The holiday season presents the perfect opportunity to build new traditions that bring warmth, joy and a sense of togetherness—for your home and your business. Whether you’re looking to create lasting memories with family or festive moments for customers and employees, these ideas will help spark inspiration to embrace the magic of the holiday season.

Holiday traditions to start at home

Ornament decorating 

Get your family together to create new ornaments for the tree, and consider hosting an ornament exchange with friends.

Holiday movie marathon

Dedicate an evening (or a day) for gathering with family and friends to watch your favorite holiday movies. Extra points for hot cocoa, popcorn and holiday cookies.

Cookie-baking day

Bake and decorate cookies together and try new recipes each year.

Volunteer day

Choose a charitable cause where you and your family can volunteer to reinforce the spirit of giving during the holidays.

Countdown calendar

Create a custom holiday countdown with fun daily activities like jokes, small gifts or candy...or a daily challenge leading to the holiday.

Family photos

Take a themed family photo each year. Get creative with matching outfits or specific backdrops.

Holiday lights tour

Pile in the family car and drive through your neighborhood (or a local light display) to “ooh” and “ahh” over the holiday lights.

Holiday traditions to start at your business

Staff gift exchange

Organize a White Elephant gift exchange, keeping it light-hearted with a firm spending limit.

Charitable giving drive

Encourage employees to participate in collecting food, toys or coats for local shelters.

Office decorating contest

Have employees decorate their desks or workspaces, then hold a friendly competition for different awards (e.g., Most Creative, Best Decorated, Most Tinsel).

Employee appreciation

Dedicate a day during the holiday season to show your team your gratitude with gifts or even half-day Fridays during December.

Holiday party

Host an office-wide catered holiday meal where everyone can gather and celebrate.

Holiday spirit week

Create themed dress-up days throughout the holiday season, such as Ugly Sweater Day, Festive Colors Day or Holiday Pajama Day to make the workplace fun and festive.

Happy Holidays!

By starting these traditions, you’ll create cherished memories and help build a legacy that can be passed down for generations. Embrace the season and make every moment magical!