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Thanksgiving Is the Perfect Time to Start Your Countdown
The moment Thanksgiving ends, holiday excitement kicks into high gear. Instead of letting December sneak up on you, why not turn that energy into something intentional and joyful?
Starting a holiday countdown right after Thanksgiving helps families slow down, soak in the season, and make room for memory-making every single day. Whether you're counting down to Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or New Year’s, these ideas can help spark lasting traditions that your kids will look forward to year after year.
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What Is a Holiday Countdown?
A holiday countdown is a simple way to track the days leading up to your family’s favorite celebration. Think of it like an advent calendar but with activities, not just chocolate.
You can start small, with one daily tradition, or build a full calendar that lasts from the weekend after Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve. The key is to make it work for your family and schedule fun, not pressure.
Why Start at Thanksgiving?
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It creates structure during a busy time of year.
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It extends the holiday magic in a meaningful way.
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It gives kids something to look forward to every single day.
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It allows your family to focus on connection, not just consumption.
Holiday Countdown Activities to Start at Thanksgiving
Here are fun, low-pressure ideas your family can start on Thanksgiving Day and enjoy all season long.
| Day/Week |
Countdown Activity/Idea |
Why It Works |
What You'll Need |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving Day | Write one thing you’re thankful for and add it to a Gratitude Jar. | Sets a tone of reflection and gratitude. | Jar, paper slips, pens. |
| Day After Thanksgiving | Hang or create a countdown calendar. | Builds visual excitement and structure. | String, envelopes, clothespins, or a premade one. |
| Saturday After | Decorate together—tree, lights, mantle. | Kicks off the season as a group. | Ornaments, lights, music playlist. |
| Sunday After | Family holiday movie night. | Brings everyone together and slows the pace. | Blankets, snacks, favorite movie. |
| Weeknight 1 | Make a Kindness Jar with small acts of giving. | Teaches generosity and daily intention. | Jar and kindness prompts. |
| Weekend #1 | DIY Ornament Crafting. | Encourages creativity and memory-making. | Simple craft supplies or kits. |
| Weeknight 2 | Drive around to see holiday lights with cocoa. | Adds simple magic to an everyday evening. | Cocoa, thermos, car playlist. |
| Weekend #2 | Bake and deliver treats to neighbors. | Builds a sense of giving and community. | Cookie ingredients, gift tags. |
| December 1 | Start a holiday book countdown (unwrap one each night). | Easy nightly wind-down time with meaning. | Books (new, old, or library), wrapping paper. |
| Any Weeknight | Share favorite holiday memories over dinner. | Keeps storytelling and connection alive. | Just conversation (maybe photos, too). |
| December Weekend | Make a holiday bucket list of what matters most. | Prioritizes what’s meaningful to your family. | Paper, chalkboard, or whiteboard. |
| Final Weekend Before Christmas | Indoor PJ party and movie night under the lights. |
Adds playfulness before the busy holiday week. |
Pajamas, popcorn, sleeping bags. |
And don’t forget the most important tradition of all, your Santa photo!
Make it part of your countdown by booking your visit early to avoid the holiday rush and guarantee that magical moment for your kids.
Visit www.whereissanta.com to make your reservation!
When you start your countdown at Thanksgiving, you’re setting the tone for a holiday season filled with purpose, connection, and joy. These simple, repeatable moments become the things your kids talk about years from now, and the traditions they’ll pass on.
So after you clear the Thanksgiving dishes, hang up your countdown and get ready to make the most magical season truly memorable, one day at a time.
