Yhem Speaks

Are you staying in for Christmas Holiday?

If you are thinking of spending the Christmas holiday at home this year because things looks a little different or maybe because the streets will be crowded and travel feels stressful or you simply want to enjoy the season at home. That’s okay!

Each year, Christmas comes with different vibes. Sometimes lively, sometimes calm, sometimes unexpected. But no matter how it feels, the best memories can still be made right at home, in moments that bring joy and fulfillment.

Here are 10 Christmas activities you can do at home that bring happiness, connection, and a little festive magic without leaving your space. They are very simple and not complicated to achieve.

1. Make your own Christmas decorations

I love the joy that comes from creating something with your hands. You don’t need to buy fancy craft supplies. Growing up, we usually decorate with whatever we already had at home and honestly, it still works perfectly today. You don’t need to buy new decor every December. I love looking around my space and finding things I can reuse. Things like ribbons from old hampers, leftover fabrics (ankara scraps work so well), empty jars, last year’s ornaments, even cardboard from packaging. Being creative is a life skill. So turning simple household items into something festive is very useful. It saves money, reduces waste, and still makes your home look beautifully ready for Christmas.

2. Cook or bake something that smells like Christmas

Whether you’re cooking or baking, there’s something comforting about preparing food during Christmas. It fills the house with warmth and familiar scents. In Nigeria, Christmas cooking is almost a tradition on its own. The kind that starts with Jollof rice simmering on the gas cooker, fried rice with colorful vegetables, fresh salad on the side, and well-spiced turkey while roasting it with that aroma everyone knows. Even if you’re far from home, making one of these meals can instantly bring back that December feeling. But if you prefer something sweet, baking cookies or a simple cake can make your whole home feel festive. Whichever you choose, the moment itself makes Christmas feel closer.

3. Write Christmas letters or cards

One thing I genuinely enjoy during the Christmas season is writing cards and giving them to people I care about with gifts. There’s something special about putting your thoughts into words. Genuine simple lines that come from the heart. It could be a thank-you note, a message of encouragement, or just reminding someone that you’re thinking of them. In a season where everyone is busy, a handwritten card feels special. It’s a small gesture, but it carries warmth, and people remember it long after the holidays are over.

4. Create a Christmas movie night

Most of us save movies on our Netflix or Amazon Prime list and forget they’re even there. Christmas is the perfect time to go back, scroll through your saved titles, and finally pick something you actually feel like watching. Look for somewhere comfortable in the house, lay out your blanket, get your drinks with snacks ready, and don’t forget to put your phone on silent so nothing interrupts the vibe. A simple movie night can turn into a relaxing escape when you let yourself enjoy it fully.

5. Put on Christmas music while cleaning

One thing about December is that it always makes me want to tidy up my space. I usually put on my Christmas playlist (a mix of Nigerian gospel, classic holiday songs, and whatever lifts my mood) and clean one corner at a time. Before I know it, I’m done cleaning. It’s not about doing a full deep clean; it’s about creating breathing space before the year ends. I’ve noticed that this habit helps with a sense of calm, clarity and lighter mood.

6. Make a hot chocolate or tea

Having a warm drink during the holidays is refreshing. The cold weather is enough to remind one of hot drinks. Drinks like hot chocolate, hot tea, warm milk with cinnamon while having biscuits or any other snack you prefer is perfect. Even if someone visits, offering a warm drink during Christmas feels welcoming.

7. Do a simple Christmas gratitude reflection

Before the year ends, I like to sit down sometimes with my journal or sometimes just with my thoughts and reflect. What did this year teach me? What stretched me? What surprised me? What am I grateful for? As someone who is naturally reflective and a Christian, this is a norm for me every year. Putting my thoughts down helps me see how much I’ve grown, even in seasons I didn’t expect. I always realize there are so many things to be grateful to God for.

8. Have a family/friends game night

Growing up, Christmas was always loud and full of activity, but as adults, many of us now celebrate in smaller circles. So instead of waiting for a full house, I’ve learned that even a simple game night with two or three people can be fun. Board games, cards, charades, question and answer games bring laughter and connection. It’s not about winning rather it’s about enjoying the company of people you call friends and family.

9. Take Christmas photos and videos at home

I love capturing moments even if it’s the simplest ones. You don’t need a professional setup. Your Christmas tree, a clean wall, fairy lights, or even your kitchen can be the backdrop. Take fun pictures and videos, aesthetic pictures, or messy pictures that aren’t perfect. I love creating memories. These photos and videos become treasures later. One day you’ll look back and smile at how life looked in that season.

10. Call or video-chat family and friends

One thing I’ve learned is that Christmas doesn’t feel complete until I’ve spoken to the people who matter to me. Whether you live in the same axis or abroad, that quick call to your siblings, cousins, parents, or close friends just hits differently during the holidays. Most times we don’t even talk about anything serious. Just checking in, laughing, catching up, and sending prayers for the new year.

This habit strengthens relationships. Even a five-minute video chat can make you feel connected, loved, and grounded. Honestly hearing familiar voices and remembering you’re never alone are part of the beauty of Christmas.

I hope you’ll try at least one of these activities this season. Do what feels right for you and enjoy the moments you create. Wishing you a wonderful holiday ahead.

With Stories Always,

Yhem💞