christmas eve creative writing

150+ Christmas Story Ideas, Tips & Prompts (Fun & Festive)

Welcome to my festive guide of Christmas story ideas, tips, and prompts!

Get ready to ignite your imagination and dive into the magical realm of holiday storytelling. Whether you’re a budding writer or simply seeking inspiration, we’ve got you covered with a treasure trove of dazzling ideas.

So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fire, and let the spirit of Christmas guide your creative journey.

Christmas Story Ideas

Table of Contents

When it comes to Christmas stories, the possibilities are endless.

From heartwarming tales of love and generosity to mysterious adventures and whimsical fantasies, the holiday season provides a rich backdrop for storytelling.

Here is a Santa’s bag full of Christmas story ideas to spark your creativity:

• A young girl discovers a magical snow globe that grants wishes.
• An old man befriends a lonely reindeer and helps save Christmas.
• A mischievous elf causes chaos in Santa’s workshop.
• A family travels back in time and experiences Christmas in different eras.
• A group of friends embarks on a quest to find the perfect Christmas tree.
• A lonely snowman comes to life and goes on an adventure to find his place in the world.
• A secret Santa leaves anonymous gifts for people in need.
• A young boy discovers that his grandfather is secretly Santa Claus.
• A magical ornament brings love and joy to whoever possesses it.
• A young girl writes a letter to Santa asking for her parents to be reunited.
• A child discovers a magical Christmas ornament that grants wishes.
• Two rival families learn the true meaning of Christmas.
• A time traveler experiences Christmas in different eras.
• An unexpected guest changes a family’s Christmas traditions.
• A lost pet finds its way home on Christmas Eve.
• A mysterious figure helps people in need during the holidays.
• A group of kids plan a secret Santa for their neighborhood.
• A Christmas tree farm hides a magical secret.
• An elf accidentally gets left behind in the human world.
• A Christmas market brings together two long-lost friends.
• A snowstorm leads to unexpected friendships and adventures.
• A family heirloom brings about a Christmas miracle.
• A couple rekindles their romance during a snowy Christmas.
• A town without Christmas spirit discovers joy through a child.
• A Christmas play reveals hidden talents and dreams.
• A holiday baking competition sparks rivalry and romance.
• A lonely person finds companionship with a stray animal on Christmas.
• A workaholic rediscovers the joy of Christmas through charity work.
• A Christmas ghost story with a heartwarming twist.
• A family’s first Christmas after a significant loss.
• A Christmas cruise leads to adventure and self-discovery.
• An antique shop’s Christmas items hold magical stories.
• A holiday mix-up leads to unexpected connections.
• A magical Christmas Eve changes a skeptic’s beliefs.
• A Christmas party brings together unlikely individuals.
• A holiday light display competition in a small town.
• A Christmas choir unites a divided community.
• A festive scavenger hunt with a surprising reward.
• A holiday-themed road trip with unexpected stops.
• A family learns the importance of giving rather than receiving.
• A soldier’s Christmas letter home sparks a community movement.
• A Christmas market stall holds the key to solving a mystery.
• A struggling musician finds inspiration during the holidays.
• A holiday romance blossoms in a cozy winter lodge.
• A secret Santa tradition uncovers hidden feelings.
• A Christmas Eve blizzard brings strangers together.
• A holiday decorating contest reveals more than just creativity.
• A magical reindeer helps a child believe in Christmas again.
• A writer finds her muse in a festive small town.
• A Christmas tree whisperer helps trees find their perfect homes.
• A magical Christmas hat that grants the wearer one Christmas wish.
• A family celebrating their first Christmas in space.
• A ghost of Christmas past, present, and future visiting a modern-day Scrooge.
• A Christmas-themed amusement park with a secret.
• A baker who creates cookies that predict the future.
• An orphan’s first Christmas with a new family.
• A journalist uncovering the truth about a Christmas legend.
• A town where it’s Christmas every day.
• A Christmas tree that teleports people to different times.
• A Christmas Eve where all the animals can talk.
• A scientist accidentally creating snow that never melts.
• A famous actor disguised as Santa in a small town.
• A Christmas cruise ship caught in a magical storm.
• A holiday romance between rival Christmas light decorators.
• A family’s quest to deliver a forgotten gift to the North Pole.
• A child’s drawing of Santa coming to life.
• A cursed Christmas ornament causing chaos.
• A mysterious guest at a Christmas charity gala.
• A couple stranded in a remote cabin during Christmas.
• A Christmas market where each stall offers a magical experience.
• A group of strangers snowed in at a train station on Christmas Eve.
• A magical advent calendar with real-life daily surprises.
• A Christmas Eve heist to save a historic landmark.
• A mischievous elf causing mayhem in a toy store.
• A snowman who grants wishes on Christmas night.

Tips for Writing Christmas Stories

Now that you have a list of Christmas story ideas to choose from, here are some tips to help you bring your story to life:

• Start with a strong hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a mysterious letter found under a Christmas tree, or a sudden, unexplained power outage on Christmas Eve. Your opening should immediately immerse the reader in the story’s world and set the tone for what’s to come.
• Create memorable characters that readers can relate to. These could be characters facing relatable challenges, like a single parent struggling to create the perfect Christmas, or a child experiencing their first holiday after a significant loss. Give each character distinct traits and motivations to make them feel real.
• Set the scene by describing the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas. This involves painting a vivid picture of twinkling lights, the aroma of cinnamon and pine, and the soft sound of carols in the distance. Use sensory details to transport your readers directly into the world of your story.
• Use dialogue to bring your characters to life and convey emotions. Dialogue can reveal a lot about your characters, like their personality, background, and current mood. An excited child’s chatter about Santa, or a couple’s tender conversation about past Christmases, can add depth to your story.
• Build tension and suspense to keep readers engaged . This might involve a series of mysterious events leading up to Christmas or a family secret that’s revealed during the holiday dinner. Keep your readers guessing what will happen next.
• Weave in themes of love, hope, and generosity. Christmas stories often revolve around these themes. Show characters performing acts of kindness, like a businessperson helping a homeless person, or a child learning the importance of giving.
• Show the transformation and growth of your main character. This is key in Christmas stories. Maybe a cynical character learns the joy of giving, or a lonely individual finds a sense of belonging. Show how the magic of Christmas brings about change in your characters.
• Add unexpected twists and turns to keep readers guessing. Perhaps a character who hates Christmas ends up saving the day, or a planned holiday goes completely awry, leading to unexpected joy.
• End on a satisfying note that leaves readers feeling warm and joyful. This doesn’t always mean a happy ending in the traditional sense, but your story should resolve in a way that aligns with the spirit of Christmas, leaving your readers with a sense of closure and contentment.

Prompts to Inspire Your Christmas Story

If you’re looking for more specific ideas to get started, here are some writing prompts to inspire your Christmas story:

• Write a story about a Christmas miracle that changes someone’s life.
• Imagine a world where Christmas is celebrated in a completely different way.
• Create a story based on a memorable Christmas tradition from your own life.
• Write a story about a character who is on Santa’s naughty list and must find a way to redeem themselves.
• Imagine what would happen if Santa’s sleigh broke down on Christmas Eve.
• Write a story about a magical Christmas ornament that grants wishes.
• Create a story where Christmas is in danger and only a group of unlikely heroes can save the day.
• Write a story about the true meaning of Christmas and how it can change someone’s perspective.
• Imagine a world where it’s Christmas every day and the challenges that would come with it.
• Create a story about a character who receives the gift they’ve always wanted but realizes it’s not what they expected.
• Write about a Christmas Eve where every wish written to Santa comes true.
• A story of two strangers stuck in an airport during Christmas.
• Imagine a world where Christmas is banned and how characters react.
• A family’s last Christmas before their children leave for college.
• A magical snow globe that shows potential future Christmases.
• A retired Santa Claus adjusting to life outside the North Pole.
• A character experiencing their first Christmas in a foreign country.
• A detective solving a mystery during a Christmas party.
• A Christmas angel mistakenly visits the wrong family.
• A couple experiencing their first Christmas after adopting a child.
• A story centered around a unique Christmas tradition in a small town.
• A Christmas market that appears only once every hundred years.
• A character who can hear what Christmas decorations are thinking.
• A family’s quest to find the perfect Christmas tree.
• A character revisiting their hometown for Christmas after many years.
• An office Christmas party that leads to unexpected revelations.
• A lonely widower’s Christmas turns magical with a stranger’s arrival.
• Children planning a secret Christmas gift for their parents.
• A magical Christmas pastry that makes people tell the truth.
• A Christmas Eve blizzard that changes everything for a small community.
• A group of friends exchanging handmade gifts for Christmas.
• A character learning about different Christmas traditions worldwide.
• A toy store’s struggle to survive its last Christmas season.
• A character volunteering at a shelter during the holidays.
• A mysterious Christmas card that arrives every year from an unknown sender.
• A character trying to create the perfect Christmas for a loved one.
• A tale of two cities celebrating Christmas in vastly different ways.
• A character who discovers they’re related to Santa Claus.
• An unexpected romance at a Christmas-themed resort.
• A family’s first Christmas after adopting a pet.
• A group of kids trying to prove Santa Claus is real.
• A holiday baking disaster that leads to a sweet romance.
• A Christmas tree that grants the wish of whoever decorates it.
• A character who hates Christmas until they experience a true Christmas spirit.
• A story about finding lost love during the holiday season.
• A mysterious advent calendar with daily magical surprises.
• A holiday-themed treasure hunt in a snowy mountain village.
• A character facing their first Christmas after a major life change.
• A Christmas parade that brings a divided town together.
• A story about the friendship between a child and a snowman.
• Write about a Christmas where the northern lights bring magic to a small village.
• Imagine a Christmas without snow that leads to unexpected adventures.
• A secret Santa who really is Santa Claus in disguise.
• A family inherits an old mansion with a Christmas mystery.
• A Christmas pageant that goes hilariously wrong.
• A character who finds a portal to the North Pole in their basement.
• A snowy Christmas in a tropical country, and its magical cause.
• A character attending a Christmas costume party where something magical happens.
• A Christmas where every gift is a clue to a family treasure.
• A holiday-themed reality show with a twist.
• A child’s belief in Santa bringing about a miracle.
• A character learning about Christmas traditions from around the world.
• A mysterious figure saving Christmas in a city.
• A group of friends finding a magical Christmas village in the woods.
• A Christmas wish that leads to an epic adventure.
• A grumpy old man’s transformation during the holiday season.
• A Christmas carol that comes to life.
• A magical wreath that transports people to different Christmas settings.
• A toy maker who discovers his creations are alive.
• A family’s first Christmas on a deserted island.
• A pet’s perspective on Christmas.
• A character waking up in a Christmas-themed world.
• A historical Christmas story with a touch of magic.
• A Christmas tree decorating contest with a mystical prize.
• A Christmas Eve where wishes made at midnight come true.

Here is a fun video with more Christmas story writing prompts:

How Can I Come Up with New and Exciting Christmas Story Ideas?

Coming up with fresh and engaging Christmas story ideas can sometimes be a challenge.

To get your creative juices flowing, try the following tips:

First, think about traditional Christmas themes and brainstorm ways to put a unique spin on them. Consider incorporating unexpected settings, characters, or plot twists to make your story stand out.

Next, gather inspiration from your own experiences or those of others.

Draw from personal memories, traditions, or even historical events to add depth and authenticity to your stories.

What Are Some Tips for Writing Compelling Christmas Stories?

Writing a compelling Christmas story involves capturing the essence of the holiday spirit while keeping readers engaged.

Here are a few tips to make your Christmas stories more captivating.

Focus on creating relatable and well-developed characters who encounter meaningful conflicts, which can be resolved by the end of the story.

This helps readers connect emotionally with the narrative.

Incorporate vivid descriptions of Christmas settings, decorations, and traditions to evoke a strong sense of atmosphere and immerse readers in the festive spirit.

How Can I Make My Christmas Stories Appeal to a Wide Audience?

To make your Christmas stories appeal to a broad audience, consider the following strategies.

First, focus on universal themes and emotions that resonate with people from various backgrounds. Love, family, gratitude, and the spirit of giving are just a few examples of themes that can transcend cultural boundaries.

Additionally, strive for inclusivity and diversity in your character portrayals.

Represent different cultures, traditions, and beliefs in a respectful and authentic manner, fostering a sense of inclusiveness that can resonate with readers from diverse backgrounds.

Final Thoughts: Christmas Story Ideas

With these ideas and tips, you’re ready to embark on your own Christmas storytelling adventure.

Happy writing!

Related Posts:

• 200+ Winter Words To Grow Your Vocabulary
• 550+ Best ChatGPT Prompts for Writing a Novel (Master List)
• How to Write a Novel With ChatGPT (Ultimate Guide in 2023)
• 346 Fluff Prompts (Easy & Unique)

🎉 Our next novel writing master class starts in – ! Claim your spot →

BEST CHRISTMAS WRITING PROMPTS

Join (probably?) the world's largest writing contest. Flex those creative muscles with weekly writing prompts.

Showing 28 prompts reset

Save the date, write a story in which a character is stuck reliving their worst christmas ever, over and over again., write a story in which a cynical character gets amnesia on christmas eve., write a story about a family (biological or found) coming together for christmas., write a story about two people stringing up christmas lights together for the first time., write a story about a character obsessed with nutmeg..

Introducing Prompted , a new magazine written by you!

🏆 Featuring 12 prize-winning stories from our community. Download it now for FREE .

• In the form of Christmas wishlists over the years, write a story about a character growing up.

You are Santa Claus, and you're running late for work because you're stuck in the middle of a traffic jam caused by a Justice for Reindeer protest.

"excuse me," someone says to you, tapping you on the shoulder. "are these your antlers you dropped them.", write a story set in a department store during the christmas sales., you volunteer at a homeless shelter. write a story about spending christmas day there., subscribe to our prompts newsletter.

