Christmas Day often brings to mind cozy indoor moments by the fire, often a whole lot of eating and drinking and socializing too. But taking the time and energy to step out into nature can add a refreshing and magical touch to this holiday. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, a way to burn off the feast, or a chance to create new traditions, here are some ideas to enjoy the great outdoors on Christmas Day.
Go for a Festive Hike
Bundle up and head to your nearest trail for a holiday hike. depending on where you are in the world, the crisp air and winter scenery offer a serene contrast to the bustle of holiday preparations. It is not uncommon for us here in southern France to enjoy sun and 25 degrees heat for a few hours at the height of the day: a perfect time to head out into the hills for a short- to medium-sized circuit. To add a festive flair, you could wear Santa hats or reindeer antlers, and snap some holiday-themed photos along the way.
Have a Christmas Picnic Outdoors on Christmas Day
Pack a thermos of hot chocolate, some gingerbread cookies or mince pies, and a warm blanket, and find a scenic spot for a winter picnic. Parks, beaches, or even your backyard can provide a festive setting to enjoy the season's treats.
Go Birdwatching or Wildlife Spotting
Christmas morning is a quieter time in nature, making it perfect for spotting wildlife. Bring binoculars and see how many birds or animals you can identify. If you're new to birding, consider using a phone app such as Merlin to identify your birds visually and by song. Consider also leaving some birdseed or homemade suet treats as a gift for the wildlife.
Take a Stroll in a Botanical Garden
Many botanical gardens remain open on Christmas Day and offer stunning seasonal displays. Walking among winter blooms, evergreen trees, or twinkling holiday lights can be both relaxing and inspiring.
Build a Snow Creation
If you’re lucky enough to have snow, gather your loved ones and build snowmen, snow forts, or even snow sculptures. This is a fun, creative way to enjoy the outdoors and burn off some of that holiday energy. If you don't have snow where you are, the improvise: maybe use sand!
Go Ice Skating or Sledding
For a more active adventure, head to a local ice rink which most major towns and cities now have throughout the festive period. If you live close enough to the mountains, consider taking a sled or snow racquets up one of the snowy trails there for a huge calorific burn-off. These classic winter activities are perfect for adding excitement to your Christmas Day and create opportunities for laughter and fun with all the family too.
Take a Mindful Nature Walk
This is personally one of my favourite things to do. Christmas is often a busy time receiving family, making food, clearing up and starting again. And so for a nice quieter experience, consider taking a mindful walk through your favorite outdoor space. Listen to the sounds of nature, feel the cool air on your face, and take in the beauty of the season. It's a great way to reflect on the year and reset for the year ahead.
Start a New Tradition
Why not turn Christmas Day into a "clean-up hike" or an opportunity to give back to nature? Bring a trash bag and gloves, and pick up litter as you explore your favorite trails or parks. It's a meaningful way to combine holiday spirit with environmental stewardship. Being British and having grown up watching the Wombles of Wimbledon Common, I always feel quite light-hearted as I wander along, humming the theme tune to the children's program to myself and collecting what debris I find along the way. A clean-up hike is only one suggestion, however. You could also consider taking birdseed with you or collecting twigs for firewood.
Concluding Comments
Spending time in nature on Christmas Day is a wonderful way to reconnect with the season’s beauty and simplicity. Whether you’re surrounded by snowy landscapes or winter greenery, the outdoors offers a perfect backdrop for new traditions and cherished memories. So lace up your boots, grab your scarf, and step into the magic waiting just beyond your doorstep. Even if you live in the city, simply walking around the block will leave you feeling uplifted and rejuvenated, ready to take on the festivities once again. It's literally that easy!
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