With the holiday season underway, many of us are already organizing our tightly packed schedules to fit in as much fun as possible. Between holiday dinners, parties with family and friends, staying snuggled inside with hot cocoa, cozy sweaters and the general joy that many feel this time of year, there’s a lot to pack into a few weeks. Before the new year approaches and we’re all busy setting our goals for the next 365 days, it’s important to make the most of every moment with our loved ones. For so many, that holiday dinner is one of the most highly-anticipated meals of the year. But, as many of us know, waiting for that big holiday dinner with your family and friends requires a ton of patience. How will you fill your time? Here are some suggestions to hold you over:
House hop
Christmas isn’t just a time for your immediate family. It’s more fun to share the joy with everyone you love and care about, and hopping from one relative’s house to another can spice up your day and maximize your chances for tasty dishes at every stop. If you’ve never tried house hopping on the holidays, switch that up this year.
Run to get a seasonal drink
Whether it’s on the way to your next holiday stop or just a quick trip with your other impatient cousins, heading for one last holiday drink can fill up a good chunk of time and get you in the spirit. McDonald’s irresistible McCafé Peppermint Mocha and Hot Chocolate are back for a limited time at participating restaurants and bound to keep you warm and in the holiday spirit. So, get to sipping before these holiday favorites are gone for the season!
Host a family game tournament
Gather around the card table, whip out a deck of cards or your favorite board game and pass the time with spirited competition. Some of the best memories are formed while teaming up with and against your loved ones for the glory of being the card table champion. A little competitive fun never hurt anybody.
Photo: Shutterstock
Put your new toys to use
Exploring your new gifts is one of the most exciting parts of the holidays. Even as you get older and aren’t as excited about toys and games, helping your younger relatives unbox their treasures and figure out how everything works will be a memory you’ll have when they get older and too cool to hang out with you. Cherish these moments.
Take a nap
If we’re being real, many of us were up all last night doing last-minute gift wrapping and grocery shopping. There’s never a better time for a nap than in-between the morning rush and the evening grub. Take that nap and get ready to sing carols, watch holiday movies and dig into your favorite dishes all night.
How do you fill your time before one of our favorite meals of the year? Share your tips with us!
This post is brought to you in collaboration with McDonald's.
