some Christmas magic and romance to the air.
Related: 20 Virtual Christmas Games To Keep You Merry Even if You're Not Able to Travel Home for the Holidays
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22. Trim your Christmas tree.
Set a date with your family to decorate your Christmas tree together. Put on holiday music and encourage everyone to unplug for a few hours!
24. Take your pet for a photo with Santa.
If Fido is on the nice list, let them meet the man with the bag! Here are places to get snapshots with Santa near you (including digitally).
26. Put "A Book on Every Bed."
A Book on Every Bed is a tradition tied to the Family Reading Partnership. Each year, wrap a book for each child and leave it on their bed on Christmas Eve so it's the first gift they see on Christmas morning.
28. Open one present on Christmas Eve.
Whether it's a teaser for the big gift exchange in the morning or the most special item under the tree, exchanging one gift each on Christmas Eve is a great way to build anticipation for Christmas morning and inspire even more sugarplum dreams.
30. Go ice skating.
Whether you have a safe local pond or rink, lace up those skates and shred the cold ice together.Related: These 150 Best Christmas Quotes Are Guaranteed to Get You Into the Holiday Spirit
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32. Cook a holiday meal together.
Whether it's a signature sauce, a secret blend of seasonings on ham or a killer risotto, create a signature holiday recipe together and make it every year.
34. Go to a tree lighting.
You don't need to head to Rockefeller Center to see a Christmas tree lighting! Check out Christmas tree lightings in your area—and bring a mug of cocoa or cider.
36. Bake a Yule log.
This classic dessert is traditionally served after midnight mass, but we won't tell Santa if you sneak a slice early!
38. Set up a nativity scene.
Whether you make your own or nab some figurines on sale, it's a sweet way to decorate and remember the story of the first Christmas.
Set a price limit (usually around $20) and go nuts. If you want to take your Secret Santa up a notch, you could even opt for homemade gifts. Whether you're the next Martha Stewart or an amateur, having everyone create one homemade present each year will bring sweet memories...
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