Never miss a prompt! Get curated writing inspiration delivered to your inbox each week.

Your neighbor has blasted Christmas music every day of December for eight years… until one day the music stops.

Write a story about a white elephant party that goes terribly go wrong., start your story with the sentence: "this is the story of how i became worse than the grinch.", write a story about a christmas dinner from the perspective of the family of mice that lives in the fireplace., you accidentally left cookies out on the table on christmas eve. the next morning, they're gone — and you're the only person in the house., write about a character who is returning home for christmas for the first time in a long time., write about light returning to a place that has been deprived of it for a long time, literally or figuratively., write a story about someone seeking a fresh start after a difficult year., write about a character reflecting on the previous year., begin or end your story with “well, that was dramatic.”, win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

We'll send you 5 prompts each week. Respond with your short story and you could win $250!

Contest #264 LIVE

Enter our weekly contest.

This week's theme: Save the Date

Prize money

Contest entries, closes at 23:59 - aug 23, 2024 est, recent contests ✍️.

#263 – Heroes and Villains

#262 – Turn Up the Heat

#261 – Gratitude

#260 – A Twist in the Tale

Recent winners 🏆

Tess Ross-Callahan – read

Sandrine Hu – read

Elizabeth Hoban – read

Christine Foy – read

Leaderboard 🥇

#1 Zilla Babbitt

32402 points

#2 Deidra Whitt Lovegren

28765 points

#3 Abigail Airuedomwinya

22427 points

#4 Graham Kinross

14639 points

#5 Scout Tahoe

13200 points

#6 Chris Campbell

11703 points

#7 Thom With An H

10705 points

#8 Rayhan Hidayat

10219 points

#9 Michał Przywara

9965 points

#10 Deborah Mercer

9615 points

We made a writing app for you

Yes, you! Write. Format. Export for ebook and print. 100% free, always.

The best writing prompts for Christmas

"All I Want For Christmas Is You"? Trite. "Jingle Bells"? Boring. Miracle on 34th Street? Overplayed. "Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town"? Pass!

Instead of turning to the same old holiday traditions, why not embrace the Christmas spirit by writing about it this year? From reindeer soaring in the sky to sleighs gliding on the snow, writing prompts are a fun way to celebrate the holiday season that can help invigorate the memories of students and get kids to come up with all sorts of creative ideas about everything holiday-flavored. And sharing the stories around a Christmas tree is one of those family activities that you just can’t beat.

If you’re looking to cut to the festive chase, here are ten top Christmas writing prompts:

• Every year around Christmas, Satan accidentally gets thousands of letters from children writing to Santa. This year, however, he gets a letter that makes him sit up and take notice.
• Start your story with one character making a vow they would never have made the year before.
• The turkey is on the floor. Stuffing is stuck to the ceiling. The tree has been toppled over. The presents have been singed. What happened to cause this chaotic Christmas scene?
• Write about a character who won’t (or can’t) shop for the holidays.
• Write about a character who’s stuck in a shopping mall.
• Write about Christmas Day from Rudolph's perspective.
• Write about light returning to a place deprived of it for a long time, literally or figuratively.
• "Excuse me," someone says to you, tapping you on the shoulder. "Are these your antlers? You dropped them."
• You are Santa Claus, and you're running late for work because you're stuck in the middle of a traffic jam caused by a Justice for Reindeer protest.

If you have a student who’s interested in learning how to write stories beyond the holiday season, check out our free resources on the topic:

How to Write a Short Story (free course) — Short stories are one of the greatest writing forms, and it’s never too early to learn how to write them. In this free ten-day course, Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who’s worked with authors like Joyce Carol Oates, takes students through the whole process. From coming up with story ideas to writing the story itself, Larau will cover it all for writers of every age.

Ready to start writing? Check out Reedsy’s weekly short story contest for the chance of winning $250! You can also check out our list of writing contests or our directory of literary magazines for more opportunities to submit your story.

NEW VIDEO COURSE 🎉

How to Write a Novel

Join Tom Bromley for a writing master class and finish your first draft in 3 months . Learn more →

Explore more writing prompt ideas:

Adults Writing Prompts ⭢

Adventure Writing Prompts ⭢

Angst Writing Prompts ⭢

Character Writing Prompts ⭢

Christmas Writing Prompts ⭢

Dark Writing Prompts ⭢

Dialogue Writing Prompts ⭢

Dramatic Writing Prompts ⭢

Dystopian Writing Prompts ⭢

Fall Writing Prompts ⭢

Fantasy Writing Prompts ⭢

Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Fluff Writing Prompts ⭢

Funny Writing Prompts ⭢

Halloween Writing Prompts ⭢

High School Writing Prompts ⭢

Historical Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Holiday Writing Prompts ⭢

Horror Writing Prompts ⭢

Kids Writing Prompts ⭢

Middle School Writing Prompts ⭢

Mystery Writing Prompts ⭢

Narrative Writing Prompts ⭢

Nonfiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Novel Writing Prompts ⭢

Poetry Writing Prompts ⭢

Romance Writing Prompts ⭢

Sad Writing Prompts ⭢

Science Fiction Writing Prompts ⭢

Short Story Writing Prompts ⭢

Spring Writing Prompts ⭢

Summer Writing Prompts ⭢

Teens Writing Prompts ⭢

Thanksgiving Writing Prompts ⭢

Thriller and Suspense Writing Prompts ⭢

Valentine's Day Writing Prompts ⭢

Vampire Writing Prompts ⭢

Winter Writing Prompts ⭢

Oops, you need an account for that!

Log in with your social account:

Or enter your email:

• All Editing
• Manuscript Assessment
• Developmental editing: use our editors to perfect your book
• Copy Editing
• Agent Submission Pack: perfect your query letter & synopsis
• Short Story Review: get insightful & actionable feedback
• Our Editors
• All Courses
• Ultimate Novel Writing Course
• Path to Publication: Navigate the world of traditional publishing
• Simply Self-Publish: The Ultimate Self-Pub Course for Indies
• How To Write A Novel In 6 Weeks
• Self-Edit Your Novel: Edit Your Own Manuscript
• Jumpstart Your Novel: How To Start Writing A Book
• Creativity For Writers: How To Find Inspiration
• Edit Your Novel the Professional Way
• All Mentoring
• Agent One-to-Ones
• First 500 Novel Competition
• London Festival of Writing
• Online Events
• Getting Published Month
• Build Your Book Month
• Meet the Team
• Work with us
• Success Stories
• Novel writing
• Publishing industry
• Self-publishing
• Success stories
• Writing Tips
• Featured Posts
• Get started for free
• About Membership
• Upcoming Events
• Video Courses

Novel writing ,

50 christmas story ideas, tips & prompts.

By N J Simmonds

Are you trying to write a festive novel but have run out of ideas? Or perhaps you need some snowy inspiration for your Christmas short story. In this article we will be sharing lots of fun Christmas writing prompts to kick-start your winter writing – plus we’ve also asked top Christmas book authors for their inspiring tips . 

Why Write Christmas Novels?  

Christmas is a magical time of year. And for many of us who experience it during the darkest, coldest months, it can be the only fun and joyous occasion of the entire season. That’s why Christmas novels are so popular. There’s nothing cosier, on a bleak winter’s day, than huddling under a blanket with a mug of hot cocoa and a book full of festive cheer, plus all the nostalgia and decadence that goes with it. 

That’s not to say all Christmas books have to be romances or women’s fiction. The great thing about writing with Christmas in mind is that it can be applied to any genre – from festive chillers and thrillers , to horror stories and gruesome tales that take place during the most magical time of the year.    Read on to discover some great Christmas writing prompts, plus top tips from leading authors of festive books. Although bear in mind that these are adult writing prompts – so may not be suitable if you’re looking for December writing prompts for your classroom or children !  

20 Christmas Story Starters And Festive Prompts  

The great thing about writing a Christmas sho r t story , novel or novella is that no one expects anything too serious in winter. So let your imagination run wild! As long as you include plenty of festive fun, nostalgic traditions, and a sprinkle of magic then you’re on to a winter winner.    Here are our twenty Christmas story ideas and prompts, split into four different Christmas genres…. 

Christmas Rom-Com

• A teacher is putting on a school nativity play. She don’t get on with the new teaching assistant and things start to go terribly wrong…until they realise love is blooming among the mistletoe. 
• She hates Christmas day at her parents as all they ever talk about is how she is single and childless. Except this year they’ve invited the neighbours – along with their three very different (and very attractive) sons! 
• Her boyfriend dumped her on Christmas Eve, so she jets off to an exotic hot country to forget all about the festive season. But the local waiter refuses to let her remain sad and grumpy. 
• Ever since his cat, Snowy, was run over on Christmas Day Tom has hated Christmas. This year he decides to stay home alone…until a cat appears on his doorstep. A cat belonging to his crazy new neighbour. 
• Single mother, Carol, has to attend ten different Christmas school events for her three children and she’s at the end of her tether. Then she realises the same handsome man is at all of them too. Coincidence? Or fate? 

Christmas Romance

• She’s gone on a trip to Lapland to get away for the winter as the man she has always loved is getting married over Christmas. But when she’s snowed in at a secluded log cabin only the rugged local Finnish guy can help her. 
• She’s so frustrated with her annoying parents on Christmas Day that she goes on a long country walk, steps into a secluded old chapel, and finds herself face to face with a very handsome man. The only problem is she’s gone back 100 years in history. 
• Christmas day 1998 was perfect because Danny, the boy next door, shared his first kiss with her. Guess who just moved in next door to her new house? 
• Ivy has built a snowman. Not only has he come to life…but she’s fallen in love with him. Will their love last longer than the winter? 
• She’s new to the village and is struggling to make friends. She’s thinking of going back home for Christmas, until the community pull together to convince her to stay…all orchestrated by one very special someone. 

Christmas Thriller 

• A mother and father wake up one Christmas morning wondering why it’s so quiet. Where are the kids? They go into their room and the beds are empty, the stockings untouched. The window is open and the cookies have been eaten. Next to the carrot is a note. 
• They thought renting a little cottage in the secluded countryside would be romantic for Christmas. Until they discovered a body. 
• Nancy is overjoyed to be invited to the lavish New Year’s Eve party that the McPartlans throw every year. Except this year it’s different. This year, every hour on the hour, a new guest is discovered dead. 
• Sally wants to stay home alone for Christmas. But someone has trapped her in her house, and now she can’t get out even if she tries. 
• Christmas shopping on the high street is crazy. Holly is convinced she’s seen a store Santa bundling a woman into the back of a car. But no one believes her…until the woman turns up dead. 

Christmas Horror 

• Father Christmas is real, but he’s not entering your house to leave gifts. It’s something a lot more sinister. 
• Santa’s elves are real and they are living inside the walls of your house. 
• When Harry kissed Anabelle under the mistletoe he didn’t expect her to grow fangs. 
• Christmas day in a secluded log cabin is ever so romantic…unless you discover someone is trying to kill you. 
• No one can hear you scream when it’s midnight, you’re in the middle of nowhere and the world is muffled with snow. 

For added fun, why not mix and match some of these ideas or change their genres. Let’s see what wondrous seasonal ideas you can come up with! 

10 Top Tips For Writing Seasonal Stories By Successful Christmas Authors

1. seek out other christmas book writers writing at the same time as you  .

A Christmas Club, if you wish! it’s a great way of batting over and back in terms of keeping you in the flow and reminding you of those little things that might not be exactly obvious when writing out of season.  Faith Hogan, author of On The First Day Of Christmas  

2. Recreate The Sensory Atmosphere Of Christmas  

You may want to light some scented candles that smell like Christmas trees, enjoy freshly baked mince pies, make the room dark and put up fairy lights etc. Even watching a Christmas movie or seeking out snowy landscapes (or other seasonal landscape depending on where you are in the world) on Youtube can help too.  Beth Kempton, author of Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy 

3. Plan Well Ahead!

I start my Christmas novellas as early as February! Victoria Connelly, author of Christmas with the Book Lovers

4. Follow Your Favourite Christmas Book Author On Social Media  

Reach out and tell them about what you’re writing, they may be able to give you more tips! It’s always good to expand your circle of writers in the same genre as you! Faith Hogan, author of On The First Day Of Christmas 

5. Research Christmas Traditions From All Around The World  

Our Christmas novella is set in Lapland, and because our books are paranormal romance we created some fun monsters inspired by Finnish folklore, and added plenty of local Christmas customs too. Think outside of your own experiences and talk to people who have other wonderful and (sometimes creepy) customs. Caedis Knight, author of Goblins of Lapland

6. Make Notes Throughout The Winter

If you have a long lead time, make notes about your mood and emotions throughout the winter (or look back at old journals). Rereading them will help if you then have to write out of season. Beth Kempton, author of Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A Little Book of Festive Joy  

7. Give Them What They Came For

People who buy Christmas novels expect to see certain things. So give it to them! Make sure to describe the beautiful tree, the hot chocolate, the ice skating, the kiss under the mistletoe. Don’t try and be clever by adding a twist to what they’re expecting…it may fall flat. Caedis Knight, author of Goblins of Lapland

8. Listen To Lots Of Christmas music

I wrote my last Christmas book during a heatwave, at the height of the pandemic. I listened to a lot of Christmas music to get me in the right frame of mind. Rachel Wells, author of Alfie The Christmas Cat

9. Make a List (And Check It Twice)

Make a sheet with five columns for each sensory aspect of Christmas and jot down everything you can think of that’s Christmassy – from what you smell, see and hear, to what you expect to see at Christmas. This also helps with setting and plot. Rosie Blake, author of How To Stuff Up Christmas

10. You can Never Be TOO Christmassy!

Add all the festive cheer fun and heartwarming cheer you possibly can. there’s no such thing as too much when it comes to this time of year! Emma Jackson, author of A Mistletoe Miracle and One Kiss Before Christmas

Ten Top Tips From Author Isabella May  

We asked Isabella May, author of deliciously adorable Christmas rom-com, Twinkle Twinkle Little Bar , to share what it takes to write festive foodie fiction.  

