ML Interest Tag: reindeer

The Ultimate Ugly Christmas Sweater Guide for the Whole Family (Pets, Too!)

by Kate Cartia

Ugly, but make it fashion. Ugly Christmas sweaters are here.

There’s nothing as iconic as the ugly Christmas sweater. Oh, sure, they started out being worn un-ironically (over turtlenecks and paired with a festive brooch, right? We know you’re picturing it now.), but they’ve become a seasonal staple that isn’t going anywhere. Have you been resisting this trend? It’s time to embrace it. Do you already have a collection of jolly jumpers? We’re ready to help you add to it. Either way, these sweaters are the icing on the Christmas cake (Yule log?). Parties, Christmas Day, casual Friday…you need one. Or two. Whatever.

Hilariously ugly to adorably snuggly, this is the ultimate sweater guide. Oh, and if you hate sweaters, or live somewhere that it just would be miserable to wear one, we thought of that, too. There’s tees, sweatshirts, button-downs, and even an apron in here. For adults, for kids, and for pets—we made sure to include anyone who needs some extra holiday style. And make sure to note shipping cut-off dates! It’s coming fast.

For the Adults

'A Christmas Story' Sweater

Fun.com

Is there anything more iconic than A Christmas Story? We'll wait in this fun sweater while you think.

'A Christmas Story' Sweater ($34.99)—Buy Here!

Mele Kalikimaka Sweater

Fun.com

Sand and Santa? We have no complaints. Even in the coldest climates, you can bring a little Hawaiian holiday into your days.

Mele Kalikimaka Sweater ($9.99+)—Buy Here!

Merry Christmas Tacky Tassels Sweater

Amazon.com

Tastefully tacky, this one is a lot of fun (and actually, it's a super flattering silhouette).

Merry Christmas Tacky Tassels Sweater ($44.95)—Buy Here!

Llama Christmas Sweater

Amazon

Fa-la-la-la-llama, And yes. He has reindeer antlers. Of course.

Llama Christmas Sweater ($28.37)—Buy Here!

Tasteless Tinsel Sweater

Amazon

Get ready to compete with the actual Christmas tree in this one!

Tasteless Tinsel Sweater ($59.95)—Buy Here!

Too Hot for Sweaters Sweater

Amazon.com

If you run a little hot, or your holidays aren't snowy, this tee has the same sentiment as a classic sweater but less...sweaty.

Too Hot for Sweaters Sweater ($19.95)—Buy Here!

Ugly Christmas Hoodie

Amazon

Who doesn't love a holiday hoodie? We sure do.

Ugly Christmas Hoodie ($38.99) Amazon—Buy Here!

Skiing Santa Sweater

Amazon

Santa ready for the slopes is as appropriate as it comes!

Skiing Santa Sweater ($30.41+)—Buy Here!

T-Rex Sweater

Amazon

Maybe you didn't know, but dinosaurs love the holidays.

T-Rex Sweater ($67.95), Amazon—Buy Here!

Ugly Christmas Shirt

Amazon

If sweaters and t-shirts aren't your cup of egg nog, may we suggest this dapper button-down?

Ugly Christmas Shirt ($28.95)—Buy Here!

Metallic Christmas Light Sweater

Amazon

This one falls on the cute side of things, and we'd suggest pairing it with faux leather leggings!

Metallica Christmas Light Sweater ($54.95)—Buy Here!

'Star Wars; Christmas Sweatshirt

Amazon

A (Christmas) lightsaber battle is ideal for any Star Wars fan.

Star Wars Christmas Sweatshirt ($41.95)—Buy Here!

Don't Stop Believin' Christmas Sweatshirt

Amazon

You heard what Journey said. Bet you didn't know that it doubled as a Christmas song.

Don't Stop Believin' Christmas Sweatshirt ($27.79+)—Buy Here!

Reindeer Sweater

Amazon

Another more classic than ugly sweater, we think it's pretty cute and 100% party-ready.

Reindeer Sweater ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Festivus Christmas Sweatshirt

Amazon

Any Seinfeld fan will absolutely appreciate this sweatshirt.

Festivus Christmas Sweatshirt ($34.99-$36.99)—Buy Here!

Reindeer Gainz Christmas Sweater

Amazon

Look, if you're going to continue rockin' the gym through the season, you should absolutely brag about it.

Reindeer Gainz Christmas Sweater ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Snowman Christmas Sweater Dress

Amazon

The scarf belt is what really pulls it together, we think.

Snowman Christmas Sweater Dress ($49.95)—Buy Here!

Baseball Santa Sweater

Amazon

Who's ready for serious reindeer games?

Baseball Santa Sweater ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Unicorn Christmas Cardigan Sweater

Amazon

Uh, Christmas is magical and so are unicorns so this all adds up.

Unicorn Christmas Cardigan Sweater ($49.95)—Buy Here!

Festive Flamingo Christmas Sweater

Amazon

This is adorable, and not just because our shopping editor happens to have a thing for flamingos. 

Festive Flamingo Christmas Sweater ($49.95)—Buy Here!

Retro Santa Sweater

Amazon

This is...the worst thing we've ever seen. And also the greatest. It's a lot. So...pretty much the perfect ugly Christmas sweater.

Retro Santa Sweater ($49.99)—Buy Here!

Christmas Sweater Apron

Amazon

Flaunt your baking skills and festive fashion with this one.

Christmas Sweater Apron ($21.00)—Buy Here!

Pink Christmas Tree Sweater

Target

If you'd rather be a bit more subtle in your sweater selection, this is the one for you.

Pink Christmas Tree Sweater ($32.99)—Buy Here!

For the Kids

Pizza Christmas Sweater

Amazon

Not all kiddos like traditional holiday food, and we're totally fine with that!

