How do we make a little Christmas exciting?

[KindergartenKop]

Due to the lovely rule of 6 I think we will be spending Christmas just as the four of us (Dh and two DSs aged 5 and 8). To me, Christmas has always been an 'event' and in the past I've found smaller celebrations really boring

So can anyone suggest ways of making Christmas nice for the children even if it's just 'us'?

PS No elves on shelves please.

Aahhh this thread has made me feel a bit more positive about Christmas this year.

If I could hug my mum and dad on the day that would just Make It for me.

There's always next year

There are some really great ideas on this thread!

Wake up to stockings and then downstairs for the main presents.
Breakfast and then maybe a bike ride as DS is getting a new bike and might want to try it.
Kids will play with new toys whilst we cook late lunch/ early dinner.
After dinner we are going to do a board game followed by more playing and chocolate.
In-laws May pop by and then we will have Xmas snacks whilst watching a Xmas film before bed.