Top Christmas Holiday Ideas for Families

If you’re dreaming of Family Christmas Holidays that feel magical, meaningful, and wonderfully stress-free, you’re in the right place. Whether you picture snowy forests under the Northern Lights, sunshine-soaked beaches in the Maldives, or action-packed theme parks where the whole family can make memories, there’s a perfect festive escape waiting for you.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through five incredible destinations that turn Christmas into something truly unforgettable. From meeting Santa in Lapland to snorkelling with tropical fish on Christmas morning, these holidays offer everything families need for a magical adventure.

Why Choose Family Christmas Holidays This Year?

A Family Christmas Holiday gives you something priceless: time together. No washing up, no hosting, no last-minute dashes to the shops — just pure quality time, adventures you’ll talk about for years, and an opportunity to celebrate in a way that feels right for your family.

Whether you’re seeking snow, sunshine or theme-park thrills, these holiday ideas offer festive joy wrapped with comfort, convenience and the sparkle of something new.

And with more families focusing on supporting your family’s wellbeing during travel, choosing a Christmas break designed around togetherness can make the season feel even more meaningful.

The Benefits of Family Christmas Holidays

Choosing Family Christmas Holidays is more than just swapping your living room for a different view — it’s about creating space for connection, memory-making and genuine festive joy. For many families, December is the busiest month of the year. There’s work, school events, shopping, cooking and competing diaries, often leaving little time for simply enjoying each other’s company.

A Christmas holiday clears away those pressures and replaces them with moments that feel lighter, calmer and more meaningful. Whether you’re watching your children spot Santa in Lapland, splashing in the warm Maldives sea or exploring theme park magic in Orlando, these experiences give families something priceless: time.

Top Benefits for Families

Quality Time Together
A festive break removes the stress of hosting, cleaning or cooking. You can just enjoy the magic.

New Shared Traditions
Whether it’s a beach BBQ or a snowy sleigh ride, holidays create traditions you’ll want to repeat.

Less Pressure, More Presence
Escaping routine means you can focus on making memories — not managing chaos.



Experience Over “Stuff”
More families are choosing experiences instead of more presents and packaging, making Christmas feel more personal and meaningful.

Top Destinations for Family Christmas Holidays

Lapland – The Ultimate Christmas Wonderland

Nothing captures the magic of Family Christmas Holidays quite like Lapland. Imagine your children’s faces as they meet Santa, ride through snowy forests in reindeer sleighs, and watch the Northern Lights swirl above them.

Why Lapland is perfect for families

Lapland feels made for Christmas – fresh powdery snow, cosy wooden cabins, glowing lanterns lining quiet paths, and festive excitement everywhere. It’s the kind of holiday that brings the spirit of Christmas to life no matter your age.

Unmissable Experiences

Meet Santa in His Hideaway

Families can take a snowmobile or husky-pulled sleigh deep into the forest to find Santa’s cabin. Each child gets their own special visit — a memory they’ll treasure forever.

Husky Sledding Adventure

Meet friendly huskies, learn how they’re trained, and glide through the wilderness on a sled led by your musher. It’s thrilling, scenic and ideal for older kids.

Reindeer Sleigh Rides

A gentle and magical ride through snowy landscapes, suitable for all ages — including toddlers.

Northern Lights Hunting

Join knowledgeable guides who’ll take you to prime viewing spots. With a bit of luck, you’ll see waves of green and violet light dancing across the sky.

Where to Stay in Lapland

Santa’s Grotto Village – Rovaniemi

A family-friendly resort with cosy cabins, Christmas decorations everywhere, and easy access to Santa’s Village. Expect festive dining, warm hospitality, and convenient transport to popular excursions.

Why families love it:

• Character cabins with fireplaces
• On-site festive activities
• Child-friendly menus
• Close to Santa’s Village

Ready to make Lapland part of your story? Jamie Wake Travel brings you a selection of hand-picked festive escapes with ATOL protection — ask us for the latest offers and dates.

For even more inspiration on snowy adventures, our guide to Lapland holidays for families explores Santa experiences, reindeer safaris and winter activities in greater depth.

Maldives – A Tropical Twist on Christmas

For families seeking sunshine and serenity, the Maldives is a dream come true. It’s a destination where you can celebrate Christmas on the beach, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and cherish warm family moments beneath palm trees.

Why the Maldives is ideal for Family Christmas Holidays

Unlike many assume, the Maldives isn’t just for couples — it’s incredibly family-friendly. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs, water activities, playful dining options and spacious villas.

Festive Family Experiences

Christmas Day on the Beach

Picture a relaxed buffet breakfast, sunshine on warm sand, and a gentle sea breeze — a peaceful and luxurious alternative to the traditional roast dinner at home.