Pizza Christmas Sweater ($44.95)—Buy Here!

Santa & Snowman Hoodie

Amazon

For kiddos who don't like how sweaters feel, this soft hoodie is just 'ugly' enough.

Santa & Snowman Hoodie ($13.99)—Buy Here!

Santa Hat Christmas Dress

Amazon

We aren't excluding dresses from the list, especially not when they resemble a Christmas tree that Cindy Lou Who would wear.

Santa Hat Christmas Dress, ($21.95)—Buy Here!

Construction Christmas Sweater

Amazon

The yellow and black construction cone "trees" got us.

Construction Christmas Sweater ($29.99)—Buy Here!

Santa Unicorn Christmas Sweatshirt

Amazon

The non-traditional colors really make this one pop.

Santa Unicorn Christmas Sweatshirt ($26.99)—Buy Here!

Sea Sleigher Sweater

Amazon

We would've called this one 'Santa Jaws' but it's fine. Still cute.

Sea Sleigher Sweater ($29.95)—Buy Here!

Christmas Present Sweater

Amazon

Our kids are our favorite gifts, to be fair.

Christmas Present Sweater ($29.99)—Buy Here!

 

For the Pets

Oh Norman! Cozy AF Holiday Sweater

Oh Norman!

Oh Norman! is a dog care line founded by Kaley Cuoco, and has the cutest gifts for dog lovers (all available for under $50). There's even pet owner goodies, too, and a portion of all purchases are donated to animal rescue organization. That's a gift that keeps on giving.

Oh Norman! Cozy AF Holiday Sweater ($35.00)—Buy Here!

Antler Pet Christmas Sweater

Amazon

This one comes with a hood that has attache antlers. Need we say more?

Antler Pet Christmas Sweater ($18.99)—Buy Here!

Christmas Tree Pet Christmas Sweater

Amazon

What if they wore a Christmas tree instead of destroying one?

Christmas Tree Pet Christmas Sweater ($12.99)—Buy Here!

Santa Riding Pet Sweater

Amazon

Terrible. Absolutely terrible. And so good (just read all the reviews, actually).

Santa Riding Pet Sweater ($23.99)—Buy Here!

Pet Wreath Scrunchie Collar

Amazon

This is a great alternative for furry family members who don't do well with pet clothes.

Pet Wreath Scrunchie Collar ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Gingerbread Playhouse Pet Sweater

Target

Gingerbread pretty much scream the holidays. Uh...bark the holidays?

Gingerbread Playhouse Pet Sweater ($13.00)—Buy Here!

Christmas Trees Pet Hoodie

Target

For dogs who get warm easily, or if you live in a mild climate, this sporty pet hoodie is the perfect way to go.

Christmas Trees Pet Hoodie ($10.00)—Buy Here!

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

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10 Cute Christmas Crafts That Use Baby’s Hand & Footprints

by Aimee Della Bitta

A holiday art project featuring your baby’s handprint or footprint is a fun, festive way to capture the moment

When there’s a new baby in the home, it’s practically a requirement that their tiny toes and fingers make their way into some sort of cute keepsake. Even if Christmas footprint art isn’t your thing (right now anyway), we’re betting the grandparents will think it’s the absolute best. We’ve rounded up our favorite ideas, and, one day, when the kids are grown, you’ll look back and marvel at how far they’ve come.

Cardboard Christmas Footprint Ornaments

So, these might not be the fanciest Christmas footprint art projects we’ve seen, but they are adorable, and you can make them with supplies you probably already have at home.

Mistle-toes Ornament

How adorable is this ornament? This Christmas footprint art project will win over even the most skeptical of parents. Check out this easy-to-follow tutorial from Midget Momma.

Thumbprint Heart Ornaments

Instead of little toes, use little fingerprints to create this adorable oven-baked clay snowflake with a heart in the middle. We also love the use of vibrant colors that don’t scream ‘holiday season.’ Get the tutorial from Made to Be a Momma.

Footprint Ornament Tile

A cute Christmas footprint art project
Make the Best of Everything

Capture those little piggies just as they are this holiday season with this Christmas footprint art project. We love the sweet saying that goes on the back of this tile ornament; find it and a full tutorial at Make the Best of Everything.

Salt Dough Ornaments

Christmas footprint art is a fun gift for grandparents
Viva Veltora

Create Santa and Rudolph using some salt dough, paint, and your child's hand and foot. Sturdier than paper and festive enough to display every year, these adorable ornaments are a great project to help you and your child get into the holiday spirit. Visit Viva Veltora for a simple tutorial.

Wooden Handprint Ornaments

Rustic Trims

To create these wooden ornaments, you'll need a little help from Etsy. You trace your child's hand, stamp it, or take a photocopy of it. Then you send that plus your child's hand measurements to the Etsy shop MadeWithMamaCo, and they'll craft a wooden ornament of your child's hand. They also burn your child's name and age into the wood and finish the ornament with a twine ribbon for hanging on your tree.

Christmas Penguin Plate

This penguin plate is a cute Christmas footprint art idea
Fun Handprint Art

Shake it up with a penguin plate instead of a footprint ornament. It's just as cute and can be displayed along with other Christmas decorations. The secret is all in the type of paint you buy. Get the details from Fun Handprint Art. 

Angel Handprint

Christmas footprint art angel
That Artist Woman

Your child is always a little angel, of course, and this DIY craft from That Artist Woman helps you prove it. It's easy to do and will be cherished forever. While your child's hands and feet are covered in paint, make multiples of this design to give to grandparents and other loved ones.

