The holidays are almost here, and it's time to kick off the excitement with a fun family countdown! I rediscovered this gem in the Macaroni KID archives—a creative and customizable way to count down to your celebration. Whether you're gearing up for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year's, or another festive occasion, this activity can be easily tailored to fit your family's traditions and schedule.
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The holiday season is the perfect time for family traditions. From shared meals to festive games, there are countless ways to create memories together!
One of our family’s favorite traditions is a book countdown—a fun and non-traditional take on an Advent calendar.
Here’s how it works: Each evening, my kids take turns choosing a book from a stack of wrapped holiday-themed reads. Then we cozy up with blankets, gather around the soft glow of the holiday lights, and unwrap a story to enjoy as a family.
While we use this idea to count down to Christmas, it’s easy to adapt for Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year's, or any winter celebration. Just swap in books that fit your family’s favorite themes or traditions!
Want to bring this tradition to your house?
Want to start this magical tradition at your house?
Supplies Needed:
- 24 books - or adjust the number to fit your schedule
- Wrapping paper
- Ribbon
- Labels
- Tape
- Scissors
Tips for Success:
- Use what you have: Books don’t need to be brand-new! Check your family’s bookshelves, trade with a friend, or borrow from the library to keep it budget-friendly.
- Customize the countdown: Wrap and label your books 1 – 24. You can unwrap No. 1 on December 1st, count backward from 24, or skip numbering altogether and let your kids pick randomly each night!
- Non-book alternatives: Not every child loves books, and that’s okay! Swap in other items like small toys, cars, trading cards, coloring books, crayons, markers, Mad-Libs or puzzles. You could even include experiences, like a coupon to pick the family movie, stay up late, or skip a chore for the day.
This activity is all about making holiday memories in a way that fits your family’s interests and traditions!
Our Christmas book countdown is a simple holiday tradition, but one my kids and I look forward to each year! Hope it's an idea that brings your family Christmas joy too. Happy holidays!
This previously published article come curtesy of: Sarah Hauge, publisher of Macaroni KID Englewood-Greenwood Village-Centennial, Colo.
Edited and updated by Macaroni KID Conejo Valley - Malibu - Calabasas
