The holidays are generally an occasion when extended families get together and sometimes it’s the only instance during the entire year when the majority of cousins, uncles, and aunts are able to meet simultaneously. With all the food and holiday décor there’s usually a lot of excitement yet at the same time it’s important to find meaningful holiday activities for this rare gathering. Then precious memories can be made that will withstand the test of time. After all, is there anything more important than bonding with family? If you are hosting this year’s festivities, here are a few ideas to consider when planning it all out.
Fun Extended Family Holiday Ideas:
Home videos
Television shows and broadcasted games can be seen throughout the year. In their place roll out the rug, toss a bunch of pillows around the room, make some popcorn and play a bunch of home videos. Even if you don’t have a projector screen just white wash a wall you’ve been meaning to paint and ask the different branches of the family to bring copies of some of their favorite home films to show. If possible bring edited versions and as a side task appoint someone to be the holiday videographer so there will be new memories to feature next year.
Slide show
The digital age is still young enough for many of us to remember that slides were once widely used in the photographic arena. Chances are many families still have boxes of these lying around so if a working projector is available set up a slide show for the current generation. Everyone’s sure to get a kick out of those ancient family photos such as the old clothing, that first car, and the house before it went through major renovations.
Oral history
Set up a time when the elder(s) of the family tell a few stories about their life experiences, family members they recall who are no longer living, or simply what it was like when they grew up. It’s sure to peak the interest of a few youngsters and some of the adults may even decide to take up the job of documenting their accounts.
Collages
Have the various sides of the family bring to the holiday gathering pictures they are willing to use in an art project. Supply pasteboard, scissors, and glue and get everyone to participate in making a photo collage for each family that includes everyone in each montage. If some faces are unavailable just pull out the digital camera and make prints on the fly. In the end it’s a great way to stay familiar and connect with all the relatives after returning home.
Volunteer
Arrange before hand for the entire family to spend a few hours volunteering at a local soup kitchen or old age home. Helping others is always a great way to generate meaningful experiences.
Bake Together
Let one generation pass down all the favorite Christmas recipes to the next generation. Bake Christmas cookies, make Christmas Chex Mix, or make a yule tide log!
Outing
Plan a local outing for the entire group. Depending on the region this could mean braving cold weather but if everyone is up for the ride go for ice skating, play a sport, or check out a local museum. Or you can take a stroll through the neighborhood and go caroling!
Holiday And Family fun Ideas Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed my suggestions for Meaningful Holiday Activities for the Extended Family. What are your favorite fun holiday activities for families? Share them on social media @familyfocusblog!
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