Mistletoes Printable Art

HappyHeartPrintables

Here's an easy way to keep it simple. Purchase a digital download of this template from the Etsy shop HappyHeartPrintables, and then break out the paint and your baby's little feet. Add your child's name and the year, then pop into an inexpensive frame for personalized decor or a fun present for grandparents!

Handprint & Footprint Kit

This clever kit from Bubzi Co makes it easy to preserve your child's tiny little toes and fingers forever. The kit comes with clay you insert into the frame and then gently press your child's hand and foot into. Pop two photos in the photo spots and your keepsake is done. You can buy the kit on Amazon ($18). Pro tip: If you suspect your child will be too squirmy or squeamish for the clay, wait until they're asleep to take their prints.

 

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I’m a Single Mom. I Won’t Let Santa Take Credit for the Good Gifts

By Nicole Pecoraro

I want my kids to know that I worked hard to make sure that they got that one thing on their list they really wanted.

Like many, Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. It got especially magical after I had kids. I can’t wait to see their little faces light up on Christmas morning with delight as they burst out of their bedrooms with anticipation to see if Santa actually came.

You know, the man in red with the jolly disposition and the mystical elves that make toys from scratch and report back to the North Pole every night fueled by “cheer.” The man who somehow manages to make it across the entire world in one night and lives solely off of milk and cookies and Christmas spirit.

I love Santa. I love the idea of Santa. And I love that my kids think that Santa is magic. It adds an extra element to Christmas that fills them (and me) with excitement every year. What I refuse to play into is that Santa shows up with the expensive, hard-to-find gifts, while mom and dad bring things like socks and PJs.

The mere concept of a loving Santa and his reindeer helpers is one that I think brings hope and enchantment to kids’ lives during the holidays. After all, if we can get them to believe that there is a person in this world who flies with wingless, hoofed animals (one of which has a light bulb on his face), lives in a hidden land that you can’t find on a map, and has an entire staff of tiny, pointy-eared people who have not yet managed to go on strike for being forced into overtime in dangerous conditions like the freezing cold… well, I think we’ve done our jobs.

Isn’t that enough?

I work my butt off every year to make sure my kids have a good Christmas. To make sure that they are delivered just as many presents as their friends and that they aren’t missing any “hot items” they desperately asked for.

Related: Behind Every Magical Holiday Moment Is an Exhausted Mom

For a month straight, I live off of coffee and evergreen fumes trying to scrape together pennies to bring my little ones the most joy I can on the mind-blowing morning called Christmas. I become a gift ninja: assembling, wrapping, and hiding. On Christmas Eve, I morph into a woman who doesn’t need sleep or hydration to survive and spend hours setting up an entire display for my kids to enjoy when they wake up at the crack of dawn because… SANTA!

Did I mention I love Christmas? I really do.

It’s all worth it. It is. But I will be damned if I am going to let the big guy in the red suit take all of the credit for the gift that I had to fist-fight someone over in Target because it was the last one on the shelf. NO. WAY.

I want my kids to one day replicate the magic of Christmas in their own homes every year. But I also want them to appreciate the season for what matters. Gifts are great. Getting gifts as a kid is one of the most exciting parts of Christmas, but plenty of kids do not get gifts—and if they do, they may not be as cool, high-tech, or expensive as some of the ones my kids have received over the years.

How do I explain to them that some kids (the ones who really need the miracle) don’t get what is on their list from a man who theoretically brings presents to all kids who are good? Do I tell them those kids are bad? What makes those kids less deserving? Nothing.

And how do I explain that if we have had a year when money is tight, Santa suddenly doesn’t have the “disposable income” to supply the mountain of gifts he had in recent years? I can’t. Not without them losing some faith in the magic of the holiday.

Plus, I’m trying to raise responsible and grateful humans who understand the value of material things and what it takes to make and spend money. Christmas happens to throw all of that out the window for the weeks leading up to the big day and at least a good month after.

I want my kids to know that I worked hard to make sure that they got that one thing on their list they really wanted. That even though I might have missed a few important sports games or school events, it’s because I was working—working to make sure we have a roof over our heads, that our bills got paid, and also so that I could do things like buy them that gaming system they’d been pining for.

I want my kids to understand that Christmas is magical and that there are two people who make it so: Santa and me.

But in taking credit for the extra-special gifts, I have a better explanation for the other kids who may not get the same number or types of presents as they do and why our Christmas haul may vary from year to year. Plus, I don’t have to stress about remembering which gifts came from Santa and which didn’t when something doesn’t work correctly and I have to come up with some outlandish story about how I’m going to phone into the North Pole to get a replacement.

If you ask me, the magic of Santa lies in my kids’ believing: believing that there is someone watching them, rooting for them, and willing to dazzle them with his abilities every year because he loves them. He does it all in one night because he’s spectacular. And he brings things they will love and play with for the whole year (hopefully).

But the big-ticket stuff—the gift that they requested for months, the one that cost a small fortune and will bring the biggest smile and the most thanks? That one comes from Mom. After all, Santa has a group of elves to do his bidding—I’m all on my own.

This post originally appeared on Mom Transparenting.

I'm a single mom of three and realtor living in a suburb of Chicago. In my abundant spare time I like to write about parenting, family, divorce and raising a young transgender child. I'm just trying to raise kids who know how to turn off lights when they leave a room. 

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6 Ways Your Little Elf Can Talk to Santa This Christmas

by Karly Wood

Trying to figure out a way to call Santa? Here’s everything you need to know

Even if you can’t have your one-on-one with Santa at the mall, you can still get your time with him. There are lots of fun options, and we’ve rounded up our favorite ways to get Santa’s phone number (many of them are free!). Here’s where you’ll learn how to get in touch with Father Christmas at the touch of your smartphone, web browser, or even your home assistant.

