Outdoor activities to do on Christmas Day
One of the many reasons to love Christmas in Australia is the blue skies and sunny days (well hopefully, we know how temperamental Mother Nature can be!). So when all the feasting and present-opening is done, there’s no reason to stay cooped up inside. Here’s just five activities to get the whole family out and about this Christmas.
Judge the neighbourhood decorations
This is an activity the grandkids are sure to enjoy. Walk around your block or head to an area renowned for their Chrissie decorations. Marvel at the lights and wonder at the elaborate decorations that our fellow Aussies do to make our kids (and everyone, really) smile!
Or take a family excursion to the big Myer and David Jones to peek at their magically animated window displays. They keep getting better, bigger and more intricate each year so be sure to have a look if you can. It will be another great tradition to share with the grandchildren.
Christmas-themed scavenger hunt
A scavenger hunt is a fun way to get people off the couches because who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition (especially the grandkids!). You’ll need to do a bit of prep work first though and create a scavenger list to distribute to everyone. Some ideas you could include: giant candy cane displays, gingerbread house decoration, snowman, Disney characters, a decorated mail box and a Christmas tree in the window. Pair off so the little ones can go too and get everyone to take a pictures not only for evidence but for the memories.
Backyard sport
It’s a summer tradition to play a bit of backyard cricket with the family but if cricket’s not your game then opt for your family’s favourite sport. It might be throwing the footy around or even a game of beach volleyball (if you’re at the beach). After all, the family who plays together, stays together.
Visit the animals
Many of the cities big zoos are open on Christmas Day but make sure you double check before heading out. Melbourne Zoo and Sydney’s Taronga Zoo will be open so if you’re looking for a fun activity check out what the animals are up to at Christmas. A definite bonus is the zoo is sure to be less crowded than usual.
Head to the beach
Others have Santa arriving on a sled and we have him swooping in on a surfboard. It’s only fitting that we head down to the beach to enjoy some sun, surf and sand. Some families opt for a beachside picnic that lasts till dusk while others may wander down after their Christmas feast – either way wherever you are in Australia, you’re no doubt close to some beautiful beaches.