10 things to do to make your christmas lodging fun

Christmas in Nigeria is a vibrant and joyous celebration filled with colorful traditions, delicious foods, and plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories. As the festive season approaches, many families and friends seek out special lodging options to make their holiday celebrations even more enjoyable.

The first step to a fun Christmas lodging experience is selecting a unique place to stay. Consider themed hotels or lodges thetravelhunters that offer a festive atmosphere. From treehouse retreats to beachfront resorts, finding a distinctive location can add excitement to your holiday. Not only will this enhance the ambiance, but it will also create a memorable backdrop for your Christmas celebrations. See our our list of affordable hotels to stay in Abuja and Lagos Whether you’re planning a getaway to a unique hotel or hosting family at a cozy rental, here are ten creative ideas to ensure your Christmas lodging is fun and memorable.

1. Festive Decor

Transform your lodging into a Christmas wonderland by bringing in a Christmas tree adorned with ornaments. Incorporate traditional Nigerian decorations, such as handmade crafts or colorful fabrics, to blend cultural elements with holiday cheer. Encourage family members to contribute their favorite decorations to make it a collaborative effort.

Arts and Crafts:

Get crafty by making DIY Christmas decorations or personalized gifts. Set up an arts and crafts station with supplies like colored paper, markers, glitter, and beads. This is a great way to encourage creativity and produce unique items that reflect each family member’s personality.

2. Organize a family feast

Organize a potluck dinner where each family member brings a traditional dish. This can include favorites like jollof rice, pounded yam, or egusi soup. It not only allows everyone to showcase their cooking skills but also creates a diverse feast that reflects the family's culinary heritage.

You can also spend an afternoon baking popular Nigerian treats like chin chin, puff-puff, or coconut candy. This is a fun, hands-on activity that everyone can enjoy. Set up a baking station and allow kids to help with measuring, mixing, and decorating. The aroma of freshly baked goods will add to the festive spirit.

Lastly, treat your family to festive beverages like palm wine, zobo (hibiscus tea), or Chapman (a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail). Create a mini bar where family members can mix their own drinks, allowing for creativity and fun while toasting to the holiday season.

3. Play Games

Dedicate a night to playing board games or traditional Nigerian games like Ludu and Ayo. This can foster healthy competition and laughter among family members. You can even create small prizes for the winners to make it more exciting.

4. Watch movies

Select a mix of classic Christmas movies and popular Nigerian films that capture the holiday spirit. Create a cozy movie-watching environment with blankets and snacks, and enjoy quality family time. Consider setting up a voting system for which movies to watch to keep everyone engaged.

5. Picnic

Plan a picnic in a nearby park or on the lodging grounds. Pack a basket filled with traditional snacks, fruits, and drinks. Bring along blankets and outdoor games like frisbee or soccer to make it a fun-filled day. A picnic offers a relaxing break from the holiday hustle and bustle.

6. Nature Walks

Explore local parks or nature reserves for a refreshing outdoor experience. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps have a small nature scavenger hunt for the kids. Connecting with nature is a great way to unwind and bond as a family. You might be surprised by how smoothly your difficult conversations and frictions would be easily handled.

7. Attend Local Festivals

Research local Christmas festivals or events happening in your area. Participating in these celebrations allows your family to experience the rich cultural traditions of the season, from music and dance performances to food fairs and parades.

Look for local performances featuring traditional Nigerian Christmas songs or live bands. Attend concerts or open-air shows and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Music can enhance the holiday spirit and provide a great way to socialize and have fun.

8. Charity Work

Organize a family volunteer day at a local charity or community center. This could involve serving meals, donating clothing, or helping with events. Engaging in charity work teaches the values of generosity and compassion while spreading holiday cheer to those in need.

9. Light up a bonfire

If possible, organize a bonfire night in your backyard or a safe outdoor space. Gather around the fire and share stories or sing Christmas carols while you gaze at the night stars. The warmth of the fire creates a cozy atmosphere for family bonding. This simple yet profound activity encourages reflection and connection.

10. Go on city tour

This is my favourite. Whether you are lodging in your city or in another city, its always a great avenue to visit your favourite or popular hangout spots like bars, restaurants, parks, malls, etc Apart from the fun of visiting these places, you and your family also get to know more about the city and get more exposure.

Conclusion

Making your Christmas lodging fun and memorable in Nigeria is all about creativity and connection. By choosing unique accommodations, planning festive activities, and indulging in local traditions, you can create a holiday experience that will be cherished by all. Embrace the Christmas spirit, and let these ideas inspire you to make the most of your holiday season.