When the weather starts to cool down, I immediately go to my happy place. Cozy blankets, warm fire and hot chocolate with all the people I love. Winter and cold weather has alway been a season of reminiscing and in general, a time to slow down.
I know for sure I want to make memories with my kids that when they can close their eyes and think of their childhood, they remember some happy times! As we do normal things like this during the holiday season we start to realize that maybe hot cocoa is more than just a drink —it starts to became a ritual, a moment of pause and connection amidst the festive frenzy.
Here are some ways you can use hot cocoa as a family tradition yourself!
5 Ideas to Celebrate the Holiday Season with Hot Cocoa
1. Hot Cocoa Night Caps
Designate a night of the week as “Hot Cocoa Night” during the holiday season. Make it special by having different hot cocoa recipes—think peppermint, white chocolate, or even spicy Mexican hot chocolate. Gather around the fireplace or the living room, wrapped in blankets, and share your day or favorite holiday memories.
2. DIY Hot Cocoa Bar
Create a hot cocoa bar during your holiday gatherings or parties. Set up a station with hot cocoa mix, marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips, cinnamon sticks, and any other favorite toppings. This not only serves as a delicious treat for your guests but also a daily reminder that Christmas is here! I also love to provide to-go-cups for the kids so they can take hot chocolate to school each morning.
3. Hot Cocoa and Holiday Lights
One of favorites to do ( EVEN as TEENS!!) Bundle up and take your family on a walk or a drive to see the neighborhood holiday lights. Before you head out, prepare thermoses filled with hot cocoa to keep everyone warm. My kids always love this tradition. Even when I can’t make the hot cocoa we head to Dutch Bros or Starbucks to pick up their fav!
4. Cocoa and Crafts
Organize a cocoa and crafts day with your family or friends. Serve hot cocoa as you engage in holiday craft-making, like ornaments, greeting cards, or homemade gifts. The cozy ambiance, fueled by hot cocoa, will make the creative process even more enjoyable for everyone!
5. Hot Cocoa Gift Kits
If you love making gifts you can spread the joy by creating hot cocoa gift kits to give to neighbors, teachers, or friends. Include a jar of homemade hot cocoa mix, a few marshmallows, and a cute mug. This not only shares your family tradition with others but also instills the spirit of giving and thoughtfulness which is always so important to teach our kids!
For whatever reason during the holiday season I can really SEE them and embrace how much they’ve grown, reflect on my hopes and dream for them and just think back on years before. Even if it’s just for a moment.
A laugh. A snuggle. A thoughtful glance. Are all things I hold dear to me and when we sit down on our hot cocoa nights those moment just happen naturally for us all. Hot cocoa seems to be apart of our holiday love language. You mention hot cocoa and we all immediately get excited! It’s really nothing special. Just a teaspoon or two of pre-made hot chocolate mix with milk and a ton of marshmallow. Like way to many marshmallows all set in mugs just for us to enjoy. I also love to get a few extra hot cocoa things like chocolate spoons and marshmallow sticks! But these nights are so special to us. Maybe it’s because we are all just in the same room and just enjoying each other!
When it comes to kids you never know what memories they will hold on to.
Will it be the way I gave them way too many marshmallows?
The way our little twinkle town was set in fake snow?
Will it be a hidden ELF ON THE SHELF they were always eager to find?
Or will it be a feeling that’s even harder to describe?
Hot cocoa is more than just a warm drink—it’s a tool, a vessel for joy, nostalgia, and togetherness. Incorporating it into your holiday traditions not only provides memories but also brings my people together, creating moments that linger long after the season ends.
Whether it’s through a weekly hot cocoa night, a craft day , or a thoughtful gift of cocoa kits, the simple act of sharing a cup can knit hearts closer and make the holiday season all the more special. So this year, as the air turns colder and the lights twinkle brighter, let hot cocoa be the thread that weaves through your holiday traditions, warming both hands and hearts.
I love being a memory maker for our family and hopefully you love being your families memory maker too!