Snorkelling with Marine Life

The Maldives boasts vibrant coral reefs perfect for beginners. Expect to see colourful fish, turtles and maybe even reef sharks.

Family Movie Nights Under the Stars

Some resorts set up giant screens on the beach, letting you unwind together in true paradise.

Where to Stay in the Maldives

Kurumba Maldives – North Malé Atoll

One of the best family resorts in the Maldives, offering stunning beaches, spacious rooms, and an award-winning kids’ club.

Why families love it:

• Child-friendly lagoon
• Festive gala dinners with a tropical twist
• Snorkel safaris suitable for beginners
• Reliable babysitting services

Ask Jamie Wake Travel for Maldives Christmas packages — we’ll help secure your preferred dates with low deposits and full ATOL protection.

Orlando, Florida – Christmas with Theme Park Magic

If your family loves adventure, thrills and festive excitement, Orlando delivers everything in abundance.

Why Orlando Works for Family Christmas Holidays

Christmas in Orlando means lights, parades, shows, themed fireworks, and more attractions than you can possibly pack into a single holiday. It’s a festive playground like no other.

Top Orlando Festive Experiences

Magic Kingdom’s Christmas Parade

See iconic Disney characters in their festive outfits, dance to Christmas music and enjoy magical snow on Main Street.

Universal’s Grinchmas

Watch hilarious shows, meet the Grinch and explore charming Seuss Landing decorated for the holidays.

EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays

Explore global Christmas traditions through food, performances and special events.

Where to Stay in Orlando

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

A vibrant and family-centric hotel with themed suites based on Disney classics.

Why families love it:

• Access to Early Theme Park Entry
• Incredible pools
• Family suites ideal for groups
• Excellent free transport around Disney World

For the best Orlando deals, especially during school holidays, speak to Jamie Wake Travel — we’ll help you compare on-site and off-site options to find great value.

Tenerife – Sunshine, Beaches and Family Fun

For a Christmas holiday closer to home, Tenerife combines warm weather, easy travel and countless family activities. It’s a brilliant option for relaxed festive celebrations without the long-haul flight.

Why Tenerife is Perfect for Family Christmas Holidays

With temperatures averaging 20–25°C in December, Tenerife is a warm getaway with excellent family-friendly resorts and plenty to explore.

Festive Family Activities

Siam Park

One of the world’s best waterparks, perfect for adrenaline seekers and younger children alike.

Mount Teide Sunset Tour

Explore volcano landscapes and watch the sky change colour from above the clouds.

Christmas by the Ocean

Enjoy beachfront dinners, festive light displays and relaxed celebrations with a Spanish twist.

Where to Stay in Tenerife

Iberostar Selection Anthelia – Costa Adeje

A luxurious family resort offering outstanding entertainment, spacious rooms, and excellent gastronomy.

Why families love it:

• Splash pools
• Daily activities
• Beautiful beachfront location
• Family-oriented Christmas programmes

Jamie Wake Travel works closely with Tenerife hotels to provide exclusive festive offers — ask for our current availability.

Austria – A Storybook Christmas in the Alps

If you want a European Christmas full of charm, snowy slopes and cosy Alpine traditions, Austria ticks every box.

Why Austria Works for Family Christmas Holidays

Austria is perfect for families who enjoy winter sports or simply want to soak in the atmosphere of storybook villages, Christmas markets and mountain scenery.

Best Festive Experiences

Skiing in Snow-Sure Resorts

Austria’s ski schools are renowned for being friendly, patient and perfectly suited to beginners.

For families keen to try something new on the snow, our beginner’s guide to cross-country skiing offers friendly tips for first-time skiers of all ages.

Christmas Market Magic

Warm up with hot chocolate or warm pastries while browsing handmade decorations and gifts.

Families who love festive lights and traditional winter charm may also enjoy exploring the European Christmas Markets, which offer magical atmospheres similar to Austria’s alpine towns.

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides

A magical experience that feels like stepping into a winter fairy tale.

If your family loves playful winter fun, you might also enjoy reading about global Snow Holidays and the unique ways different countries celebrate snowy traditions.

Where to Stay in Austria

Hotel Alpenkrone – Filzmoos

A charming family-run hotel boasting mountain views, a welcoming atmosphere and easy access to skiing.

Why families love it:

• Quiet village ideal for families
• Trail access perfect for children
• Cosy rooms with Alpine charm
• Indoor pool for après-ski relaxation

Want a snowy Christmas without the crowds? Jamie Wake Travel can help you find hidden-gem Austrian resorts and secure unbeatable prices.

How to Choose the Right Family Christmas Holiday

With so many wonderful options available, choosing the perfect Family Christmas Holiday can feel overwhelming. The key is understanding what matters most to your family: is it snow, sunshine, relaxation, adventure or a mix of everything?