Here are her 10 tips on writing an unforgettable Christmas story: 

1. More Is More

This is Christmas we are talking about so there’s no such thing as too many decorations appearing in your story.

2. Read And Watch Christmas Books And Movie s

Don’t try to emulate what others have done but look at the many festive tropes that are out there and try to bring your own fresh angle. 

3. Immerse Yourself In The Tastes And Smells Of Christmas

It may seem a little extravagant but eating that Christmas pud that’s been lying in wait since FOREVER in the kitchen cupboard and/or buying yourself a fragrant pine-scented Yankee candle, will turbo boost your festive thoughts and lead to some great plot ideas.

4. Think Snow Globe Community Spirit!

The most successful Christmas books have all the characters united in festive fizz… eventually. ‘Tis the season of goodwill, after all.

5. It’s Back To The Senses Again

Dust off the Wham/Cliff Richard/Mariah Carey and play all the Yuletide jingles. You’ll cringe at first but honestly, this is another tried and tested way to get in the spirit and up your daily word count. 

6. Think Of Christmas Past

No, not in a Scrooge way… but reminiscing on the highlights of your own Christmas holidays from childhood can shape and inspire so many scenes in your book.

7. Fact Check

It’s easy to get carried away with the celebratory side of Christmas when we are knee-deep in a glowy, hygge, and twinkly-light festooned story, so we need to be certain that the Italian festive foodie delights we’ve just added to our MC’s dialogue really are typically served in December (and spelt correctly).

8. Research Your Destination Well

Nobody is saying you can’t set your story in Iceland (complete with those tantalising views of the Northern Lights) but if you haven’t been to the location of your Christmas book’s setting, you’d better do some serious armchair travelling (and talking with locals who are native to the area, if possible) to give your readers the most authentic portrayal of the place.

9. Keep It Light

The best Christmas stories are fluffy, frivolous and entertaining. There are always exceptions to the rule, but generally speaking, bookworms turn to festive fiction for escapism/to get themselves in the Christmas spirit when their own may be flagging. Always remember, Christmas can be a hard time of year for many people. Avoid sensitive and/or trigger warning subjects. Readers want to be uplifted and entertained. Your goal as a writer is to give them that warm fuzzy feeling from tip to toe; a hot chocolate hug in a book.

10. Once You Start Writing Christmas Books, Know That It’s Almost Impossible To Stop!  

Readers have a VORACIOUS appetite for Christmas books and this genre is growing by the season. It’s fine to dabble but your fans will expect an annual festive work of fiction from you (if you first went down with the joy of a Bailey’s on ice), so it’s best to have a word with your inner Grinch before you commit to typing your very first Christmassy word… 

Christmas Title Ideas  

And finally, no Christmas book is complete without the perfect title . But how do you choose one that demonstrates it’s a Christmas book in your genre, yet isn’t a title that’s been used a million times already?     Here are our top ten title tips! 

1. Look At Other Festive Books In Your Genre

Check for consistencies and see how many words they use. Thrillers tend to be 2-5 short words and really self-explanatory (ie The Christmas Killer , Alex Pine), whereas Christmas romance and romcoms can have longer, prettier, and more intricate titles (ie One More Christmas At The Castle, Trisha Ashley). 

2. Describe The Story

Unless you are writing literary fiction, it helps to have a title that makes it very clear what the book is about. So if your book is about Christmas on a desert island, then call your book something like ‘ A Desert Island Christmas .’ 

3. Use Lyrics From A Christmas Song Or Hymn  

‘ All I Want For Christmas ’ is a popular book title for romance novels, as is ‘ Silent Night’ for thrillers and horror books. So get original and have fun seeing what matches the theme of your book. For instance, you may write a book about two best friends and call it ‘ Holly And Ivy ’ or a rom-com set in the 50s called ‘ Rocking Around The Christmas Tree .’ 

4. Don’t Be Scared Of Puns  

Christmas is the cheesiest time of the year, so don’t hold back from getting corny if need be. You may name your rom-com novel about reindeer farmers in Finland, ‘ Looks Like Rain, Dear,’ or your Christmas horror ‘ Santa Claws Bites Back’ . These are all silly suggestions, I know, but you get the idea. A much classier example is Isabella May’s Christmas novel ‘ Twinkle Twinkle Little Bar.’  

5. Make It Clear That It’s Part Of A Series

If you’re writing a series of books, your cover designer will no doubt ensure that they all look the same but different – so do make sure the titles match too. Nancy Revell has done that with her Shipyard Girls books ( Shipyard Girls Under The Mistletoe, Christmas with The S hipyard Girls and A Christmas Wish For The Shipyard Girls).  

6. Use The Word ‘Christmas’ In The Title

This may sound simple, perhaps too simple, but it works. If you’re writing a modern Cinderella retelling, calling it ‘ A Cinderella Christmas’ means people who are looking for a Christmas book that’s like Cinderella, and type those words into Google or Amazon, will find your book more easily!

7. Keep It Simple  

People looking for a festive read are rarely interested in anything too complicated or highbrow. Depending on the genre, choose a title that reflects the mood of the book – but keep it simple. Instead of calling it ‘ The Haunted Mind and Festive Regrets of Peter Cumberbatch ’ you could simply call it ‘ Ghosts of Christmas Past’ . 

8. Use Words Associated With Christmas

If your book is more literary or a thriller, and you don’t want readers to think they’ll be getting a cutesy festive read, then use words associated with Christmas that are a little more serious: Snow, Winter, Snowflake, Midnight, Night, Cold etc.

9. State Where The Book Takes Place  

If you’re writing cosy Christmas romance or women’s fiction, ‘ Christmas at (insert location)’ Works really well. It may seem formulaic but there’s a reason why these books sell well. ‘ Christmas at…the cosy café…the olde bookshop…Mannering Manor…Penny Lane ’ – you get the picture.  

10. Have Fun With The Title

Sometimes people don’t even know they want to read a Christmas book until they see the title. So choose something that will make them feel nostalgic, make them smile, or make them yearn for the comfort and excitement of Christmas.

Get Cracking!

We hope you found our Christmas prompts and ideas article interested. Once you’ve played around with some fun festive ideas, made a note of our top author tips, and seen what kind of titles will get the attention of agents, editors and readers, you should be ready to get started on your Christmas cracker of a novel.  

There’s snow time like the (Christmas) present. Get writing and have fun! 

About the author

Natali is an author and was previously our Head of Community & Editorial Commissions. As N J Simmonds she's written the RONA shortlisted fantasy series The Indigo Chronicles, Manga comics, and is one half of paranormal romance author duo Caedis Knight. Her stories are magical, historical and full of complex women, page-turning twists and plenty of romance. As well as writing, she lectures on storytelling, marketing, and self-branding . Originally from London, she now lives with her family in the Netherlands and Spain. For more about Natali, see her Twitter , or Amazon author page .

Most popular posts in...

Advice on getting an agent.

• How to get a literary agent
• Literary Agent Fees
• How To Meet Literary Agents
• Tips To Find A Literary Agent
• Literary agent etiquette
• UK Literary Agents
• US Literary Agents

Help with getting published

• How to get a book published
• How long does it take to sell a book?
• Tips to meet publishers
• What authors really think of publishers
• Getting the book deal you really want
• 7 Years to Publication

Get to know us for free

• Join our bustling online writing community
• Make writing friends and find beta readers
• Take part in exclusive community events
• Get our super useful newsletters with the latest writing and publishing insights

Or select from our premium membership deals:

Premium annual – most popular.

per month, minimum 12-month term

Or pay up front, total cost £150

Premium Flex

Cancel anytime

Paid monthly

Privacy Overview

Christmas Writing Prompts: 95 Fun Ideas to Get You Started

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: August 31, 2022  - Last updated: December 7, 2023

Categories Creativity , Inspiration , Writing

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and fun. It’s also a great time to get creative and write new stories! If you’re looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered. This blog post will provide 95 Christmas writing prompts to help get you started. Whether a beginner or an experienced writer, these prompts will help you create some amazing nonfiction and fiction writing!

95 Christmas Writing Prompts

Below you’ll find various types of Christmas writing prompts to inspire various kinds of writing.

Christmas Writing Prompts for Your Journal to Spark Your Creativity!

Whether you’re looking for inspiration for your activities this year or just want to reminisce, writing your December writing prompt (or several) in a journal is a great way to capture your memories.

Writing a Christmas journal can also help you feel connected to the vacation season, even if you’re not religious.

It’s easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, and it’s hard to remember all the little things that make Christmas so special. But writing them down will help you remember them better and reflect on how much the vacation season means to you.

Here are 33 Christmas journal prompts to help you get started:

• What do you think of when you hear the word “Christmas”?
• What’s the most important thing about Christmas?
• What’s your favorite part of Christmas?
• What do you like about Christmas Eve?
• Do you prefer giving or receiving gifts? And why?
• What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received?
• What’s the worst Christmas present you’ve ever received?
• What bugs you every year when the Christmas season comes around again (a song that gets played too often on the radio, a movie that gets shown too often on TV, etc.)? Does that feeling change depending on whether you have a gift or not?
• What’s the most thoughtful gift you’ve ever given someone for Christmas?
• Write about an experience where you realized Santa wasn’t real or where someone else knew he wasn’t real while you didn’t yet know.
• How do you like to decorate for Christmas?
• What do you like best about Christmas dinner?
• Who’s your favorite person to go shopping with during the holidays?
• What’s your favorite Christmas song? And why? What’re the lyrics about?
• What do you feel when you hear “Jingle Bells”?
• What’s your favorite memory of the holidays?
• Do you remember a funny or embarrassing gift given to someone in your family sometime during the holidays? What was it, and how did they react when they unwrapped it on Christmas Day (or the vacation they celebrated)?
• Have you ever had a white Christmas? If so, what was it like?
• How many Christmases can you remember from your childhood? What’s your favorite memory of Christmas in your childhood home?
• Do you’ve any traditions that are typical of your family or culture?
• Do you think you should spend Christmas with your family or friends?
• If you could only celebrate Christmas with 5 people, who’d they be and why?
• What would be different if there was no Christmas or Halloween (or any other vacation)?
• If everything were possible, what would be your ideal Christmas day?
• How will you celebrate this year?
• Who’s your favorite person to spend time with during the holidays? And why?
• What’s your favorite thing to cook/bake on the holidays?
• If you could spend Christmas with anyone in history, who’d it be and why?
• What’s your favorite winter activity (other than skiing or skating)?
• Do you’ve any traditions or superstitions related to Christmas?
• If you could give your best friend anything for Christmas, what would you give them?
• If you could give one gift to everyone in the world, what would it be?
• If you were Santa Claus, how would you make Christmas morning special for children worldwide?

Creative Writing Prompt Suggestions for a Christmas Story

If you don’t know what story to write, start with a simple idea and then develop it as you go.

Here are 22 Christmas creative writing prompt suggestions that can help you improve your creative writing skills and develop new ideas:

• Describe your first Christmas memory
• Write a story about trying to find the perfect gift for someone you love.
• Write about a Christmas family tradition you’d like to keep but can’t.
• Write about the funniest thing that happened to you this year.
• Write about someone who’s always late, but for some reason, you don’t mind at all if they’re late for Christmas dinner with your family this year.
• Write about how long it’s been since you’ve seen some of your closest friends or family members at Christmas (for example, if they live abroad or have moved away).
• Write about what it would be like if Father Christmas existed and came to visit you on Christmas Eve this year!
• Write a short poem describing how you feel about the holidays.
• Write about your favorite Christmas movie or book and what it means to you personally as an adult, as opposed to when you were younger.
• Describe your favorite Christmas character. And why.
• Write about a Christmas miracle (real or imagined) that happened to you or someone you know.
• Write about what happened when Santa Claus tried to deliver the presents on Christmas Eve last year… But somehow failed? Or was he successful? You decide!
• Write a list of things you’re thankful for this year, including people and important things (like your family, pets, friends, and school).
• Describe the best Christmas tree and Christmas lights you’ve ever seen
• Write about something that could replace a Christmas tree. Why would it be a good substitute? Would you decorate it? And how?
• Invent a Christmas tradition you’d like to start this year with your family or friends! What’ll it be? Who’ll do it? Why? How often will it take place? What’s planned for next year?
• Describe your favorite Christmas smell (candles, cinnamon buns).
• Write about the magic of Christmas.
• Describe a Christmas in winter
• Describe a Christmas in summer
• Write a story about a family trying to save money at Christmas
• Write about how Santa Claus (Father Christmas) gets stuck in your chimney, and you must help him.

25 Christmas Writing Prompts About History and Culture

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, filled with delicious food, family and friends, and presents. But there are also many interesting facts about Christmas, such as how it spread to different parts of the world and how it’s celebrated today.

Here are 25 Christmas writing prompts to help you learn more about the history and culture of Christmas.

• In what year was Christmas recognized as a national vacation in the United States?
• What’s the history of St. Nicholas Day, and what does it have to do with Christmas?
• Write a Christmas story about the first Christmas tree, inspired by the story of Christ’s birth in the Bible.
• Write a short story about what happened on the night of Jesus’s birth.
• What do other religions have in common with Christmas?
• Write about what it was like to celebrate Christmas in the 17th century.
• How did art reflect what was happening in the world at that time?
• What do you think Santa Claus would have looked like in ancient times?
• How has Christmas decoration and Christmas spirit changed over time?
• Compare and contrast how people celebrated Christmas in different countries and at different times.
• What do you think people will be doing at Christmas 20 years from now? In 50 years? In 100 years?
• What do you like best about caroling? And why?
• Is there anything else in the world that makes people believe in magic, like Santa Claus?
• Describe what it was like to grow up in another country or culture where Christmas isn’t celebrated today – what’s celebrated there instead and why?
• When did Santa Claus become popular in Western culture?
• What’s the story behind Santa’s red suit?
• Who decided that children should get toys for Christmas and why?
• Why isn’t Thanksgiving celebrated everywhere Christmas is celebrated?
• What’re the 5 best Christmas books in the world?
• What’re the 5 best Christmas movies in the world?
• Which artists were born on Christmas Day?
• Which politicians were born on Christmas Day?
• What’s the most famous Christmas carol in the USA, and why?
• What’s the story of the Nutcracker (Christmas time ballet)?
• Where in the world is the longest Christmas holiday, and why?