Santa Hotline

how to call Santa's phone number
Kraken Images via Unsplash

It couldn’t get easier to call Santa's phone number: all you need is a phone to dial up Santa’s Hotline. This free, international number connects kids directly to a voicemail box where they can leave messages at the North Pole. Available throughout the United States (as well as 13 countries including France, Sweden, and Australia), it’s a simple concept that will add that little extra pinch of magic dust to your holiday. Simply dial +1-319-527-2680 or +1-712-770-4404 and get talking!

Related: 8 Ways to Keep Track of Santa This Christmas (We’ll Show You How!)

Call Santa with Alexa

Amazon

If you have an Echo Dot Kids or FreeTime on Alexa, all you have to say is “Alexa, call Santa.” You'll hear from elves, Jack Frost, and even Santa himself (Each time it may be different, and you'll often get holiday jokes!). To make sure you're set up for FreeTime, in your Alexa app, select the Devices icon, then select the compatible Alexa device for which you would like to enable Amazon FreeTime on Alexa. Then tap FreeTime, and follow the on-screen prompts to complete your setup.

Message from Santa! App

get a message from santa's phone number
Apple App Store

The Message from Santa app has tons of features! Parents can help their kids start a video message from Santa, receive a phone call, call Santa's voicemail, and even text the jolly old elf himself. This is a free app (with in-app purchases for additional features) and is available for iOS and Android devices.

Google Home Call Santa

Paul Agrusti via YouTube

Use your Google Assistant and Google Home device to call Santa! All you have to say is "Hey Google, call Santa" and you'll get to hear about how Santa Claus is busy rehearsing for a musical concert—but he only knows one song and needs your help! Kids can also make a call on a Smart Display to see all the fun album covers from the North Pole bands.

Christmas Dialer

how to get santa's phone number
iStock

Has little Johnny and Susie been good this year? Now you can let Santa do the asking! When you use Christmas Dialer, you can choose for either Santa or one of his elves to place a call to your child. Select one of four different messages, including, "be good," "on my list," "something special," or "sweet dreams." Parents can use the pre-populated messages or type their own and then call Santa right away. 

Portable North Pole

santa phone number
Portable North Pole

The Portable North Pole's website and mobile app let creative parents like yourself create customized Santa greetings on video to awe and excite your wee ones. With a few screen taps, answer questions about your child (or children—Santa can address your kids individually or as a group!) and upload some favorite pictures to create a charming message from St. Nick that arrives by email.

Make sure to capture all the memories—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

 

 

 

 

 

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41 Jolly Holiday and Christmas Jokes for Kids and Adults

by Kate Loweth

These hilarious Christmas jokes will keep the whole family laughing for hours

The weather outside may be frightful but there’s nothing like some rolling laughter and hilarious Christmas jokes to warm you right up (except, maybe cocoa). If you’re looking for the funniest Christmas jokes for kids, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got Santa jokes, elf jokes, snowman jokes, and when you’re done, be sure to get them giggling with our ultimate list of jokes for kids, funny dad jokes, and birthday jokes.

Holiday and Christmas Jokes

1. What should you give your parents at Christmas?

A list of what you want.

2. What did the gingerbread man put under his blankets?

A cookie sheet.

3. Who delivers Christmas presents to elephants?

Elephanta Claus.

4. How does Rudolph know when Christmas is coming?

He refers to his calen-deer.

5. What happens if you eat Christmas decorations?

You get tinselitus

6. Why was the little boy so cold on Christmas morning?

Because it was Decembrrrrr!

7. What do you get when you cross an iPhone with a Christmas tree?

A pine-apple!

8. What comes at the end of Christmas Day?

The letter “Y!”

9. Why do mummies like Christmas so much?

Because of all the wrapping!

10. Why wouldn’t the Christmas tree stand up?

It had no legs.

11. Why didn’t Rudolph get a good report card?

Because he went down in history.

12. Knock knock
Who's there?
Donut.
Donut, who?
Donut open the presents until Christmas! 

13. What is every parent’s favorite Christmas carol?

Silent Night.

14. What's the difference between the Christmas alphabet and the regular alphabet?

The Christmas alphabet has Noel.

15. How do chickens dance at a holiday party?

Chick to chick.

16. What's a Christmas tree's favorite candy?

Orna-mints.

17. Which reindeer always gets sent to the principal's office? 

Rude-olf.

18. Where do reindeer go for coffee? 

Star-bucks.

19. Why did the little boy bring his Christmas tree to the hair salon?

It needs a little trim.

20. Why didn't the tree get a present?

He was knotty.

21. What do grouchy sheep say during the holidays?

Baaaaaa humbug!

22. What is a cow’s favorite holiday?

Moo-years Day.

23. How do sheep wish each other happy holidays?

Merry Christmas to ewe.

Related: 23 Festive Holiday Games You Need to Play with the Kids

Elf Jokes

little boy laughing at Christmas jokes, elf jokes, and santa jokes
iStock

24. What happened to the thief who stole a Christmas calendar?

He got 12 months.

25. What does an elf study in school?

The elfabet.

26. What do you call a greedy elf?

Elfish!

27. What is an elf’s favorite sport?

North-pole vaulting.

28. What kind of music do elves like?

"Wrap" music.

29. What does an elf work on after school?

His gnomework.

30. What kind of car do elves drive in the off-season?

A minivan.

 

Related: 12 Cool Amazon Alexa Christmas Games & Skills for Kids

Santa Jokes

iStock

31. What do you call Santa when he stops moving?

Santa Pause

32. What does Mrs. Claus say to Santa when there are clouds in the sky?

It looks like rain, deer.

