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The holidays can be such a whirlwind—shopping, decorating, baking, and everything in between. While these activities are festive, they often leave us feeling stretched thin. That’s why creating a holiday bucket list can be a game-changer. It keeps your focus on the activities that truly matter to you, ensuring you actually enjoy the season instead of just surviving it.
But let’s be real: not all bucket lists get completed. Some end up as wishful thinking instead of actionable plans. Here’s how to make a holiday bucket list that’s not only meaningful but also realistic and achievable.
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Start by Prioritizing What Matters
The first step is identifying what really makes the holidays special for you. Think about past holiday seasons—what memories make you smile? For some, it’s baking cookies with family, while for others, it’s taking a quiet moment to sip cocoa by the fire.
List the activities that mean the most to you. Be honest with yourself. If decorating a dozen gingerbread houses sounds more stressful than fun, skip it! Focus on what brings you joy, not what feels like an obligation.
Be Realistic About Time and Energy
It’s easy to get overly ambitious with a bucket list, but the holidays already come with built-in busyness. To avoid overwhelm, think about how much time you realistically have.
For instance, if weekends are your only free time, limit the number of activities to one or two per weekend. This way, you’ll actually enjoy the things you do instead of rushing through them.
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Break It Down into Categories
To make your list feel balanced, divide it into categories. This keeps it from feeling overwhelming and ensures a mix of fun, relaxation, and tradition. Some ideas include:
- Festive Outings: Visit a holiday market, go ice skating, or drive around to see Christmas lights.
- At-Home Fun: Have a movie marathon, bake holiday treats, or tackle a DIY craft.
- Giving Back: Volunteer, donate toys, or write cards for service members or nursing home residents.
- Simple Joys: Drink cocoa by the tree, light a holiday-scented candle, or watch the sunrise on a quiet morning.
Having categories makes it easier to see your options and keeps the list from feeling like a chore.
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Add Traditions You Already Love
If you have holiday traditions you look forward to each year, include them on your list! These activities are often the easiest to accomplish since they’re already part of your routine.
For example, one of my favorite traditions is riding around to look at Christmas lights with hot cocoa in hand. It’s simple, requires no planning, and brings endless joy. If you already have those go-to moments, write them down—they deserve a spot on the list.
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Keep It Short and Sweet
A holiday bucket list doesn’t have to be long to be meaningful. In fact, keeping it short makes it more likely you’ll complete it. Aim for 10 to 15 items max.
It’s better to fully enjoy a few special activities than to cram in so many that you can’t appreciate any of them.
Make It Visible
Out of sight, out of mind! Once your list is done, put it somewhere you’ll see it often. Hang it on the fridge, pin it to a bulletin board, or add it to your planner.
This small step makes a big difference in ensuring you follow through. You’ll be reminded of your goals daily, and crossing off completed items will feel incredibly satisfying.
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Share the Fun
The holidays are all about togetherness, so invite others to join you in completing your bucket list. Whether it’s your family, friends, or partner, shared experiences create the best memories.
For instance, baking cookies is more fun when little hands help with the sprinkles. Watching movies feels cozier when everyone is piled up on the couch together. Sharing these moments turns your list into something more meaningful.
Give Yourself Grace
Remember, the goal of a holiday bucket list isn’t perfection. It’s about savoring the season and making time for what truly matters. If you don’t check off every item, that’s okay.
Sometimes the best moments are the unplanned ones—spontaneous snowball fights, surprise visits, or simply sitting in the glow of the Christmas tree. Leave room for flexibility and let the season unfold naturally.
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Final Thoughts
Creating a holiday bucket list can bring so much joy and intention to the season. By focusing on what matters, being realistic, and keeping it simple, you’ll actually complete it—and enjoy every step along the way.
So grab a pen, pour some cocoa, and start brainstorming. This year, let your bucket list guide you toward a holiday filled with love, laughter, and memories you’ll cherish forever.
Happy list-making—and happy holidays!
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.
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