Let kids choose.
1 of 7Ask your littlest ones to name their favorite part of the holidays. Odds are you'll be surprised what they say. If driving around town looking at lights is their favorite, focus on that. Hop on one of those horse-drawn carriage light tours, head to a big local display or fill thermoses with cocoa and drive around for an hour one night. They'll remember you made a big deal out of their favorite part.
Order in.
2 of 7Wait. Are we suggesting that you don't make every single traditional holiday dish from scratch?! Yes. Yes, we are. Don't stress on everything being fresh out of your oven at all times. Or forget the traditional holiday food altogether and serve an Italian-American feast, a family-style Chinese buffet or something else unexpected. Or brunch! Everyone loves brunch.
Board it up.
3 of 7One great way to entertain a crowd is with a mega board. Be it a traditional charcuterie or cheese or a more out-of-the-box variety like a "taco party" board. You'll love the freedom and creativity that a giant platter provides. Simply lay out all your beautiful accouterments and watch your guests enjoy snacking, meal-building and oohing and ahh-ing.
Find your happy place.
4 of 7While it may not involve providing entertainment for others, don't forget about self-care in the midst of all the shopping, planning, cleaning, cooking, decorating and running around. Self-care doesn't have to be facials and massages either (though, it certainly can be). Take time to enjoy your favorite podcast, sit and read with a cup of tea (or something stronger), grab dinner with your spouse or just run an errand alone for once–and don't feel guilty about it.
Get outta town.
5 of 7Who says you need to host your annual holiday get togethers at your place? Hop on a cheap flight, drive out to the country or rent a house in a neighboring city and enjoy the newfound scenery this holiday season.
Take it outside.
6 of 7Sometimes fresh air is all you and your family need to make a little holiday magic happen. How about a little picnic under the stars, complete with holiday movie projections and a fire pit begging for s'mores? Dress code is casual.
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