My Top 5 Ways To Make the Holiday Season Hap-Hap-Happiest Possible

Making Clark Griswold green with envy from how much joy & connection you can feel.

1. Plan Meaningful Family Traditions

  • Movie Marathon: Watch classic holiday movies like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Home Alone, or Elf as a family. This starts for me before Thanksgiving so yea, I am that person.
  • Tree Decorating Party: Make decorating the tree a fun event with music, hot cocoa, and lots of laughter. This is always fun when you have little kids around but can also be fun by trying a new type of tree or new holiday tradition.
  • Countdown Activities: Create an advent calendar with daily surprises, from small gifts to activities like baking or crafting.

2. Spread Joy to Others

  • Give Back: Volunteer at a local shelter, donate toys, or adopt a family in need. This is actually one of my most favorite things to do, without telling anyone just show up and start helping. The joy this brings my heart fills my cup for the rest of the season.
  • Acts of Kindness: Write holiday cards to nursing home residents or leave surprise treats for your neighbors.

3. Indulge in Festive Food and Drinks

  • Host a potluck-style dinner or cookie exchange party. Or a cool Dinner party where guest dress up as their favorite holiday character or item.
  • Experiment with holiday recipes, like gingerbread cookies, eggnog, or a creative Christmas punch.
  • Set up a “DIY Hot Chocolate Bar” with toppings like whipped cream, candy canes, and marshmallows.

4. Deck the Halls with Personality

  • Go all out with decorations—light up your home Griswold-style or try a theme (e.g., rustic chic, winter wonderland).
  • Craft DIY ornaments or wreaths with family and friends.

5. Create Memorable Experiences

  • Outdoor Adventures: Visit a holiday light display, go sledding, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
  • Holiday Getaway: Plan a mini-vacation to a cozy cabin or a destination that gets you into the festive spirit. Also thinking about making your entire holiday a getaway, visit a bucket list place.
  • Game Night: Play holiday-themed games like trivia or charades with the whole family.

The key is to focus on moments that bring laughter, connection, and joy—just like Clark Griswold would (minus the tangled lights and burnt turkey)!