When the air feels magical and Christmas music is playing everywhere you go, there’s no question that it’s the most wonderful time of the year! While Christmas is the time for making your very own magical memories, we know that things can get very busy! To ensure you don’t miss out on the important stuff, here is a list of fun and festive activities that you’ll want to do year after year!

1. Pile into the Car and See the Christmas Lights

Oh the joys of the shimmery, sparkly, glittery lights! Bundle up, get some hot chocolate, blast the Christmas music, and start the car. Going street by street ooh-ing and ahh-ing over everyone’s Christmas decorations is a must to get into the holiday spirit. Some displays have music, and others even invite onlookers to walk through their displays and take pictures. Speaking of which – a Christmas just isn’t a Christmas without a tour through North Rustico’s incredible light show! So as the sun sets, you, your friends and your family now have a go-to activity that will become your newest tradition.

North Rustico Christmas Lights, Photo by Rachel Peters

2. Explore Christmas Markets and Craft Fairs

Talk about bursting with Christmas spirit! Local artisans from all across PEI and Atlantic Canada sell their handmade goodies at Christmas markets and craft fairs. From home decor to homemade cookies and everything in between, that perfect gift is waiting for you. Shopping isn’t the best part about these fairs though, it’s the magic and nostalgia in the air as you make those special memories with your family and friends. Between the different holiday pop-ups almost every weekend, Farmer’s Markets, and the many Christmas Craft Fairs, there’s no way you will leave empty handed or without a smile!

Photo by Discover Charlottetown

3. Find Your Perfectly Imperfect Christmas Tree

Whether you need a tree that’s 12 feet tall and perfect in every way, or the “it’s so ugly it’s cute” Charlie Brown tree, there’s no greater feeling than walking row by row to find the best tree for your home! For many, gathering with your family to critique each tree based on how it will suit your space has become a tradition that marks the beginning of Christmas. There’s something so fun and refreshing about getting out in the fresh air and walking around your favourite Christmas tree farm… it just brings back the kid in you!

Photo by Cait Clark

4. Experience a Christmas Show

What better way to get in the Christmas spirit than celebrating in song? All across PEI there are live performances that will warm your heart and fill you with Christmas spirit. Check out one of Holiday Shows as part of the Live @ the Centre programming, or at the Harbourfront Theatre in Summerside. Take in all the Christmas love and laughs at one of the many shows across the Island this year.

Lennie Gallant – Live @ The Centre

5. Enjoy a Sleigh Ride

Giddy up, let’s go! While it may not be your chosen method of travel, there is something special about cozying up in a horse-drawn sleigh with your favourite people and sipping on apple cider. Whether winding through the woods in the country, or travelling down the busy streets of Historic Charlottetown, you’ll be sure to enjoy the breathtaking views of a snow covered ground, while making some cherished memories along the way.

Photo by Discover Charlottetown

6. Stay in for a Christmas Movie Marathon

The age old Christmas debate: what is the BEST Christmas movie? Rather than going back and forth, why not have a full-on movie marathon? Pick out all your favourite flicks – funny, sappy, heartwarming, or even cheesy – and get cozy on the couch for a great night. And what makes every movie marathon better? That’s right… snacks! Load up on popcorn, chocolate covered COWS chips and creamy COWS hot chocolate, and settle in for a cozy, Christmas-filled night in.

COWS chocolate covered chips, Photo by ANNE of Green Gables Chocolates

7. Indulge in Christmas Baking

Cookies. Truffles. Meat pies. Fudge… The list goes on! If there was ever a time of year to spend time baking and cooking in the kitchen, this is it! One of the most universally prized gifts to receive is of the edible variety, so sharing your favourite savoury or sweet treats with loved ones is a sure fire way to make their day. For Island inspired recipes check out these recipes from Chef Michael Smith or these 3 Irresistible COW Chip Recipes.