Unique Christmas Eve box ideas for kids & adults

There’s something special about the night before Christmas. The lights are twinkling, stockings are hung, and excitement is in the air. Everyone’s thinking the same thing—wouldn’t it be nice to open just one little present early?

Well, a Christmas Eve box might just do the trick. A thoughtful and unique way to make the evening even more magical. Whether it’s a pair of cosy socks, a festive mug for your hot chocolate, or a fun activity to keep the kids entertained, it’s all about making extra memories.

Our Not On The High Street gifting experts have curated the best Christmas Eve box ideas, so you’re not feeling lost. So, grab a mince pie, pop your cosy socks on, and get ready to make your Christmas Eve the most special one yet.

What is a Christmas Eve box?

A Christmas Eve box is a small collection of gifts or treats you open the night before Christmas. Depending on what you pop in there, it can also be a great way to keep little ones entertained or wear them out before bed—after all, we all know that getting them to sleep on Christmas Eve is no mean feat. Think of a Christmas Eve box as a big festive hug, filled with treats to make the night before Christmas feel extra magical.

Although they’re traditionally created for kids, these boxes have grown into a fun tradition for us adults too. And it doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive—you could even pop on your DIY hat and get crafty with just a shoebox wrapped in festive gift-wrapping paper. Alternatively, you can pick up a handcrafted wooden box or find a personalised design online.

What to put in a Christmas Eve box?

If there’s one simple idea behind a Christmas Eve box, it’s to make it as personal as possible. It’s also important to keep things stress-free—your Christmas Eve box ideas don’t need to be complicated. What to include depends on who it’s for.

For children, think about fun activities to keep their little hands (and minds) busy until Santa arrives—because patience can be tricky when you’re five. Adults, on the other hand, might prefer something cosy and calming, like a relaxing treat to help them unwind.

Whatever you choose, the focus should always be on fun and joy—not being extra. Save any of those big-ticket items for Christmas Day.

Christmas Eve box ideas for adults

Just because it’s Christmas doesn’t mean kids get to have all the fun (some might argue that adults need it more). Tailor your Christmas Eve box to someone’s vibe—whether it’s festive food and drink, fun novelty gifts, or something to help them relax. Another option is to include some table games that can be used as evening entertainment through to Twixmas and beyond.

Children's Christmas Eve box ideas

Now that the adults have had their turn, let’s focus on the magic Christmas Eve brings for kids.

A children’s Christmas Eve box is all about building the excitement for Santa’s arrival. You could create a themed box filled with toys and games, their favourite snacks, or even an illustrated personalised festive book from our personalised books collection.

Alternatively, go for something more random, packed with cute little surprises you know they’ll love. The joy of discovering what’s inside is guaranteed to make their Christmas Eve magical.

Other special things to do on Christmas Eve

Why should all the fun stop at the box? Christmas Eve is the perfect time to have fun with family and friends, whether you’ve got yearly traditions or make new ones as you go.

A cosy movie marathon with everyone snuggled up in matching pyjamas is a lovely way to set the tone for the evening and the big day ahead. There’s nothing better than a hot choc and some festive classics like Elf or A Christmas Carol. For families with little ones, prepping the scene for Santa’s arrival adds a whole new level of excitement—and maybe a touch of nostalgia too. Get the kids involved by leaving out mince pies for Santa and carrots for the reindeer. Working together on a handwritten note for the big man himself makes the moment even more memorable. Baking cookies together or pulling out a favourite board game are other fun activities *made* for Christmas Eve. Or, just put the fire on, pop your feet up and enjoy some delicious festive treats.

With a little extra thought, a Christmas Eve box can turn an already special evening into a favourite tradition. Ready to get started curating yours? Explore our Christmas Eve box fillers and create a box that’s as unique as your loved ones receiving it.