It's widely believed that the 'Christmas Eve Box' made its way to the UK from across the Atlantic. However, this seemingly new tradition in fact hails from Germany - where the opening of gifts on Heiliger Abend (Christmas Eve) started in the 16th century. 

The Christmas Eve Box is designed for you and your loved ones to spend some genuine downtime together. Something that can provide the perfect excuse to pause and cosy up in some lovely new PJs, with a hot drink, nostalgic snacks, and a (soon to be favourite) Christmas film, book or board game. 

The beauty is in the interpretation - it can be as big or as small as you’d like to make it. And when there are kids involved, it can provide a wonderful way to settle them down on the most exciting night of the year. So why not wind down together.

Below are a few ideas you can mix and match, which will be a sure way to help make Christmas Eve that little more magical...

• A new set of PJs for the kids
• Girls' or boys' socks for cosy toes
• A family movie or a favourite Christmas film (don’t forget the popcorn)
• A board game to play together in the evening
• A festive book (plus scented candles)
• Hot chocolate in a mug (with extra marshmallows)
• Christmas cookies or chocolate coins (making sure you leave some for Santa!)
• Bubble bath for before bedtime