Childhood Christmas Holiday traditions like learning to build a gingerbread house, sitting around the tree decorated with popcorn strands, Christmas candy shaped like ribbons, and the wonderful smells of cinnamon and hot apple cider are memories we never forget. The magical dreams we have during the holidays were built upon childhood Christmas holiday traditions, developed by generations of family members. If you are looking to develop your own Christmas traditions, and have been longing for the memories of your childhood memories of an old-fashioned Christmas, read on for these unique Christmas holiday ideas.

Make Your Own Christmas Stockings

Start by either sewing a basic, plain red stocking or even purchasing an unadorned stocking at your local discount retailer. Find a free Christmas holiday stocking sewing pattern here or simply make your own. A Christmas holiday stocking is a fairly basic shape and really only requires two cut pieces of fabric.

Assemble your decorating supplies, glue sticks, needles and thread, felt pieces, bells, buttons, fabric scraps and other pieces that can be used to decorate a Christmas holiday stocking. Then, gather the family and start decorating! Everyone can decorate and personalize their own stocking, making this an activity that encourages family together-time and the old-fashioned spirit of Christmas.

Take Holiday Sleigh Rides

A Christmas sleigh ride is a great old-fashioned Christmas activity that will get the family outdoors, enjoying the crisp winter air and celebrating the holidays together. To find holiday sleigh rides in your area, try Googling “Christmas holiday sleigh rides” and your city, or check your local newspaper’s Christmas event listings.

Make Your Own Christmas Candy

Making your own Christmas candy is a great way to spend a winter day with your family. You’ll need a candy thermometer, a thick pot and a lot of patience, but it’s worth it. And remember, when making your own Christmas candy, you’re dealing with exceptionally high temperatures, so always be careful and avoid doing this activity with younger children in the kitchen.

For younger kids, bake some plain Christmas holiday shortbread cookies ahead of time, and let your kids go wild with sprinkles, dyes and cookie paints. You’ll get a batch of old-fashioned Christmas holiday cookies and your kids will get to spend the day doing something fun and creative.

Find some free and fun Christmas candy recipes here.