At Virgin Experience Gifts, we put a premium on experiences. In fact, our mission is to create lifelong memories through amazing experiences. That’s why we’ve put together a list of family-friendly activities for the holiday season. We want you and your family to enjoy the best holiday season you’ve ever had, and hope this list will inspire you to get out and take advantage of all that your city has to offer.

The Nutcracker

The iconic ballet by Tchaikovsky is one of the most well-known storylines of all time, charming kids and adults alike for generations. But you’ve never truly experienced the magic of the Nutcracker if you haven’t seen a live performance. Most professional ballet companies begin performances shortly after Thanksgiving. Tickets sell out quickly, so get yours today!

Ice Skating

Nothing brings a family together like falling down together — again and again. Bring on the laughs and the fun, and take your family to an ice skating rink! Many cities have special outdoor rinks this time of year, perfect for enjoying the Christmas lights and soaking up the good cheer of the season.

Gingerbread Houses

Whether you make them with graham crackers or real gingerbread, it’s hard to beat the sweetly satisfying feat of building a gingerbread house. Of course decorating the home is the most fun. Frosting as glue? Yes please! Break out the gumdrops, peppermint candies, licorice, gummy bears, and anything else that catches your fancy. The kids will have a blast and you’ll capture some great photos, and memories, along the way.

Ways to Volunteer

The holidays are a wonderful time to reach out to those around you who are in need. Involving the whole family in a volunteer activity is the perfect way to demonstrate to your kids that Christmas isn’t just about receiving, but also about giving. Check your local homeless shelter or community food pantry for ways to get involved. Or let your kids shop for other kids through Toys for Tots or a similar non-profit.

Cookie Exchange

Cookies are one of the best parts about Christmas. There are so many kinds! But unless you have an army of elves at your disposal, it’s time-consuming to make dozens and dozens of different types of cookies. Hence the brilliance of the cookie exchange. Invite your neighbors to take part, and ask everyone to make several batches of just one kind of cookie. Then get together to divide and share, so that everyone has a wide assortment to enjoy.

Christmas Parade

Many cities host a parade during the holiday season that takes place downtown. You and your family will love going out together to experience the magic of the Christmas lights, music, floats, and fanfare. Bring your earmuffs and hot chocolate and enjoy the show!

Classic Christmas Movies

Cozy up on the couch with your loved ones and enjoy an evening of classic holiday films. From It’s a Wonderful Life to Christmas Vacation, Elf, and Miracle on 34th Street, there are wonderful movies suitable for the whole family and best enjoyed during the season.

Visit Santa

No Christmas would be complete without visiting the man of the hour, Santa himself! Whether your kids are beaming with pleasure or crying from fear, the pictures you get will be priceless. Check with your local malls and popular shopping areas to see when Santa will be taking requests from the little ones.

We hope you take time to enjoy the season and share some experiences together with your family. An easy way save time (not to mention avoiding the frenzy of crowded shopping malls) is with a Christmas gift from Virgin Experience Gifts. We have unique and memorable options that will delight your husband or wife. As a matter of fact, we’ve got fantastic gifts for everyone on your list — even dad.

If you’re not sure what they want, we’ve still got you covered. Get your loved ones a Virgin Experience Gifts Gift Certificate, and experience something magical this Christmas season! Your boyfriend doesn’t need more stuff; give him an experience he’ll remember for a lifetime. Our gift certificates never expire, so he can plan the perfect trip at the perfect time.

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!