33. What does Santa suffer from whenever he gets stuck in a chimney?

Santa Claustrophobia

34. What's another name for Santa's Little Helpers?

Subordinate clauses.

35. What do you get when Santa plays detective?

Santa clues!

36. How much did Santa's sleigh cost?

Nothing! It was on the house.

37. What does Santa use to keep his house sparkling clean?

Comet.

38. What's Santa's favorite candy? 

Jolly Ranchers

 

Related: 11 Christmas Minute to Win It Games the Kids Will Love

Snow and Snowman Jokes

family making a snowman and laughing at Christmas jokes and snowman jokes
iStock

39. Where does a snowperson keep their money?

In a snow bank.

40. What do snowmen eat for breakfast?

Snowflakes. (or Frosted Flakes!)

41. What do snowmen take when the sun gets too hot?

A chill pill.

42. What did one snowman say to another snowman?

You’re cool.

43. What kind of ball doesn’t bounce?

A snowball.

44. What do you get if you mix a vampire with a snowperson?

Frostbite!

45. What do you call a snowman with a six-pack?

The abdominal snowman.

46. What falls but never gets hurt?

Snow.

47. What snack should you make for the Snowperson Holiday Party?

Ice Krispy Treats

—Emmerson H., 13

48. What do you call a snowperson in July?

A puddle.

49. What did one snowman say to the other?

Do you smell carrots?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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11 Christmas Minute to Win It Games the Kids Will Love

by Taylor Clifton

These exciting Christmas minute to win it games are the perfect way to beat any boredom this holiday season

If you’re in need of some exciting holiday activities for the kids, look no further. We’ve got Christmas Minute to Win It games that are quick, leave very little mess, and will have everyone laughing until their cheeks hurt. If you’re looking for party games that are more on the elaborate side, check out our favorite family Christmas games, and for party games that aren’t drenched in a holiday theme, check out these other minute-to-win-it games.

What’s a minute to win it game?

Simply put, it’s a 60-second game using items typically found around the house. Participants attempt to see who can finish a challenge first or who can complete a task the most times in under a minute.

How to play

These quick, exciting games are good for parties, of course, but you can also do them with just one or two players! There are three basic ways you can play Minute to Win It Games.

Player vs. timer: In this style, a player races against the clock. They still have just one minute to complete the game and if they do win, you can move on to another game. If they don’t, you can choose to let them try until they do beat the clock or move on to another player.

Player vs. Player: In this version, which works great for small groups, have two people compete against each other (for a minute), and whoever completes the challenge first, wins! This way, you can rotate through your crew at a reasonable pace.

Group Minute to Win It Play: Here’s where you’ll split your group into two teams. Each team decides who goes first, and then those players compete against each other to win! This is fun for teammates too because they’ll be cheering on competitors in each round.

Our Favorite Christmas Minute to Win It Games

1. Christmas Tree Cup Stack
This is a classic Minute to Win It game, but the added challenge of decorating with ornaments. Give the players one minute to stack their cups and place their ornaments—whoever stacks the fastest wins. We recommend you use plastic ornaments for safety and speed.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CJHUUQ6s6P5/?hidecaption=true

2. Candy Cane Connect
Set an empty bowl off to the side and put lots of candy canes on a surface in front of each player. Have each player put a candy cane in their mouth (curl sticking out and plastic still on) and transfer it into the empty bowl. See how many candy canes each team can move in 30 seconds. The player with the most candy canes connected to each other wins!

3. Ornament Roll
Set a starting point and finish line with tape (or a different material) and choose a plastic ornament for each contestant. Have each person use a straw to blow their ornament toward the finish line and whoever crosses it first, wins! If it proves too difficult, try setting a timer for a minute and whoever’s ornament is closest to the finish line at the end, wins.

4. Antler Ring Toss
If you have a set of reindeer antlers lying around, this game will be a blast! Team up in pairs and put the antlers on one team member’s head. The other person will toss inflatable rings (or something similar) onto the antlers. Whoever gets the most rings onto the antlers within a minute, their team wins.

5. Gingerbread Cookie Face
Place a gingerbread cookie (or your favorite holiday cookie) on the child’s forehead. They’ll need to use their facial muscles to move it down their face and into their mouth—without using their hands. What a yummy challenge!

6. Fill Santa’s Beard
Prep a plate of cotton balls or marshmallows and print out a picture of Santa (Make sure he has a big beard!). With a plastic spoon handle in each player’s mouth, they’ll have one minute to fill Santa’s beard with as many cotton balls or marshmallows as possible.

Related: 12 Cool Amazon Alexa Christmas Games & Skills for Kids

 

7. Hot Chocolate Marshmallow Toss
Have players stand back from the table with hot chocolate mugs on it. Give players a designated number of mini marshmallows and see how many the team can throw into the mug in one minute.

8. Marshmallow Stacking
Have players stack as many marshmallows as they can in 30 seconds. You can play this game with regular marshmallows or mini.

9. Snowfall
Each player will need a tissue box, pantyhose, and ten white ping pong balls. Put the ping pong balls in each tissue box. Then, tie the boxes around each player. Kids have one minute to shake out (no hands) as many balls as they can. To make this game more festive, try using plastic ornaments.

10. Snow Scoop
Set two bowls side by side. Fill one bowl with cotton balls and leave the other empty. Each team member will put the end of the handle in their mouth and try to get as many cotton balls from the full bowl to the empty bowl in under a minute. Whoever gets the most from one bowl to the other, wins. This game can also be done with marshmallows.

11. Holiday M&Ms
Fill a plate with M&Ms and set an empty plate next to it. The goal of this game is to use a straw to separate out the holiday colors. Traditionally they are green and red, but use any holiday colors you’d like. Use the straw to transfer as many holiday M&Ms as you can in under a minute. The person who sorts the most onto the empty plate wins.

