19 Christmas Party Ideas for Kids To Ensure Fun and Festive Celebrations

ByRachel Merkel Hours Updated on 
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Planning a Christmas party for kids can feel a bit tricky sometimes. You want them to have a blast, but you also want things to run smoothly.

I’ve learned that picking the right activities, decorations, and snacks really keeps the holiday spirit going. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between fun and chaos.

If you’re wondering how to create a memorable Christmas party for kids that’s both enjoyable and manageable, here are 19 simple ideas to get you started.

These suggestions are meant to bring joy and excitement to the holidays, minus the stress.

1) Winter Wonderland Indoor Party with Cotton Batting Snow and String Lights

Children enjoying a festive indoor winter party with cotton batting snow and string lights.

I like turning my home into a winter wonderland with cotton batting for soft, fake snow. Just spread it around tables or on the floor—it gives a snowy vibe without the mess.

String lights are a must. I usually go for white or cool-toned ones to mimic that icy glow.

Kids love making paper snowflakes to hang up, which adds a crafty element. It’s a cozy, magical setup that works in pretty much any indoor space.

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2) Gingerbread House Decorating Contest

Children decorating gingerbread houses at a table with Christmas decorations in the background.

I hand each child a basic gingerbread house kit so everyone starts off on equal footing. That way, it feels fair.

Then I put out candies, icing, sprinkles, and sometimes mini donuts for extra flair. Kids can work solo or in pairs, which takes the edge off any competitiveness.

At the end, everyone shows off their creations. Sometimes I hand out little prizes for “most creative” or “best use of color,” just to keep things light.

3) Pin the Nose on the Snowman Game

Children playing a game where they try to pin a carrot nose on a snowman poster at a decorated Christmas party.

Pin the Nose on the Snowman is always a hit—simple and silly. I hang a snowman poster and blindfold the kids, then let them try to stick the carrot nose on.

You can use paper noses or make your own from whatever’s handy. Printable kits make it even easier.

This game keeps kids moving and works for a wide age range. It definitely adds a festive touch to the party.

4) Christmas Cookie Decorating Station

Children decorating Christmas cookies at a festive table with colorful icing and holiday decorations.

I love setting up a Christmas cookie decorating station. Plain cookies shaped like trees, snowflakes, or stars work best.

I set out bowls of frosting, sprinkles, and candies. Kids pick their favorite colors and toppings.

This keeps them busy and lets them take home their decorated cookies as a sweet party favor.

5) Holiday-themed Scavenger Hunt

Holiday scavenger hunts are a go-to for me. I write clues that lead kids to find small gifts or decorations around the house.

For little ones, I use simple rhymes or pictures. Older kids get riddles that make them think a bit more.

You can do these hunts inside or out, depending on the weather and your space.

6) Elf Dress-up Relay Race

Children dressed as elves participating in a relay race at a Christmas party indoors with festive decorations.

The Elf Dress-up Relay Race is one of those games that gets everyone laughing. I put a box of oversized elf clothes and accessories at the turnaround spot.

Kids race to the box, throw on the clothes, and dash back to tag the next teammate. The silly outfits make it hilarious.

It’s great for teamwork and burns off some of that party energy.

7) DIY Christmas Ornaments Craft

Children making Christmas ornaments at a decorated table during a festive holiday party.

DIY Christmas ornaments are always a crowd-pleaser. I grab whatever’s around—paper, yarn, popsicle sticks—and let kids get creative.

This works for all ages and gives everyone a little keepsake to hang on the tree. It’s hands-on and makes the party feel more personal.

Plus, they can gift their ornaments to family if they want.

8) Festive Photo Booth with Props

Children wearing holiday hats and holding Christmas props in a decorated photo booth with festive lights and ornaments.

Photo booths with Christmas props are a staple at my parties. Hats, glasses, and funny signs always get a laugh.

I print out props or make quick ones with craft supplies. It’s easy and doesn’t require much setup.

Parents and friends usually jump in, too. The festive vibe makes for great memories and cute photos.

9) Snowflake Paper Craft Activity

Children sitting around a table making paper snowflakes during a Christmas party with festive decorations in the background.

Paper snowflakes are a classic. Kids fold and cut paper to make their own unique designs.

It’s a fun way for them to practice fine motor skills and learn about symmetry. Colored or plain paper works—whatever you have.

