Christmas family fun recommendations please!

[SicknSpan]

Dh and I work and both normally work in the run up to Xmas too. However this year I am fortunate to have the whole of the Xmas hols off, dh also has most of the holiday at home as well.

I really want to make the most of having this festive time with our two sons, aged 8 and 5, but being new to this don't know what folk do! We have the switching on of the towns Xmas lights, and a trip to a santos grotto at nearby garden centre but I also see lots of stuff mentioned on here that I should have written down as they sound like lovely ideas. Not necessarily outings, but nice Christmassy stuff to do at home which the whole family - but particularly our boys- will remember.

Any suggestions so that I can try?

[snowgirl1]

Making Christmas decorations? Making cards (if it won't be too late)? Making Christmas cookies? Going to a panto? Going to a carol singing session? Going for a walk around your neighbourhood on the evening to see people's Christmas lights? Do Elf on the shelf

[SicknSpan]

Ooh we'll definitely do a trip to see neighbourhood lights. And Christmas baking. Thanks!

[lizzywig]

My favourite childhood memory is making tree chocolates, watching ET and being allowed up late while my mum decorated the Christmas tree. I felt so grown up and look back at it with such fondness. I think it's the simple things that create nice memories. I will be making gingerbread with my DD and making paperchains. Lots of Christmas music and movies too as well as some special books.