The idea of the Christmas Eve box is that it should contain items that will help the festive fun go with a swing. Once you've finished the necessary chores, it's time for some relaxation - so open the box and settle down to enjoy the treats inside.
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Christmas Eve box origins
The Christmas Eve box is a relatively new tradition and nobody knows exactly how it started. Vince Mitchell, a professor of marketing at The University of Sydney Business School, has spent 30 years researching consumers and says it most certainly isn't a historic tradition.
The idea began in the 21st century and the search term "Christmas Eve box" first became notable on Google in 2014. By 2016, the number of searches had tripled, and major retailers took advantage of the latest trend. Consumer research revealed online sales of Christmas Eve boxes had increased by more than 360% since 2015.
The trend appears to have gone viral because lots of parents have had the same idea: it's Christmas Eve, the shops are closed, everyone is at home and the children are excited about Christmas Day, so it's an ideal time to enjoy a family activity.
Professor Mitchell says they are far more than just a fad and are here to stay, as the fun of personalising a box for your child adds another dimension to Christmas and builds on the excitement before the big day.
What goes in the box?
The contents of the box is down to personal choice. Some families see them as a chance for the kids to wind down, including items such as hot chocolate, a soothing bubble bath, new pyjamas to wear on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day morning while presents are being opened, and a festive DVD.
Other suggestions include a family board game, a Christmas book for a bedtime story, sweets and chocolates, such as candy canes and foil-wrapped coins, or even a "letter from Santa", telling the children they're on the "good list" this year - but only if they go to bed when they're told!
If you have pets, you can pop in some festive treats for your furry friends too, as most pet shops and supermarkets provide packs of Christmas-themed chews and snacks for dogs and cats.
Simple activities
Another idea is to make a simple festive door hanger by adding a bell and ribbon, leaving an attached blank card and putting some crayons in the box, so the child can write their name on the card and a message such as, "Santa stop here!"
Adding a small and simple activity can tire them out if it's the last thing they do at night, so they can hang the greeting on their bedroom door just before they go to sleep. It also gives parents time to prepare the turkey while keeping the kids occupied!
Are they just for kids?
Considering adults spend lots of time making Christmas special for all the family, it follows that they're entitled to their own little treats in the shape of a Christmas Eve box!
Adults can enjoy some festive magic by including items such as a small bottle of wine or a bottle of whiskey, some chocolates or other festive fare, a feel-good film, Christmas t-shirts and pyjamas, or some fun items like elf socks and fluffy reindeer slippers!
Although Christmas is undoubtedly a time that children love, the adults need some fun too - and they certainly deserve it, considering all the effort that goes into the festive season!
If you're planning to make your own customised Christmas Eve boxes, Solent Plastics has a range of high-quality plastic storage solutions that are ideal. They come in all shapes and sizes and can be customised to your own personal choice.
Please contact us for more information on how our products can help your festive season go with a swing!