6 Alternative Christmas Eve Traditions

Christmas Eve is one of my favourite moments of the festive season. It's the perfect night to relax - the shopping is sorted, the food is bought, and it's finally time to slow down, relax and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Whether you're looking to start a new tradition this year or just want to try something different, we've pulled together six alternative Christmas Eve ideas that will help keep everyone entertained.

1. Bake something festive

Whether you're putting together an elaborate gingerbread house, or simply making some little biscuits for Father Christmas, baking some treats on Christmas Eve is the perfect way to involve the whole family in the festivities.

2. Visit the local Christmas light displays

Some of the fondest Christmas Eve memories I have are bundling up in the back of the car to drive around and see all the local Christmas light displays. You could even turn it into a fun game of family Bingo! Race to see who can spot Santa, a Reindeer or a Christmas Tree first!

3. Have a family movie night

Create your own cinema at home with some popcorn and your favourite festive film. You could download our FREE Printable Family Movie Night Tickets for that extra special touch.

4. Open an early present

A common practice in Europe is to open presents on Christmas Eve. And while we're not suggesting you give up on Christmas Day presents altogether, you could choose one special gift each to open on Christmas Eve for a special family tradition.

5. A Christmas Eve Box

A Christmas Eve Box is usually filled with a whole range of cheerful treats. For example, a festive read, some new PJ's and something edible. If you're looking for some more inspiration we've added a little checklist of ideas here that you can use as a starting point.

6. Treasure Hunt

Crack out those chocolate coins and make a treasure hunt your new Christmas Eve tradition! Or if you're looking to avoid sugar, you could create a scavenger hunt with clues.