Christmas Eve Boxes: What to Know About the New Holiday Tradition

Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring— well, scratch that. As much as you wish the kiddos were nestled all snug in their beds while visions of sugar plums danced in their heads, they're probably not. It's more likely they're buzzing with excitement as they (not so patiently) await the big day! That's where Christmas Eve boxes come in handy. This new family Christmas tradition is growing in popularity each year, and for good reason. I mean, why not extend the festive fun beyond Christmas Day all while giving the little ones something to do as they anticipate Santa's arrival.

Basically, Christmas Eve boxes are pre-gifts to get the whole family in the holiday spirit a little early! The boxes are typically filled with small gifts (like stocking stuffers) and given to loved ones on the evening before Christmas Day. Some say the idea comes from the German tradition of opening presents on December 24, but now, many American families use the custom to spread even more Christmas cheer before the main event. Plus—if the kids get to open an extra gift on Christmas Eve, there's no need for them to stay awake rattling gift boxes as they try to guess what they'll get in the morning!

What types of Christmas Eve boxes are available?

The merriest part of this tradition is that Christmas Eve boxes can be filled with whatever and given to whoever depending on how you celebrate the holidays. You can gift the kids, your husband, your friends, or even a pet. That means you can use all types of boxes, too! Grab a festive basket, a personalized wooden crate or stick presents in an old stocking or a decorated cardboard box. Either way, it'll be so meaningful. You can even DIY your own box—we'll have more tips on that below. Some options come ready-to-gift with small trinkets already included in the box, but usually, you just find a container and fill it yourself.

ETSY

How can you make a Christmas Eve box?

If you consider yourself a DIY master fit for Santa's workshop, you might enjoy making your own Christmas Eve box. Just add it to the list of Christmas crafts you're sure to work on this holiday season. Once you've chosen a container fit for goodies galore, you'll just decorate it to your heart's desire! Use Christmas wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, or any other art supplies for a festive finish. And here's a holiday hint for all you Elf on the Shelf participants: you can even make your Christmas Eve box for the kids look like it came from their elf as a goodbye gift until he makes his way back to your mantel next year.

Where do you buy Christmas Eve boxes?

You can also add a Christmas Eve box to your holiday shopping list. To make this activity a staple celebration year after year, you'll want to grab a box that can stand the test of time. There are so many cute wooden options on sites like Etsy. Some are decorated to look like they came straight from the North Pole while others are simply engraved with a family name and ready to become a special heirloom. There's even one shaped as a sleigh! You can also find sturdy boxes, baskets, or drawstring bags to fill with presents at major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. We've rounded up some of our top choices of 2022 for you to browse below.

Shop Christmas Eve Boxes

Personalized Christmas Eve Box

Now 15% Off

$45 AT ETSY

Personalized Gift Crate

$55 AT ETSY

Handmade Christmas Eve Box

$27 AT ETSY

Personalized Christmas Eve Box

$58 AT ETSY

Personalized Wooden Handmade Santa's Sleigh

$38 AT ETSY

Christmas Basket

$21 AT AMAZON

Christmas Eve Gift Box

Now 15% Off

$20 AT ETSY

Christmas Eve Gift Box with Lid

$15 AT AMAZON

Snowman Christmas Basket

$29 AT AMAZON

What do you put inside a Christmas Eve box?

While the contents of your Christmas Eve box is totally up to your personal preference, you should probably save the big ticket items for after Old St. Nick has paid your home a visit. Our favorite small gifts: items the kiddos or your loved ones can use on Christmas Eve or a Christmas activity the whole family can do together. A few popular picks are matching Christmas pajamas, fuzzy socks, a Christmas movie dvd, a small toy, an ornament, a book, hot chocolate mix, candy, a handwritten letter, a Christmas blanket, or even some reindeer food! You can shop some of these picks below.