Christmas Eve box: ideas for decoration and fillers

Stocking fillers are easy, but what about Christmas Eve box fillers? This is our guide to what goes in a Christmas eve box and how to decorate it.

The Christmas Eve box has become a bit of a modern day tradition for many families around the world.

It’s essentially a gift box filled with small, festive items intended to be opened and enjoyed on Christmas Eve. While the concept is similar to a Christmas stocking, the purpose of Christmas Eve box fillers are to get everyone into the Christmas spirit the night before.

The concept of a Christmas Eve box is relatively modern and has roots in the German and Nordic tradition of Julklapp, where people exchange small gifts on Christmas Eve. It also draws from the idea of opening one gift before Christmas morning, which some families have long practiced.

Over time, the Christmas Eve box has grown into a full box of treats, which is popular in many countries today.

The key is to make sure your Christmas Eve box fillers create a cosy, merry feeling ahead of the big day. The best way to build excitement and anticipation is by creating special memories on the night before Christmas.

Here are some of the best Christmas Eve box fillers and ideas!

What goes in a Christmas Eve box?

Cosy items

• Christmas pyjamas: A classic among Christmas Eve box fillers, festive pyjamas create instant cosiness and really set the tone.
• Socks or slippers: For an extra touch of warmth and comfort, fussy socks and boot slippers pair well with festive pyjamas.
• Blanket: A small, snuggly blanket is the cherry on to and may help settle any excited kids before bed.

Hot chocolate, marshmallows and candy canes are a must!

Festive treats:

• Hot chocolate, marshmallows, cream and festive sprinkles: Perfect for sipping on Christmas Eve and best enjoyed this time of year.
• Cookies or gingerbread: Of all the Christmas Eve box fillers, this is perhaps more a gift to leave out for Santa.
• Reindeer food: Can’t forget Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer and co. This is one of those great Christmas Eve box ideas that really raises some Christmas spirit.
• Candy canes and chocolate coins: Festive treats that can be enjoyed with your hot chocolate.

Entertainment:

• Christmas movie or book: A DVD, a link to a streaming movie, or a Christmas storybook for the little ones.
• Games or puzzles: A holiday-themed board game or puzzle can make for a fun Christmas Eve family night.

Why not include an annual Christmas tree bauble? If you’re crafty, you could even make one on the night.

Decorative touches:

• Ornament: A small, personalised tree ornament is the perfect annual Christmas Eve box filler. You can even craft one scratch, such as this Crocheted Red-Nosed Reindeer Christmas bauble.
• Personalized note or letter: For children, a letter “from Santa” can add magic. This may be one to also add to the Christmas Eve box adult ideas as a heartfelt note from a loved one is also a nice touch.

Extra gifts

• Mug: A Christmas-themed mug for any hot drinks.
• Mini toiletries: Festive-scented hand cream, lip balm, or bath bomb for pampering.

There are lots of crafty ways to decorate your Christmas eve box.

How to Decorate a Christmas Eve Box?

Get creative with decorating a Christmas Eve box to match your festive style!

Wooden box

Paint or stencil Christmas motifs (snowflakes, reindeer, or holly). Attach a small chalkboard on the front for a custom message.

Gift box or basket

Wrap it in Christmas wrapping paper, which you could even print yourself, or use a themed gift box with ribbon and bows.

Personalise

Use stickers or calligraphy to add names on the box.

Natural elements

Attach small pine branches, holly, cinnamon sticks, or pine cones to the top for a rustic look.

LED lights

Place battery-operated fairy lights around or inside the box for a magical glow.

• The People’s Friend Team Christmas Traditions