What to put in a Christmas Eve box
Christmas Eve boxes are a festive trend that has grown massively in the last few years. It's the act of giving someone a small but meaningful box of Christmas gifts on the 24th December, ahead of the main event the following day.
The treats included are festive and often related to getting cosy – pyjamas, hot chocolate, slippers – and are similar in size to what might be included in a stocking.
Keep reading to learn exactly what a Christmas Eve box is, as well as what to put in one...
What are Christmas Eve boxes?
Christmas Eve boxes have become a way to start the festive fun early. The tradition is thought to have originated in Germany, where people open presents on Christmas Eve. They are typically given to children to break up the presents, beginning the excitement a day earlier.
The best thing about Christmas Eve boxes is that they are completely personalised and unique to the receiver. This means that they can understated and low-key, or lavish – it's all up to you.
Who do you give Christmas Eve boxes to?
The beauty of a Christmas Eve box is that you can fill it with whatever you like and give it to whoever you like.
Adults' Christmas Eve boxes can be filled with boozy, foodie treats, whereas a child's Christmas Eve box might contain pyjamas, a classic Christmas film and some hot chocolate to help them unwind.
Christmas Eve boxes can also be sent to loved ones and family members you might not be able to see in person – just be sure to check the last posting dates for festive parcels.
You could also gift a Christmas Eve box to your pet! You might not have time to give them as much attention on Christmas Day itself if you'll be busy in the kitchen, so show them you care with a box of festive treats.
How do you make a Christmas Eve box?
In the spirit of having a sustainable Christmas, it's a great opportunity to upcycle something you already have. A Christmas Eve box can be put together using any container you like. This might be a pre-loved wooden box, stocking, pillow case, wicker basket, or Christmas packaging left over from last year.
Get to work jazzing up your upcycled gift carrier with festive ribbon, paint or recycled wrapping paper. If you're using fabric, you could try hand-stitching the name of the receiver into the material.
Where can you buy a Christmas Eve box?
If you want to invest in an eco-friendly, personalised Christmas Eve box you can bring back out year after year, there are some lovely options you can buy online. Here are a few of our favourites...
What do you put in a Christmas Eve box? Christmas Eve box gift ideas
The contents of a Christmas Eve box depend on its purpose and the individual receiving it, but here is a list of common Christmas Eve box gifts...
a Christmas film
handmade gifts
a book
a handwritten note or letter
a mug and hot chocolate
sweet treats (choose their favourites)
favourite drinks and tipples
treats for Father Christmas
pyjamas or slippers
cosy socks
a cute soft toy
toiletries (plastic-free preferred)
Christmas scented candle
Creating a man's Christmas Eve box? Here are a few ideas just for them:
whisky miniatures
beard oil or grooming products
Where can you order a Christmas Eve Box?
If you like the idea but don't have the time to put one together yourself, you can order complete Christmas Eve boxes online. This is also a great idea if you don't live with your desired recipient.
Country Living Marketplace, Not On The High Street and Etsy are good places to look for pre-packed Christmas Eve boxes. Expect to see plenty of high-street versions this festive season, too.
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