I hang the finished snowflakes around the party area. No special supplies needed, so anyone can join in.

10) Christmas Carol Karaoke

Christmas Carol Karaoke gets everyone singing, even the shy kids. All you need is a playlist of carols and maybe a karaoke app.

Younger kids go for the easy songs, while older ones tackle the trickier tunes. It’s a blast and spreads holiday cheer.

Everyone gets a turn in the spotlight. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to teach new songs and traditions.

11) Reindeer Antler Ring Toss

Reindeer Antler Ring Toss is always a laugh. One kid wears antlers (inflatable or homemade), and the others toss soft rings.

I make rings from pipe cleaners or whatever’s soft and safe. It’s easy and works for all ages.

This game keeps kids moving and fits right in with the holiday mood.

12) Build a 3D Nativity Scene

A detailed 3D Nativity scene with figurines of Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, shepherds, wise men, and animals inside a stable, surrounded by Christmas decorations and children's party crafts on a table.

Crafting a 3D nativity scene brings a quiet, meaningful moment to the party. I print templates and let the kids color, cut, and assemble their own scenes.

They can work alone or in groups. The finished nativity makes a cute keepsake or a nice table decoration.

It’s a nice break from the louder games and gives them a chance to learn about the Christmas story.

13) Holiday Movie Marathon with Popcorn

A holiday movie marathon is a cozy way to wind down. I pick a few classics that everyone likes.

Popcorn is a must—sometimes I add red and green sprinkles or a bit of cinnamon. The kids love the special touch.

Blankets and holiday pajamas make it extra comfy. Dim lights set the mood, and suddenly it feels like a real event.

14) Christmas Bingo with Themed Prizes

Christmas Bingo is a party staple for me. Themed prizes like mini erasers, stickers, or tiny toys get kids excited.

You don’t have to spend much—small candies or holiday trinkets work just fine. Kids love winning, even if it’s something simple.

It keeps the energy up and everyone wants to play.

15) Santa Hat Musical Chairs

Santa Hat Musical Chairs puts a holiday spin on a classic game. Each kid needs a Santa hat to play.

When the music stops, they scramble for chairs and hats. I set up chairs in a circle and remove one each round.

Players share hats, which adds to the chaos in the best way. It’s simple, festive, and always gets kids giggling.

16) Christmas Tree Pinata

I love using a Christmas tree pinata at parties. It’s the perfect mix of decoration and entertainment.

Hang it up as a festive ornament, and later, let the kids have at it. They’ll get a kick out of breaking it open.

Making one isn’t hard. Just grab some paper, glue, and stuff it with candy or tiny toys.

Kids always seem excited for that surprise inside. It’s honestly a hit every time.

This works for classrooms or home parties. It keeps everyone busy and adds a little extra sparkle to the whole thing.

17) Hot Chocolate and Marshmallow Bar

A festive table with mugs of hot chocolate, jars of marshmallows and toppings, decorated for a children's Christmas party.

Setting up a hot chocolate and marshmallow bar for kids? I’m all for it. It’s easy and lets them make their drinks just how they like.

You can offer mini marshmallows, candy canes, chocolate chips, and sprinkles. Throw in whipped cream and cinnamon sticks if you want to go all out.

Kids stay busy while sipping something sweet. This works for big groups or just a handful of friends.

Honestly, it’s a cozy way to bring some cheer to a holiday get-together.

18) DIY Festive Holiday Cards

I always add DIY holiday cards to kids’ Christmas parties. It’s a creative, mellow activity that gives kids a chance to show off their artistic side.

I usually set out markers, stickers, and colorful paper—nothing fancy. Kids of any age can join in, and they get to keep their cards or share them with family.

It keeps them engaged and spreads a little cheer. There’s something about a handmade card that just feels more special than anything you’d buy in a store.

19) Candy Cane Hunt

I love using the Candy Cane Hunt at Christmas parties. It’s a simple game, but kids really get into it.

I usually hide candy canes all over the room or out in the yard. The kids get to race around, searching for them.

They stay busy and excited, and honestly, it’s kind of fun to watch. Plus, they have to look carefully and think about where to check next.

Want to make it trickier? Try giving them clues or setting a timer. It’s a festive way to add a little extra energy to any holiday get-together.

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