 

 

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7 Funny Alternatives to Elf on the Shelf to Shake Things Up

by Karly Wood

Bored by that ever-present elf during the holidays? Here’s how to switch it up this year

There’s no pressure like the holidays to create lasting memories for our kids, but some of us aren’t ready to take on the nightly task of moving an elf around the house. Who wants to get out of bed because they forgot to set up an elaborate scene for Santa’s helper, night after night? If you’re looking for funny alternatives to Elf on the Shelf, look no further. We’ve got some funny, kind, and grown-ups only options we think you’ll love.

The Kindness Elves

kindness elves are alternatives to elf on the shelf
The Imagination Tree

As an alternative to the Elf on the Shelf, the Kindness Elves have arrived for the holidays to encourage littles to carry out acts of kindness every day this season. Each bundle comes with two Elves, accessories, a beautifully illustrated Storybook, and the 12 Days of Christmas Kindness ePack to get families spreading kindness in no time. 

Available at The Imagination Tree Store, $59.

Santa's Lazy Gnome

Lazy Gnome

Developed by a tired mom who couldn't keep up with the Elf on the Shelf tradition, Santa's Lazy Gnome is perfect for parents. Santa has hired a gnome to report back to him for his naughty and nice list, which means your family's guy can hang out on the mantle all. Season. Long. WIN! You can order your gnome on Lazy Gnomes for $29.

Shepherd on the Search

Amazon

The Shepherd on the Search ($22) is a faith-filled way to celebrate Christmas. During the Advent season, parents read the story of your shepherd's journey then hide your shepherd! Every year is a new opportunity for your shepherd's journey to start anew and end on Christmas day as the shepherd finds his way to the manger.

North Pole Ninjas

Amazon

The North Pole Ninjas ($6) are all about spreading kindness, and it shows in the beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the ancient legend that the North Pole Ninjas use for new recruits. The kit includes a plush and huggable "sensei" to guide Ninjas on their journey to carry out 50 special tasks, each packed in a special envelope. Your mission? To spread the holiday spirit, kindness, and love. 

Reindeer in Here

Reindeer In Here ($24) comes with a book and plush reindeer that celebrates how being different is normal! Your reindeer is a friend sent by Santa as the first gift of the holiday season and encourages kids to take their new friend on the go, so they can get to know your family and help Santa deliver their Christmas wishes. Created by a dad who wanted a positive Christmas tradition for his children, this tradition celebrates our individuality. Get this funny alternative to the Elf on the Shelf  here..

Mensch on a Bench

Amazon

Hanukkah will have some extra Funukkah with The Mensch on a Bench ($30) hardcover book and a 12-inch plush doll of Moshe the Mensch ($30). (For those not down with the lingo, "mensch" is a Yiddish word that means roughly "a good guy.") Kids will learn the story of Hanukkah with the help of Moshe. Moshe the Mensch tells the story of how he was present at the Temple in the time of Judah and the Maccabees, who defeated the Greeks and watched over the Menorah as everyone slept. Now he can help watch over yours!

Peep On A Perch

Amazon

Now you don’t have to wait until Christmas for a magical friend thanks to Peep On A Perch ($6). That sugar-coated marshmallow chick we all know and love to eat is now in plush form and ready to join your family in the countdown to Easter. Designed to inspire good manners and kindness in kids, the Peep On A Perch works the same as the Elf.

with additional reporting by Shahrzad Warkentin

 

 

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17 Fun Things to Do on Christmas Day in the Bay Area

by Sarah McDonald

Wondering what’s open on Christmas Day in San Francisco? Turns out, there are over 15 fun things to do on this special day in SF

‘Tis the season for quality family time! If you’ve plowed through the presents and the kids need to burn off some of that hot-chocolate-supplied energy, or perhaps your family doesn’t celebrate Christmas and you’re wondering what’s open on Christmas Day? We’ve got a slew of ideas for you—17 to be exact—from where to go on Christmas Day to things that are open on Christmas Day. So whether it’s bowling, catching a movie, or simply strolling through a beautifully lit-up neighborhood, make merry with our guide to what’s open on Christmas Day in San Francisco and beyond. 

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1. Play Vintage Games at Musée Mécanique

Visit one of the world's largest collections of coin-operated antique arcade artifacts. It's open 365 days a year and admission is free. Bonus: you can snag some clam chowder in a bread bowl next door at Boudin and then visit the sea lions at PIER 39.

Pier 45 at the end of Taylor St.
Fisherman's Wharf
San Francisco
Online: museemecanique.com

2. Get Chinese Food 

Follow the lead of the A Christmas Story family and head to Chinatown and grab a delicious bite to eat at one of many amazing restaurants offering up dim sum and hand-pulled noodles. It's the perfect way to make sure the kiddos' bellies are full before moving on to the next activity. While you are there, spend some time at the Willie "Woo Woo" Wong playground which has some amazing art and a dragon-themed climbing structure. 

Online: tinybeans.com

 

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3. Skate at Union Square

Get outside for a family skating session at Union Square’s ice rink, which is open on Christmas Day. All skaters must book online in advance, as tickets are not sold in person. Tickets are $15-$20 per person for general admission and include skate rental.

Union Square
San Francisco
Online: unionsquareicerink.com

4. Bowl at Presidio Bowl

Burn off some of that holiday energy at the Presidio Bowl. The location can’t be beat (heart of the beautiful Presidio of San Francisco) and the menu will please your little ones: hot dogs, hamburgers, and PB&J, and parents will appreciate the wine and beer selection. Open Christmas Eve from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Christmas Day, noon-8 p.m.