Christmas Card Writing Ideas

Christmas cards are an important part of the vacation season. Whether you’re sending a card to a friend or family member, it’s a great way to stay in touch and ensure they know you’re thinking of them.

You can write whatever you want in your Christmas card, but there are a few things that people will always appreciate. Here are 15 examples of phrases for your Christmas wishes:

• Merry Christmas! I hope you’re ready for a wonderful vacation season!
• It’s hard to believe that Christmas is already upon us! We can’t wait to see our friends and family this year.
• Happy holidays from our family to yours! We hope you have a wonderful time with your loved ones this year!
• We wish you all the best this vacation season! May your heart always be filled with love and peace!
• We wish you a wonderful vacation season! We look forward to seeing you again soon!
• We wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas full of love and happiness this year!
• Merry Christmas to you and yours! We hope your holidays this year are full of love, laughter, and joy – just like whenever we’re together!
• We wish you nothing but the best this vacation season! May your heart always be filled with love and peace!
• We also wish you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season on behalf of our family!
• I’m so thankful for our friendship, and I hope you know how much that means to me.
• Merry Christmas to you and your family! We hope your holidays this year are full of love, laughter, and joy – as always when we’re together!
• I hope your holiday season is full of joy, love, and happiness!
• This year has been amazing. Thank you so much for being in my life!
• Thanks again for everything this year. Have a great vacation season!
• May you get everything on your list this year!

Related Topics

30 Creative Christmas Drawing Prompts to Inspire Your Holiday Art

30-Day Writing Challenge: Push Your Creativity to the Max With These January Writing Prompts

Inner Explorations: Top Personal Writing Prompts to Discover Yourself

• Additional Resources
• A List of Writing Contests in 2022 | Exciting Prizes!
• Em Dash vs. En Dash vs. Hyphen: When to Use Which
• Book Proofreading 101: The Beginner’s Guide
• Screenplay Editing: Importance, Cost, & Self-Editing Tips
• Screenplay Proofreading: Importance, Process, & Cost
• Script Proofreading: Rates, Process, & Proofreading Tips
• Manuscript Proofreading | Definition, Process & Standard Rates
• 14 Punctuation Marks: Examples & Free Guide on How to Use
• Tips to Write Better if English Is Your Second Language
• Novel Proofreading | Definition, Significance & Standard Rates
• The Top 10 Literary Devices: Definitions & Examples
• Top 101 Bone-Chilling Horror Writing Prompts
• Top 10 Must-Try Writing Prompt Generators in 2024
• 100+ Creative Writing Prompts for Masterful Storytelling
• Best 101 Greatest Fictional Characters of All Time
• Top 10 eBook Creator Tools in 2024: Free & Paid
• 50 Timeless and Unforgettable Book Covers of All Time
• What Is Flash Fiction? Definition, Examples & Types
• Discover the Best Book Review Sites of 2024: Top 10 Picks

80 Enchanting Christmas Writing Prompts for Your Next Story

Your guide to the best ebook readers in 2024.

• Top 10 Book Review Clubs of 2024 to Share Literary Insights
• 2024’s Top 10 Self-Help Books for Better Living
• Writing Contests 2023: Cash Prizes, Free Entries, & More!
• Top 10 Book Writing Apps of 2024: Free & Paid!
• Top 10 Book Marketing Services of 2024: Features and Costs
• 10 Best Book Publishing Companies in 2024
• What Is a Book Teaser and How to Write It: Tips and Examples
• Audiobook vs. EBook vs. Paperback in 2024: (Pros & Cons)
• Top 10 Book Writing Software, Websites, and Tools in 2024
• How to Get a Literary Agent in 2024: The Complete Guide
• An Easy Guide to the Best Fonts & Font Sizes for Your Book
• Top 10 Book Promotion Services for 2024’s Authors
• Alpha Readers: Where to Find Them and Alpha vs. Beta Readers
• Author Branding 101: How to Build a Powerful Author Brand
• How to Write a Book Report | Steps, Examples & Free Template
• A Guide on How to Write a Book Synopsis: Steps and Examples
• How to Write a Book Review (Meaning, Tips & Examples)
• Book Title Generators: Top 10 Book Name Generators of 2024
• 50 Top Literary Agents in the USA for Authors in 2024
• Building an Author Website: The Ultimate Guide with Examples
• Top 10 Book Printing Services for Authors in 2024
• 10 Best Free Online Grammar Checkers: Features and Ratings
• How to Write a Poem: Step-by-Step Guide to Writing Poetry
• What Is a Poem? Poetry Definition, Elements, & Examples
• 2024’s 10 Best Paraphrasing Tools for All (Free & Paid)
• Top 10 AI Detector Tools in 2024 (Free & Paid)
• Top 10 Book Editing Software in 2024 (Free & Paid)
• What Is an Adverb? Definition, Types, Differences & Examples
• What Are Large Language Models and How They Work: Explained!
• What Is an Adjective? Definition, Usage & Examples
• Top 10 Hardcover Book Printing Services [2024 Update]
• 15 Types of Poems Everyone Should Know About
• 2024’s Top 10 Setting Generators to Create Unique Settings
• Different Types of Characters in Stories That Steal the Show
• Top 10 Screenplay & Scriptwriting Software (Free & Paid)
• 10 Best AI Text Generators of 2024: Pros, Cons, and Prices
• Top 10 Must-Try Character Name Generators in 2024
• How to Track Changes in Google Docs: A 7-Step Guide
• 10 Best AI Text Summarizers in 2024 (Free & Paid)
• 2024’s 10 Best Punctuation Checkers for Error-Free Text
• Top 10 AI Humanizers of 2024 [Free & Paid Tools]
• Top 10 AI Rewriters for Perfect Text in 2024 (Free & Paid)
• 10 Best Plot Generators for Powerful Storytelling in 2024
• 11 Best Story Structures for Writers (+ Examples!)
• Writing Contests 2024: Cash Prizes & Free Entries!
• Pre-Publishing Steps
• Book Cover Design: An Introduction
• What is a Book Copyright Page?
• 8 Pre-Publishing Steps to Self-Publish Your Book
• 7 Essential Elements of a Book Cover Design
• How to Copyright Your Book in the US, UK, & India
• How to Format a Book in 2024: 7 Tips for Print & EBooks
• Beta Readers: Why You Should Know About Them in 2024
• How to Publish a Book in 2024: A Beginners’ Guide
• ISBN Guide 2024: What Is an ISBN and How to Get an ISBN
• Self Publishing Guide
• How to Hire a Book Editor in 5 Practical Steps
• Self-Publishing Options for Writers
• How to Promote Your Book Using a Goodreads Author Page
• What Makes Typesetting a Pre-Publishing Essential for Every Author?
• 4 Online Publishing Platforms To Boost Your Readership
• How to Find the Perfect Book Editor for Your Manuscript
• Typesetting: An Introduction
• Quick Guide to Novel Editing (with a Self-Editing Checklist)
• Quick Guide to Book Editing [Complete Process & Standard Rates]
• 10 Best Self-Publishing Companies of 2024: Price & Royalties
• What Is Amazon Self-Publishing? Pros, Cons & Key Insights
• Manuscript Editing in 2024: Elevating Your Writing for Success
• Self-Publishing vs. Traditional Publishing: 2024 Guide
• How to Publish a Book on Amazon: 8 Easy Steps [2024 Update]
• 10 Best Book Cover Design Services of 2024: Price & Ratings
• A Beginner’s Guide to Self-Publishing a Book in 2024
• Learn How Much Does It Cost to Self-Publish a Book in 2024
• What are Print-on-Demand Books? Cost and Process in 2024
• What Are the Standard Book Sizes for Publishing Your Book?
• Top 10 EBook Conversion Services for 2024’s Authors
• How to Copyright a Book in 2024 (Costs + Free Template)
• How to Market Your Book on Amazon to Maximize Sales in 2024
• Traditional Publishing
• How to start your own online publishing company?
• 8 Tips To Write Appealing Query Letters
• How to Write a Query Letter (Examples + Free Template)

Writing Tips

• How to Create Depth in Characters
• Starting Your Book With a Bang: Ways to Catch Readers’ Attention
• How to Write a Powerful Plot in 12 Steps
• Research for Fiction Writers: A Complete Guide
• Short stories: Do’s and don’ts
• How to Write Dialogue: 7 Rules, 5 Tips & 65 Examples
• How to Write a Novel in Past Tense? 3 Steps & Examples
• What Are Foil and Stock Characters? Easy Examples from Harry Potter
• How To Write Better Letters In Your Novel
• On Being Tense About Tense: What Verb Tense To Write Your Novel In
• How To Create A Stellar Plot Outline
• How to Punctuate Dialogue in Fiction
• On Being Tense about Tense: Present Tense Narratives in Novels
• The Essential Guide to Worldbuilding [from Book Editors]
• What Is Point of View: 1st, 2nd & 3rd POV with Examples
• How to Create Powerful Conflict in Your Story | Useful Examples
• How to Write a Book: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Write a Short Story: 6 Steps & Examples
• How To Craft a Murder Mystery Story
• How to Write a Novel: 8 Steps to Help You Start Writing
• What Is a Stock Character? 150 Examples from 5 Genres
• How to Write a Children’s Book: An Easy Step-by-Step Guide
• Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey: Worksheet & Examples
• Novel Outline: A Proven Blueprint [+ Free Template!]
• Character Development: 7-Step Guide for Writers
• Foil Character: Definition, History, & Examples
• What Is NaNoWriMo? Top 7 Tips to Ace the Writing Marathon
• What Is the Setting of a Story? Meaning + 7 Expert Tips
• Theme of a Story | Meaning, Common Themes & Examples
• 5 Elements of a Short Story & 6 Stages of a Plot
• What Is a Blurb? Meaning, Examples & 10 Expert Tips
• What Is Show, Don’t Tell? (Meaning, Examples & 6 Tips)
• How to Write a Book Summary: Example, Tips, & Bonus Section
• How to Write a Book Description (Examples + Free Template)
• 10 Best Free AI Resume Builders to Create the Perfect CV
• A Complete Guide on How to Use ChatGPT to Write a Resume
• 10 Best AI Writer Tools Every Writer Should Know About
• 15 Best ATS-Friendly ChatGPT Prompts for Resumes in 2024
• How to Write a Book Title (15 Expert Tips + Examples)
• The 10 Best AI Story Generators: Features, Usage & Benefits
• 100 Novel and Book Ideas to Start Your Book Writing Journey
• Exploring Writing Styles: Meaning, Types, and Examples
• Mastering Professional Email Writing: Steps, Tips & Examples
• How to Write a Screenplay: Expert Tips, Steps, and Examples
• Business Proposal Guide: How to Write, Examples and Template
• Different Types of Resumes: Explained with Tips and Examples
• How to Create a Memorable Protagonist (7 Expert Tips)
• How to Write an Antagonist (Examples & 7 Expert Tips)

Writing for the Web: 7 Expert Tips for Web Content Writing

• What are the Parts of a Sentence? An Easy-to-Learn Guide
• How to Avoid AI Detection in 2024 (6 Proven Techniques!)
• How to Avoid Plagiarism in 2024 (10 Effective Strategies!)
• 10 Best Spell Checkers of 2024: Features, Accuracy & Ranking
• What Is Climax Of A Story & How To Craft A Gripping Climax
• What Is a Subject of a Sentence? Meaning, Examples & Types
• Object of a Sentence: Your Comprehensive Guide
• First-person Point of View: What Is It and Examples
• Second-person Point of View: What Is It and Examples

Still have questions? Leave a comment

Add Comment

Checklist: Dissertation Proposal

Enter your email id to get the downloadable right in your inbox!

Examples: Edited Papers

Need editing and proofreading services.

• Tags: Fiction , Fiction Writing , Language

Celebrate this festive season with 80 phenomenal Christmas writing prompts! Whether you wish to write about love, family, magic, hope, or dreams, we’ve got the perfect prompt for you. We’ve included a unique mix of funny, thought-provoking, and serious prompts to stimulate your imagination. 

These December writing prompts will shake off writer’s block and make you eager to pen your story. We’ve also added a special section of Christmas writing prompts for kids. So without wasting time, let’s browse through these prompts! 

Take your holiday story to the next level! Learn more

Christmas writing prompts for adults 

1) Write about how a refugee staying in Paris finds the Christmas spirit. 

2) A flight is forced to land in Vietnam during Christmas. An old man is determined to spread Christmas cheer and make the passengers happy. What does he do? 

3) A girl who works at a Christmas store is unfairly removed from her job. Describe how she finds her Christmas spirit. 

4) What unique tradition would you like to create for your family on Christmas? Explain in detail. 

5) Describe how the arrival of a guest at Christmas changed your life. 

6) A kid performs a random act of kindness on Christmas which creates a huge impact. 

7) A woman traveling by train at Christmas meets a childhood friend who tells her a shocking secret. 

8) Write a letter to your best friend on Christmas, telling how much he/she means to you. 

9) A nurse working in the hospital on Christmas gets a big surprise. 

10) A scientist receives an anonymous gift from an admirer on Christmas and an invitation to meet. 

