5 Festive Activities to Indulge in This Season
Irrespective of your budget or beliefs, these joyful activities are worth a try and can
make your Christmas season sparkle, writes Vanessa Obioha
It is that time of year when love, joy, and togetherness seem to fill the air. Even if the world around us feels a bit heavier, the holiday spirit always finds a way to lift it. Sure, we’ve all been feeling the pinch from economic ups and downs, but the essence of Christmas — giving, celebrating, and creating memories — is something no downturn can take away. And with Christmas Day just around the corner, here are five must-try festive activities guaranteed to warm your heart and spread cheer.
Sing Your Heart Out with Christmas Carols
Few things feel as magical as joining voices to sing the timeless carols of Christmas.“It is one of my favourite pastimes of the season,” said Ifeoma Uzor, an entrepreneur in Lagos. “Going to church and joining everyone to sing the carols is heavenly.”
Can’t make it to a live carol service? No worries! Create your own mini-concert at home by curating a playlist of your favourite carols. Platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music are booming with beautiful renditions of classics like ‘Silent Night’ and ‘Joy to the World.’ For something special, try the Pentatonix version and let the melodies fill your home with holiday joy.
The Magic of Christmas Eve Celebrations
Ah, Christmas Eve! The night when excitement is thick in the air. Families come together to wrap up last-minute gifts, finish preparing holiday feasts, or attend a late-night service that captures the essence of the season.
It’s a tradition that adds an extra layer of anticipation. Whether you’re indulging in some final decorating or watching the kids light up with joy at a surprise fireworks display, Christmas Eve is all about building that joyful suspense. And hey, if you’re up for it, you can even sneak in a last-minute wish — who knows, Santa might be listening!
Reconnect with Family and Friends
Christmas is the perfect excuse to drop everything and spend time with those who matter most.
As a child, Christmas was the ideal time for my parents to take us to visit our cousins, where we could play freely and indulge in as much rice, chicken, and ice cream as we wanted—without the usual worry of being disciplined. Meanwhile, our parents would be busy catching up on the latest gossip.
So, this festive season, why not step away from social media for a bit and reconnect in person. Whether it’s an impromptu visit to an old friend or a full-on family gathering, nothing beats sharing laughter, stories, and meals with the people you love.
Take a Holiday Trip:
If you’ve been dreaming of a getaway, Christmas is the time to make it happen. Despite rising costs and travel challenges, a change of scenery can do wonders for your holiday spirit.
“When it’s possible, I travel to the village to see some of my relatives and cousins,” said Olivia Emeli, a Voice of Customer analyst based in Lagos. “A kinda mini reunion.”
Even a short trip to a nearby destination can be enough to refresh and recharge, giving you a break from your usual routine while soaking up the holiday vibes. Whether it’s a trip to the village or a cozy staycation, make the most of your time away!
Spread Joy by Giving Back
If there’s one tradition that truly embodies the spirit of Christmas, it’s giving.
“I try to reach out in my own little way to some people who are really struggling financially to show love and put a smile on their faces,” added Emeli. This season, why not make time to give back? Whether through donations or simply offering a helping hand to someone in need, the act of giving can make your Christmas even more meaningful.
There’s nothing quite like the joy of knowing you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. So spread the love and cheer!