93 Moraga Ave.
San Francisco
Online: presidiobowl.com

5. Give Something Back at Glide

Volunteer with a local nonprofit organization such as Glide to serve meals to the needy on Christmas (and many other days, too, if you’re so inclined). Volunteer slots on Dec. 25 typically fill up fast, but if so, there are plenty of other times that you can help.

330 Ellis St.
San Francisco
Online: glide.org

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6. Botany for All at the SF Botanical Garden

Spend all day from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. wandering through the 55 acres of stunning botanical wonder that is the SF Botanical Gardens. Usually free to SF residents only, on Christmas Day it is open and free to all, which means you can bring all your out-of-town guests for a romp at no added costs.

1199 9th Ave.
San Francisco
Online: sfbg.org

7. Explore a Mini Rainforest at the California Academy of Sciences

While you’re at Golden Gate Park, head over to the California Academy of Sciences, which is open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Christmas Day. This unique museum has a rainforest, planetarium, and aquarium, to fill you with wonder about the natural world.

55 Music Concourse Dr.
San Francisco
Online: calacademy.org

8. Dine at the Garden Court Restaurant

Don’t stress about cooking this year. Go out to brunch at the Palace Hotel for a festive three-course prix-fixe served under a 110-year-old glass dome.

2 New Montgomery St.
San Francisco
Online: marriott.com

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9. Visit the Animals at the SF Zoo

The SF Zoo is open all day on Christmas Day, and the animals even get presents! Head out with the kids for a beautiful day outside, climb on the playground, explore the sculpture garden, traipse through the tropical building, ride the carousel, and show off those new holiday scarves! Open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Christmas Day (last admission at 4 p.m.). Regular admission applies.

Sloat Blvd. at The Great Highway
San Francisco
Online: sfzoo.org

10. Take a Hornblower Cruise with Your Crew

Hornblower’s Christmas Day Supper Cruise is a 2.5-hour excursion with a holiday buffet dinner, including coffee, tea, and soda; live entertainment; beer and wine for purchase and seriously breathtaking views of the Bay. Board at 3:30 p.m. for the 4-6.30 p.m. sail, timed perfectly for the Christmas Day sunset. ($135/person). 

Pier 3, Embarcadero
San Francisco
Online: cityexperiences.com

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11. Catch a Drive-In Movie

Make your Christmas Day fun last well into the evening hours. West Wind Drive-In, with locations in Concord and San Jose, is open on Christmas night. Bundle up the family and catch a flick in the comfort of your own car.

Concord
1611 Solano Way
Concord

San Jose
3630 Hillcap Ave.
San Jose
Online: westwinddi.com

12. Take a Drive Down Christmas Tree Lane

The 3200 block of Thompson in Alameda has been celebrating Christmas by putting on an epic lights display every year since the 1930s. Go and check out the neighborhood of 55 houses known throughout the Bay Area as Christmas Tree Lane, and try not to feel too bad about your own efforts. The lights go up on December 3 and stay on until New Year’s Day, as per tradition.

3200-3299 Thompson Ave.
Alameda
Online: facebook.com

13. Skate at the Claremont's Glice Rink

The Claremont in Berkeley has a new eco-friendly Glice Rink, an outdoor rink set amongst dozens of Christmas trees, festive decor, and hundreds of twinkling lights. The synthetic surface requires no water or electricity to run, making it kinder to the environment than regular rinks.

41 Tunnel Rd.
Berkeley
Online: fairmont.com

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14. Christmas Dinner at the Four Seasons

Step away from the oven and let the chef prepare you a lavish five-course feast, complete with a dessert buffet at the Four Seasons restaurant Quattro in Palo Alto.

2050 University Ave.
Palo Alto
Online: fourseasons.com

15. Visit Christmas in the Park

This beloved annual holiday extravaganza in Plaza de Cesar Chavez Park is open on Christmas Day, so your whole brood can don their Christmas sweaters and explore the lights, sounds, and fun at Christmas in the Park. The best part just might be the trees and tiny houses decorated by local school groups, community members, and businesses. And the second best part? It’s free! This year, Christmas in the Park is bringing back last year’s popular drive-thru plus the traditional walk.

194 South Market St.
San Jose
Online: christmasinthepark.org

16. Santa Cruz Holiday Lights

Drive through the Santa Cruz county fairgrounds in a lighted holiday display spectacular—reindeer, snowmen, and the old man himself, Santa! 

2601 E Lake Ave.
Watsonville
Online: tinybeans.com

17. Cirque du Boheme

Prepared to be dazzled by the music, mystery and amazing circus acts of Cirque du Boheme’s brand-new show, “Behind the Mirror”! With shows on Christmas Day, your family can be treated to an enthralling show for a Christmas Day to remember! 

Cornerstone
23570 Arnold Dr.
Sonoma
Online: cirquedeboheme.com

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12 Cool Amazon Alexa Christmas Games & Skills for Kids

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Ask Alexa to pump up the holiday spirit and amuse your family using these fun Amazon Alexa Christmas skills

Want to keep the kids happy and entertained for the rest of the season? Let Alexa delight the children like your own personal holiday elf! All you have to do is ask. We’ve rounded up a few awesome Alexa Christmas skills to make your days and nights with the kids merry and bright—and hopefully out of your hair for a few minutes while “Santa” finishes wrapping all those gifts.

“Alexa, talk to Santa Claus.”

Need some help filling your playlist with Christmas songs? Using the iHeartRadio skill, iHeart Santa, kids can answer a series of questions posed by Santa to have a custom-curated list of holiday songs created for them.

“Alexa, play Christmas music.”