11) A 12-year-old child finds an elf hidden in his garden. The elf takes the boy to the North Pole and they have an exciting adventure. 

12) Write a poem about a romantic Christmas you spent with your partner. 

13) Describe a memorable Christmas dance at a party and why was it special. 

14) Write about a surprising miracle that happened on Christmas day. 

15) Recount a Christmas movie you watched that changed your life. 

16) Write about a unique experience where people from different cultures celebrate Christmas together. 

17) Relate a memorable experience where someone fulfilled a promise they made on Christmas. 

18) Imagine how Christmas would take place in 2034 and pen your thoughts about how technology could change Christmas. 

19) Recount a Christmas when you were alone, away from family. What did you do to make your Christmas special? 

If you want to develop a habit of writing consistently in a journal, we are here to help! Here are some effective holiday writing prompts for your next journal entry: 

Christmas journal prompts 

20) Reflect on an important lesson Christmas has taught you about life and write about it. 

21) Write about your dream Christmas vacation. 

22) Recount a special Christmas gift you received and why was it memorable for you. 

23) Name your favorite Christmas movie and describe why you love the movie. 

24) Describe a wonderful Christmas-themed project/artwork you worked on. 

25) Write about the music and songs you like to hear at Christmas. 

26) Narrate an experience where you received a strange gift at the Secret Santa gift exchange. 

27) Describe your favorite Christmas food, why is it special, and the best memories related to the food. 

28) Write about how you celebrated Christmas with your pet. 

29) Narrate your experience about a memorable office Christmas party you went to and what happened. 

For writers who want more December writing prompts, we’ve included a special section. Discover exciting Christmas story writing prompts about mystery, adventure, family, and more! 

Christmas story prompts 

30) Pen a story about how a prince and princess trapped escape from the clutches of a witch on Christmas. Narrate what they do to return to their native land. 

31) Compose a story about how a stranger convinces a family to celebrate Christmas. The family has not celebrated Christmas for five years. 

32) An elf has to rub fly paint on Santa’s reindeer to make them fly. He drops the fly paint and the fly paint falls on the floor. Now the reindeer cannot fly. What happens next? 

33) You open the door of a shed that is unused for years on Christmas. The shed leads to a magical world where all toys can talk. 

34) Craft a story about a songwriter who writes a modern-day Christmas Carol, reminding people of the true meaning of Christmas. 

35) Narrate a story about a girl who visits her ancestral home in Scotland at Christmas and finds true love. 

36) Tell the tale of how a teenager finds a mysterious map of a hidden treasure on Christmas. 

37) A 15-year-old boy discovers a land of magical Christmas ornaments and gifts. He then gets trapped in the land. What does he do? 

38) Write a story about how a swimmer saves an injured dolphin on Christmas. 

39) An artist takes a solo trip to Venice for Christmas and rediscovers her lost creativity. 

40) A chef participates in a cooking competition at Christmas. He must create an unconventional cake using modern cooking techniques. 

41) A group of elderly people decides to organize a charity event at Christmas to save an orphanage from closing. Will they succeed? 

42) A vet volunteers at an animal shelter on Christmas Eve and falls in love with another volunteer. 

43) A witch disguises herself and visits Earth to celebrate Christmas and gatecrashes a party. What happens next? 

44) An old teacher wishes he was younger by throwing a coin in a magical fountain before Christmas. He wakes up on Christmas day and realizes that he is 20 years old once again. 

45) Write a story about how a soldier defending his country’s border celebrates Christmas. 

46) Narrate how a standup comedian who received bad publicity makes an amazing comeback on Christmas Eve. 

47) Describe how a girl takes one step closer to her dream of performing in the Olympics on Christmas day. 

48) A boy runs away from his foster parents, galloping on his horse Starlight on Christmas Eve. 

49) Pen a story about a grandfather who reconnects with his grandson on Christmas day and fulfills exciting wishes on his bucket list. 

Christmas writing prompts for kids 

50) Imagine that you created a snowman on Christmas that suddenly became powerful. What powers did the snowman have? How did the snowman use those powers? 

51) Write a story about how a talking baby rabbit finds a home on Christmas and a loving friend. 

52) Write a poem on what you love about Christmas. 

53) You discover a monkey in your shed on Christmas and decide to take care of it. Explain what happens later. 

54) Imagine you are a Santa helper who is given the task of packing all gifts for Christmas. You realize that there are fewer gifts for children. What do you do? 

55) Describe the most special gift you gave someone for Christmas. 

56) Imagine you are given Santa’s sleigh and reindeer. Where would you go? What would you do? 

57) Write a dialogue between Santa and his helper about a special surprise to make Christmas more special. 

58) Write a story about how Tom (the cat) and Jerry (the mouse) spent Christmas. 

59) You want to host a party at Christmas. What games will you play? What food would you order? How would you decorate the house? Write all the details. 

60) You find a blue wishing feather on Christmas and realize that it makes your wishes come true. What do you wish for? 

61) You realize that a teddy bear you received on Christmas can talk and do magic.

62) You find a package in the snow on Christmas and unwrap it. You see a beautiful and expensive toy train. What do you do? 

63) Someone has locked you in a room full of Christmas gifts by mistake. 

64) You get the chance to decorate a Christmas tree. How will you decorate the tree? Explain in detail. 

65) Imagine you met Santa Clause when he was secretly keeping your gift. What would you ask him? 

66) You get a chance to meet your favorite cartoon character at Christmas. Describe how you spent the whole day with the cartoon character. 

67) You find a homeless man on Christmas who looks hungry. What do you do? 

68) Express how you spent a day playing with your friends in the snow during the Christmas holidays. 

69) An uncle gifts you a pet parrot as a gift on Christmas. The parrot is intelligent and can talk. Describe how what the parrot said made everybody laugh. 

Now let us see some fun Christmas creative writing prompts! These writing prompts for December include ideas related to fantasy, horror, childhood, snow, and, more. 

Fun Christmas writing prompts 

70) Write a story about a group of puppets coming to life on Christmas Eve. 

71) Describe how fairies and elves celebrate Christmas together in Fairyland. 

72) A tourist visits a haunted house on Christmas and discovers a ghost. 

73) On Christmas Eve, A wizard gifts a boy a magical table that produces whatever food you ask it to. 

74) Compose a poem about your favorite childhood memory of Christmas. 

75) A clumsy and amateur wizard becomes a hero and saves everyone on Christmas. 

76) A girl discovers the true identity of a spy on Christmas. The spy must do everything to prevent the girl from revealing her identity. 

77) An angel visits an old man staying alone at home and makes his Christmas memorable. 

78) Write a story about a unique snowman-making competition where the person who makes the best snowman gets a special prize. 

79) A woman discovers exquisite handmade Christmas gifts in her attic. She realizes that every gift is worth thousands of dollars. What does she do? 

80) A cynical journalist visits North Carolina to write an exciting story about a famous legend. He finds his lost Christmas spirit and discovers a shocking truth. 

We hope these holiday writing prompts for Christmas help you craft the perfect story. After you’re done with writing, the next step is editing. As experts in editing and proofreading services , we’d love to help you perfect your story!

Here are some other articles you might find useful: 

• How to Write Unforgettable Antagonists
• Foil Character: Definition, History, & Examples
• What is the Setting of a Story? Meaning + 7 Expert Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

What are christmas writing prompts, how to make my christmas writing more engaging, how to use christmas writing prompts.

Found this article helpful?

Leave a Comment: Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Your vs. You’re: When to Use Your and You’re

Your organization needs a technical editor: here’s why.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Get carefully curated resources about writing, editing, and publishing in the comfort of your inbox.

How to Copyright Your Book?

If you’ve thought about copyrighting your book, you’re on the right path.

© 2024 All rights reserved

• Terms of service
• Privacy policy
• Fiction Writing Tips
• Dissertation Writing Guide
• Essay Writing Guide
• Academic Writing and Publishing
• Citation and Referencing
• Partner with us
• Annual report
• Website content
• Marketing material
• Job Applicant
• Cover letter
• Resource Center
• Case studies

10 Perfect Writing Prompts For Christmas

It does not matter if you love or loathe the Christmas holidays. Either way, they present wonderful opportunities for writers. We’ve included 10 perfect prompts for Christmas to kick-start your writing.

Think about it. There is so much to use as fodder for a book, including family angst, holiday traditions, and religious rituals. The heightened emotions of the season are perfect for exploring emotions like happiness , anger , loss, love , and jealousy.

Eavesdropping is recommended. And it is a feast for the senses . Writing about the food and the seasons is a gift for storytellers.

Here are 10 Christmas-themed prompts to get you started:

• Write a story about an outsider who spends Christmas with your family. Describe it through their eyes.
• Write about an annoying Christmas tradition that your family will not abandon. Why is it so important to them?
• Describe a Christmas ritual from the viewpoint of a child. Examples: wrapping gifts, carving the turkey, decorating the tree.
• Write about a character who is spending their first Christmas without a spouse or lover.
• Write about your favourite Christmas foods.
• Write about spending Christmas in a different hemisphere. Imagine how different your rituals would be if you celebrated in summer or winter. Think about the colours , smells , tastes , and sounds .
• Write about Christmas Past, Present, and Future.
• Write about Christmas Eve from the viewpoint of a pet.
• Write about a character who is carefully following a family recipe for a Christmas dish.
• Write a letter to Father Christmas.

Happy Holidays and Happy Writing!

Create a writing habit with: Hooked On Writing: 31 Days To A Writing Habit

If you enjoyed this article ,  you will love:

• Cornelia Funke’s Top 10 Tips For Writing Ghost Stories
• Practical Hacks For Planning Your Blogging Calendar
• 17 Ways To Think Like A Writer Every Day

Top Tip : Find out more about our  workbooks  and  online courses  in our  shop .

• Writing Inspiration , Writing Tips from Amanda Patterson

© Writers Write 2022

5 Christmas Writing Prompts to Tickle Your Holiday Spirit

by Abigail Perry | 0 comments

Start Your Story TODAY! We’re teaching a new LIVE workshop this week to help you start your next book. Learn more and sign up here.

It's Christmas Eve! The Write Practice will be taking a brief break from the blog for the next week, but in the meantime we'd love to inspire your writing this holiday season with some Christmas writing prompts.

Maybe you're looking for some creative writing activities for the last day of school before winter break. Or you're craving a handful of creative writing prompts that will also get you into the festive mood. Either way, these holiday-themed writing prompts are for you!

Write alone, or grab lots of people in your writing community. Pick a writing prompt for this article. When you're chosen a favorite, take on a fifteen minute writing sprint .

It never hurts to get some special writing practice in before your holiday celebrations.

5 Christmas Writing Prompts for Your Holiday Season

1. Reach out to a family member and ask them what their favorite holiday story is. Now take that story and change the setting to something different. Play the “What if?” game to come up with some really creative and fun ideas. To get you started:

• What if instead of eating dinner with grandparents, they were in the Alps with the Abominable Snowman?
• What if a holiday tradition of going sledding led to the discovery of a secret portal?
• What if a story set in the 2000s took place in the 1700s instead?

2. Pick a holiday card from the stack of cards sent to you this year. Write about a list of inconveniences that interrupted the people as they attempted to take the photo and how they finally took the picture.

3. Write a fictional story about a forest animal who finds Santa and his reindeer stuck in the woods with a broken sleigh.

4. A grumpy parent is dragged along with their family to pick out a holiday tree when a chain of unexpected events teaches them what the holidays are really about.

5. A class of elementary students who generally don't get along well gets to choose one charity to visit before the holidays. Which do they pick, and what happens to them that inspires a greater sense of compassion and community?

Be Merry, and Write

You're up! Which of these holiday-focused writing prompts stood out to you? Head over to the Practice section for your fun holiday writing challenge.

P.S. If you're participating in this writing practice in school, don't forget to thank your awesome teachers for all they do—especially for giving you some fun activities that encourage your creative spirit.

Happy Holidays!

Do you have a Christmas writing prompt you'd like to share? Let us know in the comments .

Pick one of the five Christmas writing prompts from today's article. Don't worry about the perfect character description right now. Instead, write as quickly as you can for fifteen minutes .

Watch how the story develops, and don't hold back. Who knows, maybe this writing prompt will turn into a full length novel after the holidays?

When you're done, I'd love to see the beginnings of your idea. Share them in the comments section below. And if you do, don't forget to comment on another writer's  story!

‘Tis the season!

Abigail Perry

Abigail Perry is a Certified Story Grid Editor with professional teaching, literary agency, and film production experience. In addition to writing Story Grid masterwork guides, she works as a freelance editor and is the Content Editor for The Write Practice. Abigail loves stories that put women and diverse groups at the center of the story—and others that include superpowers and magic. Her favorite genres include: Smart Book Club Fiction, Women's Fiction, YA Fantasy, Historical Fiction, and unique memoirs. She also has a B.S. in TV, Radio, and Film and loves working on screenplays that are emotionally driven and/or full of action. You can learn more about Abigail on her website.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Join over 450,000 readers who are saying YES to practice. You’ll also get a free copy of our eBook 14 Prompts :

Popular Resources

Best Resources for Writers Book Writing Tips & Guides Creativity & Inspiration Tips Writing Prompts Grammar & Vocab Resources Best Book Writing Software ProWritingAid Review Writing Teacher Resources Publisher Rocket Review Scrivener Review Gifts for Writers

Books By Our Writers

You've got it! Just us where to send your guide.

Enter your email to get our free 10-step guide to becoming a writer.

You've got it! Just us where to send your book.

Enter your first name and email to get our free book, 14 Prompts.

Want to Get Published?

Enter your email to get our free interactive checklist to writing and publishing a book.

