No matter what your beliefs, one of the greatest gifts you can receive on Christmas Day won’t be found under a tree, because it’s wrapped in opportunity rather than decorative paper. Christmas Day ushers in a special chance to make new memories with the people you love. Take advantage of this opportunity by planning something fun to do as a family on Christmas Day. Starting a new Christmas Day tradition with your family is an exciting way to make the most out of your time together and enhance the quality of the memories you create.

Making things together is a great way to bond as a family. Work as a team to create something special on Christmas Day. You could make wreaths or design homemade ornaments that you can collect year after year. Making a gratitude tree gives you an opportunity to get crafty with your loved ones and express appreciation as the same time. To make a gratitude tree, head outdoors with the family and choose a sturdy branch from a tree. Then head back inside and design paper leaves that you can each write messages of gratitude on and color or decorate to your liking. When finished, hang the leaves from the branches and put your gratitude on display.

Sweeten up your family time by baking something yummy together. You can make a variety of cookies or whip up a special holiday cake. Perhaps you can even hold a gingerbread house contest for the whole family to participate in.

Bring your family closer together by teaming up to help others. Volunteer at a local soup kitchen or organize a toy drive for needy children. Your family can choose a new way to give back to the community each year.

Celebrate your family’s unique talents by hosting an intergenerational talent contest each year. Let grandpa show off his dance moves, and give a round of applause for your cousin’s magic routine or your sister’s performance of her favorite song. Encourage family members to contribute any of their unique gifts and celebrate them together.

If the weather permits, gather the whole family for a potluck picnic in the backyard or in your favorite local park. Don’t let Mother Nature interrupt your annual Christmas Day Picnic, though. Should the weather choose not to cooperate, you can always lay down your picnic blanket on the living room floor and continue the festivities.

The holiday season usually boasts a variety of performances across the country. You can get together to catch a play at the local theater. If nothing catches your eye, you and your family can always put on your own annual Christmas show right in the comfort of your own living room.

If your family happens to include a lot of movie buffs, Christmas Day might be the perfect opportunity to hold an annual movie marathon. Whether you love watching classic Christmas movies or are into different genres of films, break out the popcorn and let each family member choose a movie to enjoy together.

Grab some hot chocolate and gather up your troops for a luminous drive. Roam around your area or check out neighboring areas, looking for homes or businesses with lights on display.

Many bowling alleys are open on Christmas Day, and bowling is a great team-building activity to share with your loved ones. Knock down some pins together to see who can get the highest score.

The holiday season can be challenging for people who are going through a tough time or who don’t have loved ones to share it with. Work as a team to spread some holiday cheer beyond your own family. You can bake holiday cookies or make homemade Christmas cards with positive messages of hope and personally deliver them to strangers at a local elderly care facility or to a lonely neighbor down the street.