Nothing helps lift your spirits like some jolly Christmas tunes. Just say the word and Alexa will cue up your favorite songs of the season through Amazon Music. Even if you don’t happen to be a Prime Member, you can just enable the Christmas Radio skill and ask Alexa to play it. Bonus tip: ask Alexa to sing you a Christmas carol and the kids will love the response.

"Alexa, open Christmas Song Quiz."

Are you a Christmas Carol master? Step right up and test your knowledge. Alexa will read you lines from Christmas songs and ask you to guess the song titles, or ask you to finish the line. How many can you guess?

“Alexa, ask Christmas Countdown how long until Santa comes.”

If your excited tots wake up each morning in December wondering if Christmas has finally arrived, Alexa can help them keep track with the Christmas Countdown skill.

"Alexa, turn the Christmas tree lights on.”

Whether you want to be able to turn your Christmas lights on and off remotely or you’re hoping to light your home up like you're in the Great Christmas Light Fight, Alexa can help. Plug any light strand into an Alexa-compatible smart outlet and you can control them using your voice. If you want to get a little fancier, you can upgrade to Alexa-compatible smart Christmas lights that can be programmed with specific effects.

Related: Alexa, Shhh! The Baby’s Sleeping

little girls drawing Christmas pictures
iStock

“Alexa, ask Christmas Kindness for an idea.”

Want an easy way to help your kids understand the importance of giving and helping others? Alexa can help with the Christmas Kindness skill. When you enable the skill Alexa will prompt you with suggestions on random acts of kindness.

With so many ways to engage in holiday festivities with Alexa, this home assistant may as well be your very own "keep the kiddos busy" advent calendar for the whole month of December!

“Alexa, play Santa Claus.”

Want a direct line to the big man? Alexa has the hook-up. Kids can say "Alexa, ask Santa Claus if I'm naughty or nice" to find out which list they’ve made after being quizzed on a series of questions on their behavior.

“Alexa, start The Night Before Christmas.”

Get the kids ready for bed and those sugar plum visions with the classic tale of how Santa and his reindeer arrive. Alexa also has some other holiday stories up her sleeve.

“Alexa, play Christmas sounds.”

If you need a break from "Rudolph" and "Jingle Bells" but still want to fill your home with the sounds of the season, you can enable the Christmas sounds skill and Alexa will spread the holiday cheer with sounds like bells ringing and horse hooves clomping.

“Alexa, where's Santa?”

Speaking of Christmas Eve, if you want to get those kids off to bed so you can enjoy some quiet time and a glass of wine, convince them that Santa is on his way by enabling the NORAD Tracks Santa skill.

"Alexa, is Santa real?”

Don't worry, Alexa won't spoil all the Christmas magic. If anything, the home assistant has you covered by answering all those difficult questions you might not be ready to answer this year. Some other challenging Christmas questions Alexa can answer include “How old is Santa Claus?” and “What is the true meaning of Christmas?”

“Alexa, tell me some Christmas jokes.”

Everyone loves a good old cheesy joke, especially about Christmas. There are lots of great Christmas jokes and riddles out there and Alexa knows plenty of them. See how much Alexa can make you laugh!

Related: Who Ya’ Gonna Call? Santa Claus! Here’s How!

Additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

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15 Cool Facts about Reindeer You May Not Know

by Amber Guetebier

Looking for fun Christmas trivia for kids? These reindeer facts are just what you need

You know Dasher and Dancer and Comet and Vixen, but do you know that reindeer grow beards in the wintertime? We’ve rounded up some of the most fascinating, fun reindeer facts, just in time for Christmas. Looking for more trivia for kids? Check out our list here!

reindeer
Hans-Jurgen Mager via Unsplash

1. Rangifer tarandus is the scientific name for the animal we most commonly call reindeer. They are in the same family as deer, and there are more than a dozen subspecies. 

2. In the wild, some reindeer travel more than 3000 miles in a single year.

3. In North America, reindeer are also known as caribou, although the current "taxonomic jury" is out on that all species of reindeer are caribou. Most people use the terms interchangeably.

4. Reindeer like it cold! They are native to Arctic and subarctic regions as well as tundra and boreal (read: snow, snow, snow!) to northern Europe, Siberia, and North America.

5. The indigenous people of Finland, the Saami, have more than 400 words for the food, tools, and other products taken from reindeer. Their word for reindeer, raingo, may be where the common name is derived.

6. Reindeer beards? In the winter time reindeer grow their facial hair long enough to cover their mouths, which protects their muzzles when grazing in the snow.

7. Male reindeer have louder calls than females. Males use a small pouch under the skin of their throats which they inflate to blast out a loud bellow.

 

reindeer pulling sleigh
Judith Prins via Unsplash

8. Reindeer grow new antlers every year.

9. For almost all kinds of reindeer, both male and female reindeer have antlers. Females shed their antlers when they give birth in the spring.

10. The Finnish Forest Reindeer, arguably the reindeer of Santa Claus fame, is the largest reindeer species. They are over 7 ½ feet long. 

11. Finnish Forest Reindeer’s hooves have a special scoop that helps them forage through the snow for lichen and moss.

12. In warmer months, reindeer feast on grasses, mushrooms, and plants. In the winter they feast mainly on moss and lichen. Reindeer have a strong sense of smell, which helps them sniff out food underneath layers of snow.

13. In many cultures, Reindeer are used to pull sleds and sleighs. There's evidence of this dating back 7,000 years ago in Siberia!

14. Reindeer are covered in hair from their nose to the bottom of their hooves, which gives them a good grip in icy, snowy, and muddy terrain.

15. Reindeer travel in packs of 10 to several hundred. They generally follow food sources up to 1,000 miles, especially when it's tougher to find in winter.

Additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

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