The holiday season brings warmth and nostalgia, but who says you can’t shake things up? Updating old holiday traditions with a modern or eco-friendly twist—or adding something entirely new—can make this time of year even more magical. Here are fresh ideas to keep your holiday traditions feeling merry and bright.

1. Upgrade Gift-Giving With an Experience-First Approach

Instead of hunting for the perfect physical gift, consider giving an experience: a cooking class, concert tickets, or a weekend getaway. Experiences create lasting memories, unlike another sweater that might sit in the back of the closet. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality time with loved ones.

Make this new tradition special with a fun “reveal” moment. Instead of wrapping a traditional gift, leave hints about the experience. A small box with a puzzle piece or a riddle, or even a scavenger hunt around the house, can make discovering the gift half the fun.

2. Host a Holiday Dinner Potluck-Style

Hosting a holiday dinner can be overwhelming. This year, invite guests to contribute with a potluck-style dinner, sharing the workload and allowing more time with friends and family. You’ll also get to sample everyone’s family recipes—there’s always one surprise dish that steals the show.

Add a twist by assigning a theme to the potluck. Whether “Holiday Classics With a Twist” or “Around the World in 8 Dishes,” a cohesive theme adds creativity and excitement to the gathering.

3. Turn Secret Santa Into a Personalized Treasure Hunt

Secret Santa is a holiday staple, but it can get predictable. This year, transform it into a treasure hunt. Instead of just handing over gifts, hide them around the house (or even the neighborhood) and provide clues for the recipient to follow.

Tailor the hunt to the recipient’s interests. If they’re a movie buff, make clues based on their favorite films. If they love books, write clues in rhyme, like a mystery novel. A personalized hunt makes the gift even more thoughtful and memorable.

4. Swap the Holiday Movie Marathon for a DIY Film Fest

Holiday movie marathons are a beloved tradition, but instead of rewatching the same classics, create a DIY holiday film fest. Set up a cozy space with blankets and fairy lights, and have each family member pick a movie that holds special meaning.

For added charm, make custom “tickets” for each film, set up a snack bar with themed treats (peppermint popcorn, anyone?), and don’t forget the hot cocoa. This way, everyone can share their favorites, and you might discover a new classic to add to your lineup.

5. Make Holiday Baking a Friendly Competition

Holiday baking is fun but can get chaotic with multiple recipes in one kitchen. Why not turn it into a friendly family competition? Divide into teams, pick recipes, and see who can make the best gingerbread house or most creative cookies.

Appoint a few family members to taste-test and vote on the winners. The prize? Bragging rights and maybe an extra slice of pie. Turning baking into a competition makes it a fun, bonding activity.

6. Reinvent Holiday Cards With Video Greetings

Holiday cards are a classic, but this year, consider a modern, eco-friendly alternative: video greetings. Record a personalized holiday message or film a festive skit with your family.

Your video doesn’t need to be Hollywood-level; a heartfelt message wishing loved ones happy holidays (bonus points for including pets in cute costumes) is more than enough. The best part? You can send it instantly—no postage is required.