• Inspire your young writers
• Moderate writing online

The Pobble blog

• Teaching and Learning

Christmas writing magic: 7 ready-made prompts to spark creativity

• by: Anna from Pobble
• On: 4, Dec 2023
• Teaching and Learning (98)
• Pobble Power (31)
• Guest blogs (24)
• Printable resources (11)
• Parents (8)
• Competition (4)
• Moderation (4)

'Tis the season for more than just festive decorations and twinkling lights. The anticipation of the holiday season naturally brings a sense of excitement into the classroom. The festive spirit is contagious, making it an ideal time to channel that energy into creative writing. 🌟✏️

As teachers, we know that capturing students' imaginations is key, and Christmas provides the perfect backdrop for inspiring creativity. A golden opportunity to ignite creativity and inspire your young writers.

On Pobble, there's a wealth of festive inspiration. We've gathered seven of our favourite Christmas writing prompts to help you turn the joy of the season into a powerful motivator for learning. These carefully crafted, ready-made prompts are designed to transport your students into a wonderland of imagination. From unexpected arrivals on the doorstep to magical journeys, each prompt is a key to unlocking the full potential of your students' creativity. Each one comes with an incredible image, an inspiring story starter, plus sentence starters, a word bank, questions as well as sentence and punctuation challenges.

Here are seven Christmas writing prompts to spark student creativity:

1. A loud ticking signals the start of the most magical season of the year. Check out 'Countdown', a ready-made writing prompt to help your class kick off the festivities. 🕰✨ Preview this prompt

Need even more writing inspiration in your classroom? Access a free writing prompt every day on Pobble.

Have you discovered Pobble yet?

We help teachers inspire their young writers, foster a love for writing across schools, and reach accurate assessment judgments.  

Think writing, think Pobble!

Helpdesk Teaching & Learning Moderation Webinars Live lessons Literacy through Sport Celebrate writing

What is Pobble? Blog Legal Introduction Terms of Service Privacy policy

Pobble Education Ltd,  Rosehay,  Tremorvah Wood Lane,  Truro, TR1 1PZ,  Cornwall, UK

Get in touch [email protected]

Light Up Your Script with These 40 Christmas Writing Prompts

Get in the spirit: 40 creative christmas writing prompts for screenwriters.

Writing prompts can be a helpful tool for writers of all levels and can serve a variety of purposes. Here are some ways to use writing prompts effectively:

To get started : If you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, a writing prompt can be a great way to get your creative juices flowing and help you get started on a new writing project.

To practice writing : Regular writing practice can help you improve your skills and build confidence. Use writing prompts as a way to challenge yourself and try out new techniques or styles.

To overcome writer’s block : If you’re experiencing writer’s block, a writing prompt can help you break through the mental block and get writing again.

To explore new ideas : Writing prompts can help you think about new and unexpected topics, which can be a great way to spark creativity and generate new ideas.

To have fun : Writing doesn’t always have to be serious! Use writing prompts as a way to have fun and let your imagination run wild.

To get the most out of writing prompts, it’s important to set aside dedicated time to write and to not worry too much about the quality of your work. Just focus on getting words on the page and letting your creativity flow.

So, get into the holiday spirit and spark your creativity with these 40 festive writing prompts for screenwriters. From heartwarming holiday tales to suspenseful yuletide mysteries, these prompts are sure to inspire your next screenplay.

Grab a cup of cocoa, put on some holiday tunes, and let these prompts light up your script!

25 Christmas Story Writing Prompts

• A young woman who is disillusioned with the commercialism of the holiday season rediscover the magic of Christmas when she volunteers at a local soup kitchen.
• A group of friends who are struggling to get into the holiday spirit decide to take a trip to a Christmas-themed town, where they learn the true meaning of the season.
• A family who has fallen on hard times receives a surprise visit from a mysterious stranger who helps them rediscover the joy of Christmas.
• A workaholic businessman who has lost touch with his loved ones learns the true value of family and togetherness during a Christmas Eve blizzard.
• A group of neighbors who have been feuding for years are brought together by a series of holiday mishaps, leading them to reevaluate their relationships and the true spirit of the season.
• A young girl who has never believed in Santa Claus is visited by the man himself on Christmas Eve, leading her on a magical journey through the North Pole.
• A group of estranged siblings who have not spoken in years are forced to spend the holiday season together, leading them to heal old wounds and rekindle their relationships.
• A couple who has been trying to have a baby for years discovers they are pregnant on Christmas Day, leading them on a journey of hope and joy.
• A family who has lost their Christmas spirit due to a recent tragedy are visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future, helping them to heal and find joy again.
• A cynical journalist who is assigned to cover a small town’s holiday festivities is transformed by the kindness and generosity of the community, leading her to rediscover her own holiday spirit.
• A group of coworkers who have always dreaded the office holiday party are surprised when they are transported to a winter wonderland, where they learn the true meaning of togetherness.
• A young boy who is struggling with his faith is visited by a guardian angel on Christmas Eve, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and belief.
• A grumpy old man who has always hated the holidays is visited by his deceased wife, who helps him rediscover the joy and magic of the season.
• A group of friends who have lost touch over the years reunite on Christmas Day, leading them on a journey of forgiveness and renewal.
• A group of strangers who are stranded at an airport on Christmas Eve band together and create their own holiday celebration, leading them to form unexpected friendships and connections.
• A family who has always celebrated Christmas in a traditional way decides to mix things up and try out new holiday traditions, leading them on a journey of self-discovery and growth.
• A young woman who has always hated the holidays finds herself falling in love with a man who is determined to spread holiday cheer to everyone he meets.
• A group of friends who have always had elaborate holiday traditions decide to shake things up and spend Christmas in a different location, leading them on a journey of adventure and self-discovery.
• A group of coworkers who have always dreaded the office holiday party decide to take matters into their own hands and plan a celebration that everyone will love, leading them to form unexpected friendships and connections.
• A young woman who has always been obsessed with Christmas finds herself questioning her love for the holiday when she is tasked with organizing the town’s annual tree lighting ceremony.
• A group of strangers who are stranded at a remote cabin during a blizzard are forced to celebrate Christmas together, leading them to form unexpected friendships and heal old wounds.
• A family who has always struggled with the holidays due to financial constraints decide to make the most of their situation and create their own holiday traditions, leading them to rediscover the joy of the season.
• A young man who has always been a Grinch about the holidays is visited by the ghost of his deceased grandfather, who helps him rediscover the magic and joy of the season.
• A group of friends who have always celebrated Christmas in a traditional way decide to mix things up and spend the holiday volunteering at a soup kitchen, leading them to form unexpected connections and rediscover the true meaning of the season.
• A young woman who has always been a Christmas fanatic finds herself questioning her love for the holiday when she is tasked with organizing the town’s annual tree lighting ceremony, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

5 Christmas Romance Story Writing Prompts

• A young woman who has always been a Grinch about the holidays is visited by the ghost of her deceased grandmother, who helps her rediscover the magic and joy of the season – and fall in love with a handsome holiday cheerleader in the process.
• A group of friends who have always had elaborate holiday traditions decide to shake things up and spend Christmas in a different location, where they each find unexpected romance.
• A cynical journalist who is assigned to cover a small town’s holiday festivities is transformed by the kindness and generosity of the community – and by a charming local who helps her rediscover her own holiday spirit.
• A young woman who has always hated the holidays finds herself falling in love with a man who is determined to spread holiday cheer to everyone he meets – even when she tries her best to resist him.
• A group of coworkers who have always dreaded the office holiday party are surprised when they are transported to a winter wonderland, where they each find unexpected romance amid the twinkling lights and festive cheer.

5 Christmas Horror Story Writing Prompts

• A young couple who have always loved the holiday season find themselves terrorized by a group of demonic elves while staying at a remote cabin in the woods.
• A group of friends who are on a holiday road trip are stalked by a deranged Santa Claus who has a twisted sense of “holiday cheer.”
• A family who has always celebrated Christmas in a traditional way discovers that their holiday traditions have a dark and sinister history, leading them to confront a terrifying past.
• A young woman who is tasked with organizing the town’s annual tree lighting ceremony finds herself haunted by a malevolent spirit that seems to be tied to the event.
• A group of coworkers who have always dreaded the office holiday party find themselves trapped in the building with a serial killer who is dressed in a Santa suit.

5 Christmas Thriller Story Writing Prompts

• A young woman who has always loved the holiday season finds herself drawn into a web of deceit and danger when she discovers that her charming new boyfriend is not who he claims to be.
• A group of friends who are on a holiday road trip are stalked by a mysterious stranger who seems to know their every move.
• A family who has always celebrated Christmas in a traditional way finds themselves in the middle of a dangerous conspiracy when they discover that their holiday traditions are part of a secret society.
• A young man who is struggling with his faith is visited by a guardian angel on Christmas Eve, leading him on a journey of self-discovery – and into the heart of a sinister plot.
• A group of coworkers who have always dreaded the office holiday party find themselves in the midst of a corporate conspiracy when they discover that their boss has been embezzling funds and plans to flee the country on Christmas Eve.

Most Popular Christmas Movies Of All Time

Just for reference, here are the top ten highest grossing Christmas movies of all time (based on worldwide box office totals):

• “The Grinch” (2018) – $543.1 million
• “The Polar Express” (2004) – $309.9 million
• “Elf” (2003) – $220.4 million
• “Home Alone” (1990) – $476.7 million
• “A Christmas Carol” (2009) – $325.3 million
• “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000) – $345.1 million
• “The Santa Clause” (1994) – $189.8 million
• “The Santa Clause 2” (2002) – $172.8 million
• “Fred Claus” (2007) – $97.5 million
• “The Night Before” (2015) – $52.1 million

Note: These figures are not adjusted for inflation and are based on worldwide box office totals.

Christmas movies offer a lucrative opportunity for channels, as they are relatively inexpensive to produce and can be shot in Canada where tax credits make production costs even lower. These films often have budgets under $2 million, yet they attract a large audience and are therefore a win-win economic prospect.

Find Your Next Big Idea with These Screenwriting Prompts and Story Sparks

Here are some more blog posts on screenwriting ideas, writing prompts and more:

• Romance story writing prompts
• Horror story writing prompts
• Christmas story writing prompts
• Fantasy story writing prompts
• Thriller story writing prompts
• Mystery story writing prompts
• How to get ideas for your next movie
• Writing prompts based on plot type and theme

Digital Screenwriting Course

Creating the ultimate protagonist.

Characters are story. Your protagonist is your most important character. In this course you will learn how to create the best of both.

Character, Plot & Theme

About Jay Carver

Jay Carver is a screenwriter, director and producer. Through his production company J-Style Films, he has done work for companies such as Turner Broadcasting. In the past, he has worked with Hollywood actor Omari Hardwick and won several film festivals including "Best Director".

Previous Post How to Write a Mystery: A Guide for Screenwriters

Next post should you copyright or register your screenplay with the wga, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

© 2024 Jay Carver.

• Member Login

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

EveryWriter

A New Community of Writers

50 Christmas Fiction Writing Prompts

November 12, 2023 by Richard 1 Comment

The holidays are an inspiring time for writers. There’s something magical about Christmas that sparks our creativity and imagination. The twinkling lights, festive decorations, scrumptious treats, and spirit of giving all provide the perfect backdrop for heartwarming tales.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of 50 Christmas fiction writing prompts. These story ideas showcase the humor, wonder, family, and even mischief that make the holiday season so special. They range from Santa’s escapades gone wrong to Christmas wishes come true, providing endless inspiration for your next holiday-themed short story or novella.

In this list you’ll find prompts about everything from Advent calendar capers and snowbound neighbors to mistaken Santa deliveries and Christmas costume chaos at the mall. Whether you’re looking for a touching tale to make readers misty-eyed or a comical misadventure to split their sides, you’re bound to find spark for your next Christmas fiction project here.

The only limit is your imagination. You can take these jumping off points in any direction your creativity wants to go. So cozy up with a mug of hot cocoa, put on some Nat King Cole, and let these prompts deck the halls of your imagination this season!

