Holidays are hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to drift apart amid the tinsel and to-do lists.

That’s why intentional connection matters now more than ever. You don’t need big, elaborate plans. You just need a few fun, meaningful moments to remind each other why you’re a team and why you enjoy being together in the first place.

1. 12 Days of Mini-Date Nights

Forget trying to plan a single “perfect” date during the holiday chaos. Instead, enjoy 12 mini-dates leading up to Christmas. Keep them small, simple, and fun:

• Build a gingerbread house (and maybe sneak a few bites of candy)
• Watch a cheesy holiday movie under a blanket fort
• Take a 15-minute stroll to see the neighborhood lights
• Make a cup of hot cocoa and toast to one favorite memory from the year

Small doses of connection can feel surprisingly big…and memorable.

2. Christmas Connection Questions

Grab a jar, write down 20 holiday-themed prompts, and draw one each evening:

• “What’s your favorite holiday memory from childhood?”
• “If we could spend a holiday anywhere in the world, where would it be?”
• “What’s one silly tradition you’d like us to start?”

The goal: conversation that’s playful, heartfelt, and not just about logistics or chores. Bonus: you might discover something new about each other along the way.

3. Holiday “Yes” Challenge

For one week, say “yes” to small, playful suggestions from your spouse…even if it’s out of your comfort zone. Try their quirky holiday cookie recipe, help them build a mini snowman (real or indoor), or make a goofy holiday TikTok together.

The rule? Laugh, participate, and embrace the silliness. Connection grows when you’re willing to step into each other’s world — even for a little while.

4. Ornament of Gratitude

Pick or make a blank ornament. Every day, write something you’re thankful for about your spouse and hang it on the tree. By Christmas Eve, your tree is not only festive but also full of personal love notes. It’s a tangible reminder of your appreciation and connection.

5. 12-Minute Holiday Hug / Snuggle Sessions

Set a timer for 12 minutes of focused connection. No phones. No distractions. Just holding each other, talking, laughing, or simply enjoying each other’s presence. Short, simple, and surprisingly powerful, especially when the world outside the holiday bubble is busy.

This holiday season, give yourselves the gift of intentionally being together. Pick one (or two!) of these activities and make it part of your daily rhythm. Laugh. Play. Dream. Connect.

Try one and see what happens. It might just become your new favorite tradition!