Christmas Eve Traditions

Preparing for Christmas gatherings of family and friends means physically changing the interior of your home to be warmer and more inviting creating an atmosphere where people can sit, talk and enjoy each other’s company.

The Traditions of Christmas

The Traditions of Christmas

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Excitement is a big part of the holiday season, especially on Christmas Eve when children eagerly await Santa's arrival.

"Every family has their own traditions that make this night a special time," says Denise Darragh of Hallmark Canada. "These special activities that are looked forward to all year are often created when children are young and parents mix favourite traditions from their childhood with new ones that reflect their growing family."

If you've got a young family and are looking for some inspiration on how to make Christmas Eve memorable for years to come, consider these ideas from the holiday experts at Hallmark.

1. Leave cookies and milk out for Santa with Hallmark's special cookie plate and mug. Plus, Hallmark's handy reindeer bowl is perfect to offer a few carrots to Rudolf and the rest of the reindeer crew.

2. Find an outdoor ice rink in your area and set up a skating party for family members young and old. The exercise and fresh air will help young ones sleep later on Christmas morning as an added bonus.

3. If you don't have a fireplace or your roof is slippery, leave Hallmark's Santa Key on your front door to provide a new route of entry for the jolly old elf.

4. Sprinkle icing sugar on your dining room table once the kids are in bed. Tell them it's magic reindeer dust when they spot it in the morning (proof positive Santa stopped by).

5. Settle excited kids with a bed-time story like the 'Night Before Christmas' and snuggle on the sofa together with hot cups of cocoa.

6. While most families have decorated their tree long before Christmas Eve, consider saving a few special ornaments to hang on Christmas Eve.

7. Get your youngsters involved in Christmas Day preparations by assigning a few special tasks to them the night before like decorating sugar cookies or helping to hang mistletoe

8. Teach your kids popular Christmas carols or other seasonal songs and sing them together before bed time on Christmas Eve.

The traditions you start at Christmas Eve are only limited by your imagination. No matter what activities you choose, they'll provide happy memories for the whole family and enrich the holiday season with sharing and love.

For additional holiday tips visit hallmark.com or call 1-800-268-3230. Courtesy News Canada

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