Do you take your children out somewhere on Christmas Eve like the cinema etc?

[Fimbo]

I am debating whether to do this. Do the cinemas remain open or shut early? What about restaurants do they close early too? (I haven't been out on Christmas Eve pre 1998 when dd came along!)

I usually take dc's to the cinema on christmas eve to give dh time to wrap presents.

Don't think it closes that early.

Restaurants vary I think.

Thanks SB will give it a try I think.

We go to the pantomime or to see a christmasy play. We don't like the pantomime very much though, they always pick children out and give them sweets, they are always the ones sitting by the stage and all the others are left out. This annoys me.

we go and see my Mum - it's her birthday
Then we go to church at 6pm for children's service - lovely

We go to the carnival followed by a visit to see the Christmas lights in George Square in Glasgow, its lovely and makes you feel so festive.

Last year we were in Tenerife and flew home on xmas day, that was fab. Won't be doing that this year thought

No, but we always go to the zoo on Boxing Day - its a lovely tradition.

No we don't, but it sounds like a lovely idea. Restaurants are probably very quiet, and would welcome even our rowdy brood.

we go to the nativity play at church all the children can dress up there are extra costumes for those without and it's a fab start to christmas. Last year we were away and I really missed it.

I have done for years, but this year I am taking them away on the 22nd to stay in a hotel, we will visit Santa, shop, go to a panto and eat out. Be home the 23rd.

Our local animal shelter has an open evening on christmas eve to raise funds.

When I was little my grandparents always took us to the pantomime matinee performance, and then we were in the church nativity play in the evening.

All good ideas - thanks.

May try a church service too.