Questions to Help You Decide

Do you want a traditional or alternative Christmas?
Snowy Lapland or warm Maldives? Your answer sets the tone for the whole holiday.

How active do you want to be?
Theme parks and ski resorts offer full-on itineraries. Beach destinations deliver relaxation.

What’s your family’s ideal temperature?
Some love crisp winter air; others prefer swims and sunshine.

What age are your children?
Younger children may prefer gentle activities, while teens love water sports and adventure parks.

Do you want all-inclusive simplicity or flexible dining?
All-inclusive resorts are brilliant for predictable budgeting.



Jamie Wake Travel can talk you through pros, cons and costs across a huge range of festive options — saving you time, stress and guesswork.

Jamie Says:

Whether you dream of twinkling snow, beachside bliss or thrilling theme parks, Christmas is the perfect excuse to treat your family to something unforgettable. With ATOL protection, Supplier Failure Insurance and personalised support from someone who genuinely cares about your holiday, you’re always in safe hands.”

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Planning Family Christmas Holidays

Every year, we see families facing the same festive planning pitfalls — all easily avoidable with a bit of knowledge or expert advice. Here are the most common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

1. Leaving It Too Late

Christmas is one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Lapland, Maldives and Orlando can fill up a year in advance.

2. Underestimating Travel Time

Long flights may not suit younger children unless planned with care — including breaks, transfers and realistic downtime.

3. Overpacking the Itinerary

It’s tempting to cram in every festive activity, but children often need rest days. The best Christmas holidays balance magic and relaxation.

4. Choosing the Wrong Meal Plan

All-inclusive is often excellent value at Christmas. Self-catering can work too — but only if you genuinely want to cook!

5. Forgetting Weather Realities

Snow destinations can experience delays; warm destinations can be humid. Planning around the climate helps avoid surprises.

A specialist agent like Jamie Wake Travel can help you avoid all of these common issues — making your festive break simple, smooth and unforgettable.

What to Pack for Family Christmas Holidays

What you pack depends on your destination, but a few essentials make any Family Christmas Holiday more comfortable, more enjoyable and far less stressful.

For Snowy Destinations (Lapland, Austria)

• Thermal base layers
• Waterproof gloves and boots
• Insulated trousers
• Wool socks
• Neck warmers and hats
• Spare gloves for children
• Portable hand warmers
• Moisturising lip balm and skin cream
• Power bank for cold weather (batteries drain faster)

For Sunshine Destinations (Maldives, Tenerife)

• UV swimwear for children
• High-factor SPF
• Light cotton clothing
• Water shoes
• Snorkel sets (optional)
• Aloe vera gel
• Travel fan or cooling towel

For Any Destination

• Christmas jumpers or festive outfits
• Travel documents printed + digital
• Snacks for travel days
• Reusable water bottles
• Chargers and adapters
• A small first-aid kit
• Christmas stockings for a magical morning abroad

Packing thoughtfully makes your festive break smoother and helps the holiday start as soon as you leave home.

How Jamie Wake Travel Tailors Your Family Christmas Holiday

No two families want the same Christmas — and that’s why tailor-made travel matters. At Jamie Wake Travel, your festive holiday isn’t picked from a shelf. We start with your priorities and build something around you, piece by piece.

Whether you want a private Santa visit in Lapland, an overwater villa in the Maldives, or a stress-free theme park itinerary in Orlando, we tailor the details to suit your family’s pace, personality and budget.

You’ll receive expert guidance, clear explanations, trusted advice and complete ATOL protection — giving you the confidence to dream big and travel easy.

Those dreaming of even more snowy inspiration can browse our round-up of magical winter holidays, featuring destinations ideal for December family travel.

Booking Protections You Can Rely On

When you book your Family Christmas Holiday with Jamie Wake Travel, you enjoy complete peace of mind:

• ATOL protection on qualifying holidays
• Supplier Failure Insurance for added security
• Trusted partnerships with reputable tour operators and airlines
• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Dedicated aftercare before, during and after travel

Our mission is simple: to help you travel with confidence, joy and total reassurance.

Why Book Your Family Christmas Holiday with Jamie Wake Travel?

At Jamie Wake Travel, your holiday is never “off the shelf”. It’s crafted around you — your family, your tastes, your dreams and your budget. With full ATOL protection, Supplier Failure Insurance, and expert guidance at every step, your Christmas escape will be safe, memorable and completely stress-free.

Whether you want Lapland magic, tropical sunshine in the Maldives, an adventure in Orlando, or a cosy Alpine retreat, we’ll help you find the perfect option — or design something bespoke using our holiday search tool. After all, your Christmas should be as unique as you are.

You can reach us on 01495 400005 or send through an enquiry form anytime. Let’s create a festive holiday your family will remember forever.

Frequently Asked Questions: Family Christmas Holidays