Last-Minute Christmas Eve Traditions to Start This Year

Still looking for that special something to make Christmas Eve magical? Try one of these low-effort but high-impact ideas:

• Holiday Movie Picnic: Spread blankets on the living room floor, serve popcorn and cocoa, and watch a holiday classic together (Elf, anyone?).
• Light the Night: Bundle up, grab flashlights, and take a family walk to look at Christmas lights. Bring along a thermos of cider or cocoa for extra warmth.
• “Night Before Christmas” Box: Fill a box with new PJs, a book, and a sweet treat for each family member to open before bed.

Why it works: These little traditions can feel big in all the best ways.

Reflect on 2024 as a Family

Before the year ends, take a moment to look back and celebrate the wins, laugh at the fails, and make plans for the new year.

• The Year in Highlights: Go around the table and share everyone’s favorite moment or funniest memory of the year.
• Memory Jar: Have everyone write down their favorite 2024 memories on small pieces of paper. Save them in a jar to read next New Year’s Eve.
• “What’s Next?” List: Write down one thing each family member is excited about for 2025—whether it’s a big goal or a fun trip.

Mom win: It’s a meaningful way to reflect and connect before the New Year rush.

Your Post-Holiday Reset Plan

Once the wrapping paper is cleared, it’s tempting to crash—but a little planning now will make the post-holiday chaos so much easier:

• Declutter as You Go: Have a designated spot for recycling paper, boxes, and ribbons. Encourage the kids to help!
• Toy Triage: Set aside toys your kids have outgrown to donate. It’s a great way to make space for their new favorites.
• “Plan-Free” Day: Schedule at least one day between Christmas and New Year’s where nothing is on the agenda. Pajamas required.

Why it matters: Giving yourself a moment to breathe makes January feel so much more manageable.

Easy Leftover Magic

Turn holiday leftovers into meals your family will love (yes, even after the 10th ham sandwich):

• Cranberry-Brie Grilled Cheese: Spread leftover cranberry sauce on bread, add brie and turkey or ham, and grill to golden perfection.
• Stuffing Waffles: Press leftover stuffing into a waffle maker for crispy “waffles” that pair perfectly with eggs or gravy.
• Sweet Potato Pancakes: Mash sweet potatoes with a little flour, egg, and cinnamon, then cook like pancakes. Add maple syrup for a brunch win.

Hack: Freeze leftovers in small portions for easy meals when the holiday rush is over. 

As the season winds down, remember: It’s not about checking every box—it’s about making the moments count. Next week, we’ll help you reflect on 2024, set intentions for 2025, and kick off the New Year with fresh inspiration.

Until then, stay cozy, stay kind, and soak up all the holiday magic you’ve worked so hard to create.