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?

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

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

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.