Ideas for things to do in the run up to xmas with older children

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Looking at another thread I became very nostalgic for all the lovely things I did with my DC when they were little.

Now they are 12, some things might not fly as well, but I still want it to be a magical time.

So what suggestions do any of you have?

So far, I've thought ice skating at an out door rink and taking some photographs we can email to family and friends.

My DDs are nearly 11 and I'm going to take them ice-skating and to see Arthur Christmas. Are you near London - how about a walk along the South Bank, there's often xmassy stalls there, or a walk down Oxford St/Regent St, pop into Harrods, look at all the xmas stuff.

Panto?

Mine are 12 and 9 and we have a traditional pre-Christmas trip to see the lights and go to Hamleys. (They don't tend to buy much there thankfully, don't fancy carrying it home)!

Winter Wonderland (Hyde Park)

Definately a Christmas film (Arthur Christmas this year)

Mine are 'too old' -their words- for panto, but DD and I go to ballet.

Iceskating sounds fun but I think only my DS would do it.
Go for a nice festive hot chocolate after (with a gingerbread man)

Carol service? See a xmas film or have xmas movie night at home, would they tolerate an xmas market? Paint pottery as a gift for dh?

if they like craft stuff, make Christmas cards for family/friends; make a gingerbread house.

Are you anywhere near a German/Christmas market? My DD loves walking round not that we ever buy anything there.

Thank you all so much.
I think I shall adopt your ideas en masse.
Should keep us busy and make sure the sparkle doesn't go out of xmas just because they no longer believe...