50 Christmas fiction writing prompts

• Santa is arrested after a burglary gone wrong on Christmas Eve. Write about how the presents still get delivered.
• A child mails a letter to Santa asking for an impossible gift – and gets it. But how and at what cost?
• Someone is stealing presents from under Christmas trees around the neighborhood. A group of kids set a trap to catch the Grinch.
• Santa hits his head Christmas Eve and wakes up with amnesia on Christmas Day. Chaos ensues as he tries to figure out how to deliver presents.
• A family gets snowed in alone at a remote cabin on Christmas Eve. Write about their challenges – and unexpected joy.
• Someone finds a magic wristwatch under the tree that stops time. How do they use or misuse it over the holidays?
• A young elf makes a mistake in the workshop and sets off a chain reaction that could ruin Christmas. How does he fix it?
• Santa takes a new route on December 24 and ends up crash-landing in the wrong place. Where is it and what happens?
• A child receives a doll for Christmas that turns out to be possessed or otherwise sinisterly magical.
• The story of how someone became the first Santa centuries ago when he had to deliver presents using unusual means.
• Trapped in a winter storm on Christmas Eve, five strangers take shelter. Write about how they end up saving Christmas.
• Someone has to dress up as Santa on short notice on Christmas Eve and deliver presents to amuse the kids. Write their funny story.
• Santa comes down with a bad cold on December 24th. Write about how Christmas still comes together despite challenges.
• The North Pole is accidentally put on lockdown by an inept elf trainee just before Christmas Eve, locking Santa out. How does he get back in?
• A bakery sells magical Christmas cookies that temporarily give people different powers/abilities when they eat them. Write a story about the mayhem that ensues.
• Someone finds a magic snowglobe that transports them into a picturesque Christmas setting – but they can’t get back out.
• Santa’s reindeer go on strike on Christmas Eve – what or who will replace them?
• A child stays awake on Christmas Eve to try and sneak a peek at Santa, with unexpected consequences.
• Someone accidentally gets the “Naughty” and “Nice” lists mixed up, and nice kids get coal while naughty ones get gifts! What happens?
• A couple get stranded in a small town due to car trouble on Christmas Eve. Locals take it upon themselves to recreate the perfect Christmas for them.
• Santa and the Grinch swap bodies/lives for a day due to a magical spell. Write about the hilarious chaos that results.
• Someone has to deliver a pregnant woman’s baby alone on a snowy Christmas Eve when they get stranded.
• A funny story about someone trying to re-create an exact replica of a favorite childhood Christmas down to the smallest detail.
• A family adopts a troubled child before Christmas who has never experienced the magic of the holiday before.
• A family gets mistakenly double booked at two different vacation rentals for Christmas – write about their exploits trying to pull off celebrating at both.
• A grumpy introvert is forced to wear an embarrassing costume and play Santa at a big public event on Christmas Eve.
• Santa interviews potential reindeer for the team and is impressed by an unusual candidate.
• A curmudgeonly character experiences events that rekindle their Christmas spirit despite their best efforts to avoid the holiday.
• Someone takes a new mall Santa under their wing and trains them in proper Santa etiquette before Christmas Eve.
• A harried elf must take the reins planning the perfect North Pole Christmas gala when Santa comes down sick with a cold.
• A famous mall Santa arrives on Christmas Eve to find all the rental costumes have been mixed up thanks to a new trainee.
• A family’s Christmas tree ornaments get accidentally shattered. Write about their mad scramble to replace them on Christmas morning.
• A story about how Santa met Mrs. Claus.
• Santa arrives at the wrong house on Christmas Eve and has to delicately extricate himself without disappointing the starstruck kids inside.
• Someone stays up all night trying to prepare Christmas dinner by themselves to surprise their family. Mishaps ensue.
• Write a story about an elf’s first time out delivering presents on their own when Santa can’t make it.
• Santa loses his magical sack of presents right before Christmas Eve – where in the world could it be?
• Two quarreling neighbors compete to put up the biggest, brightest Christmas display to outdo each other. Chaos and hilarity results.
• Someone gets caught using a “naughty” gift from Santa for personal gain and has to make amends before Christmas morning.
• Mrs. Claus gets amnesia right before Christmas Eve and thinks she’s a normal suburban housewife.
• Santa accidentally takes the wrong sack and delivers presents that make no sense to the children on Christmas morning!
• A Christmas tree farmer retires but first must find the perfect family to gift their last tree to on Christmas Eve.
• Someone tries to capture the perfect Santa photo on Christmas Eve with comically disastrous results.
• A snowstorm during the holidays brings out the best in people who help neighbors/strangers.
• Write about the night Santa decided to make Christmas Eve deliveries worldwide in one night.
• A funny misadventure about someone trying to learn to become as adept as Santa at climbing down chimneys.
• The North Pole loses power on Christmas Eve – how do Santa and the elves save the holiday?
• A spoiled child tries to bribe Santa for the most extravagant gifts, but receives a meaningful lesson instead.
• Santa loses the key to a family’s house on Christmas Eve and ingeniously figures out a way inside to deliver the gifts.
• A story about Santa’s own favorite Christmas memory growing up at the North Pole as a child.

We hope you enjoyed these 50 Christmas fiction writing prompts. We hope they inspired you to come up with a story full of cheer. If you were so inspired, and you want to share that story, please put it in the comments or send it to us. Also, we have many other writing prompts on our site , you may enjoy them. Also, if you’re wondering how much time you have until Christmas, check the official countdown . 

Related Posts:

About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.  

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry.   Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

Reader Interactions

Angelyn Gumbs says

December 11, 2023 at 8:16 am

A nightmare trapped here in this old cabin ,and the snow isn’t stopping anytime soon. And it’s Christmas Eve.! We just want to be home with our families God. Five strangers with a barrier. Until a Christmas miracle happen . We went to bed strangers and woken up as a family.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

105+ Christmas Story Ideas (+ Generator) 🎄

Looking for some Christmas story ideas to get those creative juices flowing? Well, you’ve come to the right place! With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to cosy up with some hot cocoa and start writing a festive tale. In this post, you’ll find 105 Christmas story ideas ranging from humorous mishaps to heartwarming tales of holiday magic.

Whether you’re an aspiring author or a student looking for some festive writing inspiration , these Christmas story ideas have got you covered. From entertaining catastrophes like the Christmas Cookie Catastrophe to mysterious adventures like the Case of the Missing Presents, there are so many directions you can take your Christmas story . So grab a notebook and pen, put on some holiday music, and get ready to bring these Christmas story ideas to life!

Christmas Story Idea Generator

Christmas is brimming with storytelling potential. Use the festive idea generator below to spark a delightful, hilarious or heartwarming holiday tale:

Keep on reading for our complete list of festive Christmas story ideas and prompts.

Christmas Story Ideas

When inspiration strikes, nothing brings more joy than sitting down to write a Christmas tale. Browse the list below for over 105 Christmas story ideas spanning friendly Christmas competitions, disastrous mishaps, heartwarming magic, and beyond to spark your imagination.

• The Magic of Christmas: A young girl doesn’t believe in Santa anymore. On Christmas Eve, she hears a noise on the roof and discovers it’s Santa stuck in the chimney. She helps him out and realizes the magic of Christmas is real after all.
• The Perfect Gift: A boy wants to get his parents the perfect gift but doesn’t have much money. After unsuccessfully trying to make gifts, he realizes the best gift is something from the heart, like a poem saying how much he loves them.
• Christmas Cookie Catastrophe: Children try to bake Christmas cookies while their parents are out. Chaos and hilarity ensue as they make a huge mess of the kitchen.
• The Case of the Missing Presents: Presents start disappearing from under the Christmas tree days before Christmas. Siblings try to solve the mystery of the missing gifts.
• Christmas Carol Karaoke: Friends hold a Christmas karaoke party singing their favourite Christmas carols together. One shy friend finds the courage to sing solo for the first time.
• The Christmas Play Surprise: A young girl lands the lead role of the angel in the school Christmas play. She practices singing her solo but loses her voice on the big night, resulting in comedic chaos on stage.
• Holiday Helper: A child volunteer’s time on Christmas Eve to help distribute gifts and meals to those in need, learning the value of giving back.
• The Stray Reindeer: Children find a lost reindeer who followed Santa to their town. They work to reunite it with Santa before Christmas morning.
• The Snow Globe: A snow globe with a miniature Christmas village inside is passed down to a child from their grandparent. Looking at it helps keep the Christmas spirit alive.
• Christmas Around the World: Twins learn how Christmas is celebrated in different countries and cultures around the world. They share these traditions with their own family.
• Mistletoe Mishap: A girl tries to arrange for her crush to meet under the mistletoe but accidentally gets stuck there herself with the class bully. 
• The Christmas Concert Catastrophe: A boy practises endlessly for his Christmas concert solo but ends up with laryngitis on the big day. 
• Saved by the Nutcracker: A young ballerina feels she’s not good enough for the lead role in The Nutcracker until the Christmas Eve performance proves her wrong.
• The New Neighbour’s Christmas: New neighbours seem sad at Christmas so some kids include them in their family traditions to cheer them up.
• Christmas in Hospital: To lift the spirits of sick children, hospital staff and families secretly decorate the wards while the kids sleep on Christmas Eve. 
• Turkey Trouble: Chaos ensues when two families realise they ordered the same turkey and scramble to find a solution before Christmas dinner is ruined.
• Snow Day Surprise: School is cancelled on the last day before Christmas break due to a surprise snowstorm, allowing friends to play in the snow.
• Christmas Wish Gone Wrong: A girl wishes to become an elf. She wakes up Christmas morning with pointy ears in Santa’s workshop and has to quickly learn how to be an elf!
• Christmas Camping Calamity: On a Christmas camping trip, everything that can go wrong does. The family still bonds and embraces the holiday fun.
• Secret Santa Surprise: Classmates draw names for Secret Santa gift-giving. One boy ends up picking his crush and stresses about finding the perfect gift.
• Christmas Cookie Competition : Rival siblings or neighbours hold a Christmas cookie bake-off with the winner taking home a special prize.
• Yule Log Trouble: A family honours their tradition of lighting the Yule log on Christmas but nothing goes to plan and hilarity ensues. 
• Carolling Mishap: Some enthusiastic but not exactly tuneful children form a neighbourhood carol-singing group with amusing results.
• Treehouse Treasure: Kids secretly build a Christmas treehouse where they stash homemade ornaments and treats to exchange on the big day away from their parents’ prying eyes.
• Santa’s Stuck: Santa gets his boot and belly stuck in a chimney. The kids he’s delivering presents to have to figure out how to get him loose. 
• Snow Fort Sleepover: Friends have a secret sleepover in the giant snow fort they built, excited for Christmas morning.
• Finding the Perfect Tree: A family or group of friends go through hilarious troubles trying to find the perfect Christmas tree for the season.
• Assembly Disaster: The school Christmas assembly goes awry thanks to props malfunctioning, forgotten lines, and more.
• 12 Days of Christmas Chaos: In the 12 days leading up to Christmas, kids try to pull off daily good deeds and Christmas planning, but silly troubles get in their way.
• Snowed In on Christmas Eve: An unexpected blizzard leaves a family snowed in at a relative’s house on Christmas Eve. They make the best of it.
• The Gingerbread House: Kids build an elaborate gingerbread house and guard it from neighbourhood children who want to eat it before Christmas. 
• Santa’s Helper for a Day: A child wins a contest to be one of Santa’s helpers for the day but it doesn’t go as smoothly as they expected.
• Christmas Lights Competition: Neighbours compete to have the most festive and elaborate holiday light display. One family employs the kids’ help in beating the others. 
• The Empty Stocking: On Christmas morning, one child finds their stocking is empty and tries to solve why Santa didn’t come.
• Tree Trimming Troubles: Decorating the Christmas tree becomes a hilarious, trouble-prone affair with tangled lights, broken ornaments, and a naughty kitten.
• Operation Secret Santa: Siblings try to secretly find or make gifts for their parents without the other knowing until Christmas morning.
• Snowball Fight: The neighbourhood kids stage an epic snowball fight the day after Christmas with forts, teams, snow ‘grenades’, and more. 
• Santa’s Elf Training School: An ordinary boy mistakenly arrives at Santa’s North Pole training camp for elves and has to complete courses to graduate on Christmas Eve.
• The Christmas Star: Siblings staying with their grandmother at Christmas Eve learn about the Nativity story while tracking a dazzling star through the telescope. 
• Christmas Parade Adventures: Excited to attend their town’s famous Christmas parade, siblings wander off and get lost in the crowd, trying to find their way back.
• Holiday Bakers: Friends hold a holiday bake sale to raise money for charity, facing funny mishaps and challenges along the way.
• Santa’s Switcheroo: Santa mixes up two kids’ presents, delivering them to the wrong houses. The kids try to switch them back on Christmas morning secretly.
• Christmas with the Cranks: Getting stuck spending Christmas with eccentric relatives always leads to chaos, surprises, and laughter.
• Twelve Pups Nipping: To get on Santa’s ‘nice’ list, a boy volunteers at an animal shelter caring for a litter of rambunctious Christmas puppies. 
• Oh Christmas Tree: No matter what they try, a struggling family can’t seem to find and keep a decent Christmas tree up through the holiday.
• White Christmas Gone Wrong: Kids spray artificial snow around their house on Christmas morning but end up causing a huge slippery mess.
• Santa’s Helpers: Children left home alone around Christmas unknowingly help a burglar dressed as Santa, thinking he’s the real deal. 
• Treehouse Treasures: While exploring a neighbour’s abandoned treehouse, siblings find a box of old Christmas decorations and gifts to give their family.
• The Christmas Show Must Go On: A young performer determined to save the struggling holiday pageant must first rally her bickering castmates. 
• 12 Mishaps of Christmas: In a parody of the 12 Days of Christmas, all the things that could go wrong around the holidays do for one chaotic family.
• The Tiny Reindeer: A child finds an injured baby reindeer and secretly takes care of it before guiding it back to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
• Holiday Pranksters: Sibling rivalry leads to an escalating prank war in the days leading up to Christmas.
• Secret Santa Mix-up: A girl gets her crush for Secret Santa and wants to impress him with the perfect gift, but accidentally gives it to the wrong person.
• Snowglobe Wishes: A magic snowglobe grants a sceptical little girl three Christmas wishes, giving her the holiday cheer she was missing.
• The Nutcracker Curse: A girl is cast as the lead in The Nutcracker but believes she’s cursed with bad luck before performances.
• Trapped in a Snow Bank: Children get trapped inside a giant snowbank after it snows and have to find a creative way out before Christmas morning.
• Holiday Cookie Caper: Neighborhood kids compete to see who can sell the most holiday cookies, using funny sales tactics.
• Jingle Bell Jinx: A superstitious boy believes he’s put the whole town under a jinx that will ruin Christmas with his mishaps.
• Secret Santa in Disguise: A Secret Santa dresses up in increasingly silly costumes to covertly give gifts and cheer up classmates.
• Talking Turtle Doves: Two doves escape a holiday petting zoo and a little girl discovers they can talk, leading to various hijinks.
• Tree Trimming Tournament: Competitive Christmas tree trimming turns into a neighbourhood contest judged on creativity and holiday cheer.
• Santa Paws: A family’s new puppy keeps eating the holiday treats left out for Santa on Christmas Eve.
• Snow Day Follies: When a snow day cancels exams, students have to remind themselves that school’s purpose isn’t just tests, but friendship.
• The Gift of Giving: Feeling jealous of a wealthy classmate, a girl learns the value of giving back by volunteering at a homeless shelter.
• Blizzard on Christmas Eve: There’s only one last-minute shopper in a store when a blizzard hits, forcing staff and customers to take shelter and bond.
• The Naughty List: Certain he’s on the naughty list, a boy tries to shift blame for his bad behaviour onto his sister.
• A Recipe for Disaster: Kids try to bake a cake for Santa but face over-the-top chaos and destruction in the kitchen.
• Too Many Presents: Buried under an avalanche of gifts, a girl comes to understand quality time with family is the greatest gift of all.
• Yes, Santa!: A curious girl captures Santa’s sleigh on video, forcing an overwhelmed Santa to answer endless questions.
• Frozen Hot Chocolate: Trapped inside by a blizzard, siblings warm up with peppermint hot chocolate and stories by the fire.
• The Christmas Ghost: A sceptical boy starts seeing the ghost of a young Victorian-era girl around Christmas time.
• Holiday Hat Heist: Someone is stealing all the Santa hats in town days before Christmas. Some enterprising kids try to crack the case.
• Tree Troubles: A family struggles to get their huge Christmas tree inside the house without damaging anything.
• Snowball Fight Tournament: The neighbourhood kids stage an elaborate snowball fight tournament complete with brackets, rules, referees and prizes.
• Secret Santa Switcharoo: Identical gifts appear under the tree leading the family to believe the Secret Santas coordinated accidentally.
• Santa’s Cookies: Santa writes a grateful thank you note to a little girl for the delicious cookies, inspiring her baking passion.
• Stuck on Christmas: A car radio gets stuck on a Christmas carol soundtrack which drives a girl crazy until she learns to embrace the cheer.
• Christmas Candy Catastrophe: Left in charge of dessert for Christmas dinner, kids bake so many sweets they make themselves sick.
• Christmas Lights Mystery: A mischievous goat keeps eating strands of lights, forcing the family to get creative with high-up and pet-proof decor.
• ‘Twas the Fight Before Christmas: Sibling holiday pageant leads bleed to constant bickering threatening the show’s production.
• The Perfectly Imperfect Christmas: Determined to have a picture-perfect Christmas, siblings learn to accept imperfections.
• Hot Chocolate Mustache: Little siblings with hot cocoa moustaches pretend to be Santa, delivering gifts to cheer up neighbours.
• Trapped by Tinsel: A kitten gets tangled in tinsel, knocking over the Christmas tree and forcing the rescue of ornaments.
• Too Many Gingerbread Houses: Classmates all build replications of their homes with gingerbread leading to a very full classroom.
• Secret Holiday Admirer: Cheery but anonymous holiday gifts start appearing in mailboxes throughout the neighbourhood.
• Santa’s Sneeze: Allergies hit Santa hard causing a sneezing fit that leads to delivering presents to the wrong houses.
• Holiday History Hunt: Kids explore town history after finding historic decorations in Grandma’s attic.
• The Perfect Tree Topper: Crafting the perfect tree topper becomes a hilarious family bonding experience.
• Christmas Candy Competition: Neighbors hold a candy-making contest with carolling judges and festive taste testing.
• Secret Santa Mixup: Classmates get their Secret Santa gifts confused leading to funny incorrect gift exchanges.
• Lost Ornament: A special ornament breaks leading the family on a mad hunt to replace it before Christmas morning.
• Holiday Lights Tour: Annual neighbourhood tour of best holiday light displays unites community in cheer.
• Christmas Cookie Crunch: A girl practises competitive cookie eating to beat the class bully in an upcoming contest.
• Nutcracker Rockstar: Though lacking technique, exuberant child casts as the Nutcracker brings the most energy and joy.
• Hot Chocolate Hullaballoo: Little kids hyped up on candy canes and hot cocoa wreak spirited havoc at a family party.
• Blizzard Blackout: Blizzard knocks out power threatening to ruin Christmas, but family bonds over traditions.
• Tree Troublemakers: Mischievous pets wreak havoc by climbing and knocking over the Christmas tree.
• Caroling Calamity: Overzealous carolers keep adding lyrics leading to ridiculously long songs.
• Gingerbread Gabfest: Gingerbread men magically come to life and discuss cookie philosophies all night, keeping a young boy awake.
• Saving Santa’s Reindeer: Girl discovers injured reindeer and helps nurse it back to health before Christmas Eve.
• The 12 Days of Christmas Chaos: Siblings take on increasingly crazy Christmas challenges over the 12 Days of Christmas leading up to the holiday.
• Holiday Hijinks: With the parents away, kids turn the house upside down with their wild Christmas celebrations and antics.
• Santa Selfies: Kids try to capture photographic evidence of Santa on Christmas Eve with elaborate traps and cameras.
• Snow Place Like Home: Snowed in over the holidays, a family bonds over games, music, stories and making the most of the situation.
• Frozen Festivities: A winter storm knocks out power so neighbors hold Christmas festivities outside like caroling by candlelight.
• Christmas Cookie Catastrophe: A Christmas bake-off turns into a kitchen disaster with spilt ingredients and burnt cookies.
• Undecorating Day: Kids get into the creative spirit by dismantling the Christmas decorations on December 26 in the most fun way possible.
• Secret Santa Spy: A Secret Santa mystery sender leaves clues with gifts, challenging kids to uncover who it is before Christmas.
• Christmas Tree Thief: Someone is stealing decorated trees from people’s homes only to return them magically on Christmas.
• Winter Wonderland: An overnight snowstorm transforms the neighbourhood into a winter wonderland for the kids to play in on Christmas morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i make my christmas story about.

