5 Ways to Make This Christmas Unforgettable with Your Family

Christmas is here! It’s a time to celebrate love, joy, and the ultimate gift of Christ’s birth. As we gather with family, let’s turn this season into a vibrant, faith-filled experience that reflects the beauty of God’s goodness. From hosting a sizzling shokaz (braai) to playing exciting games, engaging in a Christmas quiz, winding down with storytelling or movies, and creating a gratitude tree, there’s so much you can do to make this Christmas unforgettable. Ready to light up the season with love and laughter?

1. Fire Up the Grill for a Shokaz (Braai)

Nothing says Christmas like gathering around a sizzling grill with your loved ones. Host a traditional shokaz and let the delicious aroma of grilled nyama choma, boerewors, or spicy fish fill the air. Pair it with pap, roasted maize, or soft chapati for a meal everyone will love.

Before digging in, gather the family for a heartfelt prayer of gratitude. Reflect on God’s provision and the joy of being together. Add a festive African vibe by playing Afrobeat gospel hits in the background. Food is love—and when shared, it’s also worship! More like a burnt offering; we are just playing around.

2. Bring on the Laughter with Family Games

Christmas is the perfect time to unleash some family-friendly competition! Plan a mix of games that get everyone involved:

Traditional Games: Play bao (insolo), ludo, or card games that bring back nostalgic memories.

Outdoor Fun: Organize a soccer match, sack race, or tug-of-war. Let those cheers and laughter glorify God’s gift of joy!

Bible-Based Charades: Act out scenes from the nativity or favorite Bible stories with an African twist.

Let the energy flow and the smiles shine—because where two or more are gathered, God is in the midst of them!

3. Challenge Your Minds with a Christmas Quiz

Turn Christmas into a fun learning moment with a family quiz. Split into teams and include categories like:

The Bible: Test everyone’s knowledge of the nativity story. For example: “What gifts did the wise men bring to baby Jesus?”

African Traditions: What are some unique Christmas customs from Ghana, Kenya, Zambia or South Africa?

Family History: Relive cherished memories by asking about past Christmases or family milestones.

Crown the winning team with small prizes (or even extra servings of chicken!). Laughter and learning are the perfect combination to celebrate God’s blessings.

4. Cozy Up with Stories or Movies

End the day with a warm, cozy family gathering. Choose a Christmas movie that resonates with faith or culture, or dive into storytelling with a meaningful twist:

Bible Stories: Recount the nativity story with excitement and wonder. Add an African touch with local illustrations or interpretations.

Folk Tales: Share African stories that teach virtues like kindness, faith, and perseverance.

Family Testimonies: Reflect on how God has worked in your family’s life over the year.

This quiet, heartfelt time is the perfect way to magnify the true reason for the season—Christ’s birth and God’s love.

5. Reflect on God’s Goodness with a Gratitude Tree

Take a moment to reflect on God’s faithfulness this year with a family gratitude tree. Here’s how to do it:

Use a small potted tree or branch and decorate it with colorful fabrics or ornaments.

Have each family member write something they’re thankful for on slips of paper. It could be as simple as good health or as big as answered prayers.

Hang the notes on the tree, then gather to read them out loud together.

This beautiful act of reflection reminds us of God’s grace and encourages a heart of thankfulness. It’s a visual testament to His blessings in our lives.

Make It a Christmas to Remember

This Christmas, let your family celebration overflow with love, faith, and joy. Whether you’re grilling, gaming, reflecting, or simply laughing together, remember that the greatest gift we’ve received is the love of Christ. Celebrate it boldly, cherish it deeply, and let your home be filled with His presence.

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and stay Godfident! 🎄