A family Christmas Eve box is a shared box or basket you open on December 24. Put in one thing to do together, one snack and one small tradition, like a note that lets someone pick the evening’s story. A shoebox, gift bag or basket you already own works.
What goes in a family Christmas Eve box?
- One activity to start right away. Try a puzzle, a coloring project or a few paper slips for a living-room scavenger hunt.
- One snack you already know everyone likes. Popcorn or cookies are easy to set out. Put cups and napkins on top so everything is ready together.
- One thing to repeat next year. Add an envelope with a family question, such as “What was the funniest thing that happened this year?” Keep the answers in the box for next Christmas.
Three Christmas Eve boxes you can put together
1. A coloring box for a family that likes crafts
Pack a coloring activity, cookies and a note assigning everyone a section of the picture. The DIY Christmas coloring blanket is an option if you want something the family can keep using afterward. The fleece blanket comes with 24 acrylic markers. The 28 × 39 in size is the smallest, while the 51 × 59 in and 59 × 79 in throws give everyone more room. Lay it out on a protected surface and choose one corner to start together.
2. A lights-out box for a family that likes stories
Pack a holiday book and write down three questions about a snowy village. Turn off the room lights and use the mini USB Christmas projector to put a holiday picture on the wall or ceiling. Take turns making up a sentence about the scene before you open the book. The 12-slide set is enough for the activity, and the 24-slide set gives you more scenes to swap in.
3. A snack-and-game box using things at home
Write three clues for a short hunt around the living room, add a bag of popcorn and pick a family card game. Make the last clue lead to the snack. For a chocolate version, set out strawberries or pretzels and have an adult prepare the tealight fondue mug. Keep it on the table while you play.
Can you make a Christmas Eve box at the last minute?
Yes. Use a book, snack and game you already have. If ordering a gift from Little Tada, most US orders arrive in 7–12 business days. Allow for that window before planning to open it on December 24. Check the shipping policy when ordering.
For more small items to tuck in, see our Christmas gifts under $30 or browse the Christmas gift collection.