50+ Things to do for baby’s first Christmas

Baby’s First Christmas: Traditions, Activities & Photo Ideas

*This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own, just like always*

Your baby’s first Christmas is such a special milestone. It can be magical, but let’s be honest—sometimes it’s just as much about diaper changes, naps, and travel schedules as it is about twinkling lights.

When our first was almost one, I remember dressing him in cozy Christmas pajamas before heading downstairs to my parents’ tree. He was far more fascinated with the crinkly wrapping paper than the actual toys inside, and I loved every second of it.

If you’re wondering how to celebrate or what to do for baby’s first Christmas, this guide is packed with ideas—from adorable photo inspiration to meaningful traditions you can start as a family.

How to Celebrate Baby’s First Christmas

There are countless ways to celebrate, but the key is not to overwhelm yourself. Pick one or two new traditions, a few simple activities, and focus on making memories.

Baby’s First Christmas Photo Ideas

Want to capture the magic of the season? Try these cute photo setups:

– Baby in front of the Christmas tree
– Baby tangled in Christmas lights (with supervision!)
– Baby asleep on a Christmas book
– Baby with cookies and milk for Santa (swap the cup for a bottle!)
– Baby sitting inside a wrapped gift box
– Baby on Santa’s lap
– Baby in a Santa hat or stocking
– Baby surrounded by ornaments and garland
– Baby in a toy car with a mini Christmas tree tied on top
– Baby unwrapping presents

Tip: Use natural light near a window for soft, magical photos.

Things to Do at Home for Baby’s First Christmas

Looking for cozy at-home activities? These are fun for the whole family:

– Create a holiday playlist (or stream a baby Christmas station)
– Give your baby a meaningful keepsake gift (like a snow globe, personalized book, or Christmas train)
– Make or buy a personalized stocking
– Read a Christmas Eve bedtime story
– Decorate the nursery with lights
– Make a handprint or footprint ornament craft
– Bake cookies for Santa (your baby can “help” with mixing or tasting dough-free batter)
– Dress the family in ugly sweaters (baby will look adorable in anything!)
– Start a holiday book collection (buy one special book each year)
– Host a white elephant exchange with mom friends
– Create a scrapbook of baby’s first Christmas
– Buy Christmas-themed bibs or outfits
– Reenact the nativity (you’ve got the perfect baby Jesus this year!)
– Make a felt Christmas tree for baby to decorate again and again

Baby’s First Christmas Traditions to Start

Traditions grow with your family and make each holiday meaningful. Here are a few to consider:

– Start an ornament collection (one new ornament per year)
– Open matching Christmas pajamas on Christmas Eve
– Make a family Christmas card and save one for your memory box
– Donate a gift to children in need
– Bake cookies together every year (even if baby just plays with sprinkles)
– Write a letter to your baby each Christmas and keep them in a special book
– Begin an advent tradition (a book countdown, family activity calendar, or acts of kindness)
– Decide how your family will celebrate Santa
– Start a nativity collection (add one new piece each year)

Baby’s First Christmas Outings & Events

Want to get out of the house? Try these festive adventures:

– Take a Christmas light tour (babies love lights!)
– Visit a Christmas tree farm
– See Santa for the first time
– Attend a holiday parade or tree lighting
– Go caroling with friends (everyone will love a visit from baby!)
– Visit a live nativity or holiday church service
– Watch ice skaters in the park

Foods for Baby’s First Christmas

If your baby is ready for solids, the holidays are a fun time to introduce festive foods. Depending on their age, you might try:

– Mashed potatoes
– Sweet potatoes
– Green beans
– Carrots
– Turkey (shredded or puréed)

Always check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods.

Baby’s First Christmas Gift Ideas

Babies don’t need much, but these meaningful gifts can grow with them:

– Personalized ornament
– Holiday board book
– Plush nativity set
– Special blanket or Christmas quilt
– Keepsake toy or Christmas train

See my favorite baby’s first Christmas gifts here.

FAQs About Baby’s First Christmas

Final Thoughts on Baby’s First Christmas

Your baby won’t remember their first Christmas, but you will. Focus on enjoying the season, capturing little moments, and building traditions that will last.

Whether it’s taking photos in front of the tree, baking cookies, or introducing a new ornament each year, these simple acts turn into meaningful memories.

Here’s to a cozy, magical baby’s first Christmas!