How to Keep Your Family Entertained at Christmas - Scandi Style

How to Keep Your Family Entertained at Christmas - Scandi Style

Christmas is a magical time for family, and in Scandinavia, it's a season full of meaningful traditions, fun activities, and cosy gatherings. Even though Australia’s summer Christmas feels very different from a snow-covered Nordic winter, there’s plenty we can learn—and adapt—from Scandinavian customs to make the festive season unforgettable.

Here’s how you can bring a little Scandi magic to your family celebrations this Christmas.

1. Play Traditional Christmas Games

Scandinavians love games that bring the family together, and many of their festive traditions are perfect for an Aussie Christmas.

  • Kubb (Viking Chess):
    This classic Swedish lawn game is a hit for all ages. Played outdoors on the grass, it involves knocking over wooden blocks with batons to claim victory. It’s ideal for backyard fun during the Australian summer and will keep kids and adults entertained for hours.
  • Julklapp Game (Present Swapping):
    In Sweden, there’s a hilarious twist on Secret Santa. The “Julklapp” game involves wrapping funny or practical gifts in layers of newspaper or packaging, then racing to unwrap them with oven mitts! This adds a playful, chaotic energy to gift exchanges.
  • The Rice Pudding Game (Risalamande):
    Danes have a fun tradition tied to dessert. Serve a creamy rice pudding with one hidden whole almond. The person who finds the almond wins a prize (often a little marzipan pig in Denmark). You can use any pudding or dessert for a similar tradition in Australia.

2. Bake Together as a Family

Christmas baking is a beloved Scandi tradition that creates wonderful memories and fills your home with delicious aromas.

  • Pepparkakor (Ginger Biscuits):
    Baking these spiced cookies is a must for Scandinavian families. Shape them into stars, hearts, or Christmas trees. Set up a decorating station for the kids with icing and edible decorations to make it even more fun.
  • Cinnamon Buns:
    Celebrate the season by baking fresh cinnamon buns as a family. It’s a hygge-inspired activity that everyone will enjoy, especially with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Tip: Scandinavian-inspired baking tools like rolling pins, cookie cutters, and festive tins can add a special touch to your baking rituals.

3. Create a Scandi-Style Christmas Tree

In Scandinavia, the Christmas tree is more than just decoration—it’s part of the celebration. Traditional trees are adorned with handmade ornaments, straw decorations, and candles.

  • Activity Idea: Gather the kids for a craft afternoon to make ornaments from natural materials like paper, felt, or straw. String popcorn garlands or fold paper hearts to hang on the tree.
  • Go Minimalist: Keep the tree simple and elegant, focusing on natural elements and soft tones. Scandi-style decorations from brands like Maileg or OYOY could inspire your tree’s transformation.

4. Take a Hygge-Inspired Break

Hygge is all about slowing down and enjoying cosy moments with loved ones, even during the hustle and bustle of Christmas.

  • Candlelight Evenings: Set the scene with soft lighting and scented candles. Gather for a storytelling session or a family singalong of Christmas carols.
  • Scandi Picnics: Take hygge outside with a festive picnic under the shade. Spread out blankets (like Klippan’s wool throws or Pappelina rugs) and enjoy homemade treats with your family and friends.

5. Celebrate with Scandinavian Traditions

Why not bring a touch of Nordic culture into your Australian celebrations?

  • Dance Around the Tree: In Scandinavia, families often hold hands and dance around the tree while singing traditional songs. You can adapt this to your garden or living room for a bit of quirky festive fun.
  • Feast Like the Nordics: Serve up a smorgasbord of cured salmon, pickled herring, rye bread, and Swedish meatballs for your Christmas spread. Add some lingonberry jam for a true Scandi touch.

6. Gift an Activity

For families who love spending time together, consider gifting activities rather than material items. Nordic Fusion offers beautiful products that enhance shared moments, like:

This Christmas, let Scandinavia’s love of tradition, family, and simplicity inspire your celebrations. By blending their customs with the Australian summer, you’ll create unique memories that bring your family closer together—Scandi style.

What’s your favourite Christmas tradition? Let us know by tagging us on Instagram @nordicfusion with your festive moments!

Shop our Scandinavian-inspired collection online or visit our Brookvale store to discover everything you need for a magical Christmas.

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