10 Unforgettable, Teen-Approved Holiday Activities to Enjoy

Winter break is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your teenager. Whether you’re looking to tap into their creativity, enjoy some friendly competition, or simply bond over shared experiences, these 10 fun activities will make this holiday season one to remember.

10 activities to enjoy with your teen this holiday season

1. Create & bake a buffet of treats for friends

Get into the holiday spirit by spending a day in the kitchen baking scrumptious treats. From handmade cookies and sweets to savory hors d’oeuvres, let your teen’s culinary creativity shine. Pull out the aprons and invite friends over to share in the experience.

2. Relaxing puzzle fun

Take a break from the digital world and spend some quality time solving a puzzle together. Choose a puzzle featuring something your teen loves, whether it’s their favorite movie, hobby, or a festive holiday scene. Turn up the holiday vibes by playing some cheerful tunes in the background, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere.

3. Modern gingerbread house

Don’t forget to indulge in a holiday classic of decorating gingerbread houses. Venture out and let them create their own concept. Give them a budget and let them build a castle with a moat, an elf-filled pirate ship, or whatever their imagination conjures up. Some good basic items are a strong glue-like icing, thick gingerbread, food coloring, pretzel sticks, marshmallows, and pull ‘n peel licorice.

4. Hot chocolate bar

Craft some unique hot chocolate bombs and set up a hot chocolate bar for a sweet and festive afternoon. There’s tons of creative ideas to be found on Pinterest. Don’t forget the peppermint, whipped cream, marshmallows, and sprinkles.

5. Caveman Charades: A twist on a classic game

Kick off the winter break with a unique and entertaining game that will have everyone giggling. Caveman Charades involves describing a word by only using words that have 1 syllable. This hilarious activity not only encourages thinking outside the box, but also fosters teamwork as you and your teen work together to decipher each other’s primitive presentation.

6. Dance the night away with TikTok moves

Embrace the social media craze in a wholesome way by learning and performing some trendy TikTok dances with your teen. Not only is this a great way to get active and move, but it also provides an opportunity for some friendly competition. Challenge each other to master the latest dance moves and record your progress for hilarious entertainment when you walk back down memory lane.

7. Experience the magic of performance arts

Attend a local performance of the Nutcracker or catch a screening of a classic Christmas story. Immerse yourselves in the enchanting world of ballet or the timeless tales that capture the essence of the holiday season. This shared cultural experience can provide an opportunity for interesting conversations.

8. A superlative gift exchange

Inject some humor and creativity into your gift-giving traditions with a gift exchange that includes a specific theme. Encourage your teen to find the funniest, most creative, or weirdest gift they can think of. The element of surprise and laughter will make this exchange a highlight of your holiday.

9. Cozy movie night with festive flair

Transform a regular movie night into a festive extravaganza. Set up an inviting movie corner with Christmas popcorn tins and warm apple cider. Don’t forget to don your most festive pajamas. Choose a mix of classic and new holiday films to create a cinematic experience that the whole family can enjoy together.

10. Outdoor snow adventures: Embrace the winter wonderland

If you’re lucky enough to have a snowy holiday season, take full advantage of it by heading outdoors. Build an igloo or a snowman, go sledding, try ice skating, make snow angels or snow cones, or start a snowball fight. Make sure everyone has lots of layers to last in the cold!

This holiday season, go beyond the usual traditions and create unique and memorable experiences with your teen. These activities will bring you closer together and make spending time together truly special.

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