How to Have the Happiest Holiday Break!
Winter break is full of fun, food, friends, and folks, and of course – brightly wrapped gifts! But it can also feel awkward. You could be spending time with people you don’t know very well or with family members you rarely see. Whether you’re still in school or already working, the holidays can be a mix of fun and stress.
Before resorting to endless scrolling to pass the time, look up games you can easily teach your guests. There’s something fun for every age and skill level. And if you’re feeling extra generous, consider organizing a little gift exchange among your friends for team holiday gifts to add some festive cheer!
Creating Memorable Holiday Moments
Now, here are a few ideas to ensure you have a joyful, memorable, and stress-free holiday break.
Plan Ahead for Smooth Sailing
A little planning goes a long way. Think about the activities or outings you might want to try over the holiday break and sketch out a basic itinerary. Whether it’s a movie marathon with friends, a cozy family game night, or some time for winter sports, having a loose plan helps everyone feel included and excited. This also leaves you room to do something spontaneous without feeling rushed!
Try Out New Group Games
Games are perfect icebreakers for holiday gatherings. Whether it’s classic charades, a trivia night, or board games, choose a mix of old favorites and new picks. Some quick and easy options for larger groups include Heads Up, Pictionary, or even setting up a DIY photo booth corner for some silly snapshots. Everyone loves sharing a laugh, and a bit of friendly competition can add excitement to the night.
Embrace a No-Phone Zone
This doesn’t mean you have to keep all phones off-limits but encourage everyone to put down their screens for a while and engage face-to-face. Suggest a “no phones at the dinner table” rule or a phone-free hour during the evening.
You could also make it fun and ask for all phones to go into a box before entering the gathering. This encourages everyone to live in the moment and really connect.
Get Creative with DIY Crafts
If you’re feeling artsy, set up a small table with craft supplies for some hands-on fun. This can be as simple as holiday ornament decorating, card-making, or even creating friendship bracelets. You can even turn it into a contest with a prize for the most creative craft.
Plus, handmade gifts add a personal touch that makes holiday gatherings more meaningful. After all, creating fun does not have to be elaborate of expensive. All you need is a few creative ideas for festive fun.
Give Back Together
Spread a little kindness by organizing a small volunteer activity or a holiday donation drive. Consider hosting a small food or gift donation collection and drop it off at a local charity as a group. Giving back as a family or friend group brings everyone closer and makes the season feel more purposeful. You’ll also be extra thankful when it’s time to sit down to your own dinner table.
Keep It Cozy
Finally, remember that it’s okay to keep things low-key. Wear your favorite cozy sweaters and focus on just being with people you care about. Avoid comparing yourself to others or feeling pressure to make everything “perfect.” Just relax and enjoy each moment – those are the memories that will make the holiday feel truly special.
This holiday break, focus on laughter, kindness, and connection, and let the stress melt away. With a few simple efforts to make everyone feel welcome, you’ll be set for the happiest holiday yet. You’ll also feel recharged for when it’s time to head back to school or work.
Rediscover The Magic of the Holidays
Go back in your mind to World War 1, December, 1914. On one side of the battlefield: The Germans. On the other side: British, French and Belgian troops.
Soldiers were huddled in the cold dirt, in trenches on both sides. Late on Christmas eve night, the moon was bright and magical. Someone on the German side rose from his hole in the ground to start singing Christmas carols.
Other German soldiers soon joined in. When they were done, the other side—the Allies—sang a Christmas carol in return. Soon, the men were out of their trenches, singing carols and exchanging their meager supplies as goodwill gestures and shows of holiday spirit.
Of course, the commanders far away from the fighting did not approve of such behavior, but the soldiers there face to face with the enemy set aside their hostilities to be kind and thoughtful human beings, even in the face of war and death.
Reports on what happened the following days vary, but all agree that the front-line soldiers on both sides declared an unofficial truce. In some reports, the soldiers even played soccer on the battlefield.
Of course, sadly, the war resumed. For years to follow, soldiers fought for freedom in Europe. But in 1914 for the Christmas holidays, the soldiers set down their rifles and sang to the enemy.
Google the Christmas miracle of 1914. Then ask yourself if it truly is impossible to spread peace and goodwill for the holidays, even to people you think you hate.
Parents, learn what you can do to provide safe fun for kids during school holidays breaks.