First, think about what excites you most about the holiday season. Are you all about the food, like cookies or hot chocolate? Or do you love the aesthetics of decorations and nature in winter? Christmas movies and songs also provide great inspiration.

Themes like family togetherness, the magic of Christmas, and spreading holiday cheer never get old either. Or you can put a spin on classics like A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker. Our list of Christmas story ideas also has fun options too like holiday mishaps, friendly competitions, and overcoming hardships.

Christmas stories shine the brightest when the tone and characters come from the heart. If a particular idea on the list sparks joy or nostalgia, run with it! Rather than worrying about originality, focus on developing characters and plots that move you.

Of course, not all Christmas tales need to be cosy and cheerful either. A humorous, mischievous or even sinister take can also be refreshing. Ultimately, your interests and passion should drive the story. So dream up something that excites you personally – that’s what Christmas spirit is all about!

What makes a great Christmas story?

When it comes to Christmas tales, the most memorable ones have an element of magic, wonder, and feeling that truly captures the holiday spirit. The best Christmas stories include:

• Captivating characters. Well-developed, interesting characters that readers can relate to and root for make any story more engaging. Give your characters personality quirks, backstories, motivations, and flaws.
• Evocative descriptions. Set the festive scene with rich details about surroundings, food, decorations, weather and Christmas traditions. Help readers feel immersed in the yuletide atmosphere.
• An intriguing plot. Have a creative, fun storyline with some conflict to resolve. This could be overcoming a holiday mishap, solving a seasonal mystery, or spreading Christmas cheer.
• Heartwarming themes. Focus on beloved Christmas motifs like the value of family and friends, generosity of spirit, finding magic in everyday moments or faith in human kindness .
• Moments of wonder and joy. Sprinkle in Christmas miracles big and small, whether it’s a special gift, a prayer answered, a romantic moment under mistletoe, or a visit from Santa.
• A powerful ending. Close your story with a resounding message about the meaning of Christmas, leaving readers moved and filled with the holiday spirit!

How do you write a short story for Christmas?

Writing a short story for the holiday season has its own special considerations. First, establish why Christmas matters in your tale. Much can happen in a few pages when embracing the Christmas spirit theme. Drive the characters, plot, motivations and outcomes from a place of holiday significance.

When structuring your Christmas short story, plan it even more concisely than your average short fiction piece. Introduce vital backstory during festive scenes like Christmas tree trimming or holiday bakery visits. Unfold the main conflict quickly and resolve it sharply for maximum impact.

For detailed tips, refer to our guide on how to write a Christmas story in 16 steps . But when adapting that framework for a Christmas tale, focus sharply on Yuletide elements the entire way through for resonance. Getting swept up in Christmas magic for even a short time can inspire wonderful storytelling. So make the most of your limited space by pouring genuine holiday spirit into every paragraph!

What is a great story about Christmas?

The most heartwarming and impactful Christmas stories capture the intangible magic, wonder, and generosity of spirit that make the holiday so special. Classics like “A Christmas Carol”, “The Gift of the Magi”, and “The Little Match Girl” focused on holiday themes that still resonate today.

Great contemporary Christmas stories do the same through plot, character, and carefully crafted yuletide details. For example, hits like “The Polar Express” and “Elf” immerse readers in the childhood joy and belief around Christmas. Uplifting films like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Miracle on 34th Street” highlight the goodness in human nature with holiday flair.

Whether focused on mishaps, adventures, miracles or family, great Christmas stories reflect themes of hope, kindheartedness and the power of faith during the season. Through gleaming characters, clever plots and Christmas spirit, they allow us to reconnect with the magic of the holiday that can so easily get lost in the stresses of adulthood. So a great Christmas story should reawaken your inner child!

The next time you feel inspired to write, revisit this post bursting with Christmas Story Ideas. Whether you take your tale in a comedic, heartwarming or completely unexpected direction, embrace the holiday spirit fully. As you start crafting delightful characters and vivid scenes, remember – the Christmas magic is in the details!

Once finished, share your Christmas stories with family and friends, or even in the comments below. We’d love to hear your take on these ideas or learn about other plans for upcoming festive tales. However you take advantage of these Story Ideas, I wish you an abundance of Christmas creativity, wonder and cheer!

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

Related Posts

Comments loading...

Take the family ice skating and enjoy holiday lights at Enchant at Tropicana Field.

Holiday Events and Lights in St. Pete-Clearwater

‘Tis the season to get in the holiday spirit at festive events throughout St. Pete-Clearwater. Shop at holiday markets, tour twinkling winter wonderlands, and savor seasonal treats. Plan your getaway and enjoy some of the region's best winter activities and events.

View holiday lights at  North Straub Park in St. Pete , check out Largo Central Park 's light display in Largo , take a trip through a winter wonderland at Florida Botanical Gardens , and discover the beautiful Lights of Lake Park Estates .

For a true Florida seasonal experience, watch a holiday boat parade, which you'll find in many St. Pete/Clearwater communities, including Treasure Island , Tarpon Springs , Dunedin  and St. Pete Beach . Other seasonal events could include ice skating, Christmas-themed mini golf, and holiday-inspired craft workshops. The holidays are an incredible time to visit St. Pete-Clearwater!

Watch Our Best Holiday Event Videos

The holidays are just more fun in St. Pete/Clearwater! Check out these top events and have fun celebrating the season.

Have Fun at the Holidays

Looking for some date-night fun, or a holiday outing with the family? We've got you covered.

• Belleair Beach
• Belleair Bluffs
• Clearwater Beach
• Indian Rocks Beach
• Indian Shores
• Madeira Beach
• North Redington Beach
• Palm Harbor
• Pass-a-grille Beach
• Pinellas Park
• Redington Beach
• Redington Shores
• Safety Harbor
• South Pasadena
• St. Pete Beach
• St. Petersburg
• Tarpon Springs
• Tierra Verde
• Treasure Island
• Indian Shores & Indian Rocks Beach
• North Redington Beach & Redington Shores
• Pass-A-Grille Beach

Robert's Christmas Wonderland

One of America's largest and most beautiful Christmas stores! Winner of the best Christmas specialty store in America.

We use cookies to give you the best experience on our site. Learn more or close to accept.

COMMUNITY PARTNER

The St. Pete Holiday Events Guide

• November 30, 2017
• • By Brian Bailey

Free Photos with Santa at Sundial  – Every weekend through December 23

Free photos with santa at north straub park  – every weekend through january 1, snow every night at sundial courtyard – through december 24, christmas outdoor movies: elf at williams park – december 2, snowfest at the north straub park – december 2, santa sisters at sundial – december 2, jonathan cain: christmas journey, unsung noel at the mahaffey theater – december 6, 2nd annual jingle mingle at sunken gardens  – december 7, artflix: white christmas at the dalí  – december 7, 98 degrees at christmas at the mahaffey theater  – december 8, lighted boat parade at downtown waterfront  – december 9, chanukah menorah lighting at sundial  – december 12, shop, sip & stroll at sundial  – december 14, christmas outdoor movies: home alone at williams park – december 16, the florida orchestra presents holiday pops at the mahaffey theater  – december 16, snow-ga at sundial  – december 16, 4th annual st. pete holiday of the arts at south straub park  – december 17, cirque dreams holidaze at the mahaffey theater  – december 20, the ten tenors home for the holidays at the mahaffey  – december 21, moscow ballet’s great russian nutcracker – december 26-27, subscribe now, don’t miss out on all things good in the burg 👉, 👇 get updates 👇.

Stay connected to All Things Good in the Burg by subscribing today.

Brian Bailey

Recent Stories

The St. Pete Date Night Guide

A trailblazer for justice: how James B. Sanderlin shaped civil rights in St. Pete

Top Events this Weekend in St. Pete

Related Stories

St. Pete’s Ultimate Gluten-Free Dining Guide

Kahwa Coffee gives pumpkin spice the middle finger, launches new Fall flavor

Mega Night Market announces two Summer Asian Street Food Festivals in St. Pete and Clearwater

All Recent Stories

Welcome To The Farm is a DTSP hotspot for live music and drink specials

Doc Ford’s hosts National Rum Day celebrations with 50% off The Sanibel Sunset

Boozy Adult Book Fair set for Pinellas County this fall

7+ spots to visit on Free Museum Day in St. Pete this fall

Tarpon Springs’ Hippie Fest is a groovy annual outdoor concert and festival

Since I Love the Burg launched in May of 2009, it has been our mission to make St. Petersburg (a.k.a. the #BURG) the best place to live, work and play.

All Things Good

• Visitor's Guide

More From Us

• History Tours
• About / Contact
• Privacy Policy
• That's So Tampa