1. BE CREATIVE! DESIGN AN ANNUAL CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT
You don’t have to redo the entire tree, but before you spend money on more ornaments, think about sitting down with the kids to create a DIY one to hang proudly on the tree. As the kids grow, your tree will be filled with beautiful memories of Christmas’ past.
2. SUPPORT THOSE IN NEED OF CHRISTMAS CHEER
There are so many worthy charities to put your money behind. This year, consider giving to The Toronto Star Santa Claus Fund. It has been running since 1906 providing children with Christmas Cheer in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Ajax and Pickering. Today, a total of 45,000 gifts are handed out to children over the holiday season filled with basic necessities including warm clothing like a shirt, socks, mittens, hat, book, toy, food and toothbrush with toothpaste.
3. HOST A VIRTUAL CELEBRATION
If you are planning on virtual Christmas but want to spruce it up a little bit to make it more festive, here are a few great ideas to keep people engaged and entertained.
4. DIRECT A HOMEMADE HOLIDAY VIDEO
If you usually send out cards, consider making a video this year instead! You don’t have to make it fancy. Just flip your smartphone camera to selfie view and start talking. Wear your ugly Christmas sweaters. Give a tour of your home decorated for the holidays. Show off your new puppy. And then share it on your socials or send it via email. There are even online programs like Promo or Animoto with free templates you can upload your video to for a finished quality product.
5. BE CRAFTY! MAKE HOMEMADE GIFTS
The best gifts are always the thoughtful ones. Making a present using your skills and talents is always super special, and there are so many great ideas, from home decor items to spa experiences. You are sure to find something for everyone.
6. SHOP LOCAL & SUPPORT BUSINESS OWNERS
If you are buying gifts this year, do your best to shop close to home instead of online, so you can show your support for small business owners and artists. Look for local boutiques near you or visit the One of A Kind Toronto online show.
7. REFLECT ON 2020 WITH A TIME CAPSULE
When 2020 is long gone, we will be interested in what the world looked like during this unprecedented year. Making a Time Capsule is a great way to teach the children about the importance of recording history and New Year’s Eve is the perfect time for reflection. Plan to open it back up again in 10 years.
8. LIGHT IT UP!
Putting up some exterior lights this year to help bring some extra joy to your neighbourhood and your home. Make it simple by starting with a plan. Lowes has some great tips for creating the best light show in your neighborhood.
9. SING TOGETHER WITH FAMILY CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Are you missing your annual holiday party? Bring the party to your neighbors with the time-honoured tradition of Christmas Caroling! Stick to only those in your bubble, stay on the sidewalk so you keep a safe distance – try calling ahead to say ‘look out your window!’. It’s a sweet way to let people know you are thinking about them.
10. BREAK OUT THE MIXER AND GET BAKING!
This holiday season, let’s make it a point to cherish what is truly important in our lives: cookies. So get your mixer out of the cupboard and start baking.
BONUS CONTENT
Feel like upping your Christmas decorations but don’t want to spend the cash? Here are some elevated DIY decorations you can make at home.
From our family at National Homes to yours, we wish you all the joys of the season and hope this new year will be your best one ever.