Stop Wondering How to Start a Family Christmas Tradition—Try This...

Every year, I hear from moms who say...

"I want to start a Christmas tradition for my family... but I don’t even know where to begin!"

If that’s you, you’re not alone—and the good news is, starting a meaningful tradition doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming.

At Gem State Christmas, we believe the best family traditions are simple, heartfelt, and easy enough to repeat year after year without stress.

Here’s one sweet, simple tradition you can start right now:

🎄 Create a Christmas Eve Memory Box

It’s easy, magical, and grows with your family as the years go by.
Here’s how it works:

Choose or decorate a special "Christmas Eve Box" (it can be a wooden box, a festive basket, or even a wrapped gift box).
Every Christmas Eve, fill it with:
• New holiday pajamas
• A Christmas-themed book
• A special treat (cocoa packet, candy cane, or cookies)
• A family note or letter highlighting a favorite memory from the year

surprised little boy sitting next to Santa with an open Santa Toy Sack and magic coming from the bag

You open the box together on Christmas Eve, read the story, sip cocoa, and soak up the magic of slowing down together before the excitement of Christmas morning.

Why it works:
• It builds anticipation and connection.
• It creates a calming Christmas Eve ritual.
• It’s meaningful without being expensive or overwhelming.
• Kids come to treasure it—and expect it!—as they grow.

Why Start Small?

The best traditions are the ones your family feels, not the ones you force.
A Christmas Eve Memory Box naturally becomes something kids associate with comfort, magic, and family love—and that’s what Christmas is really all about.

At Gem State Christmas, we’re all about helping Idaho families create memories that will last far beyond the wrapping paper and cookies.
And sometimes, it all starts with just one little box... and a whole lot of heart.

little girl and santa enjoying a laugh in Santas workshop in downtown meridian idaho

Behind the scenes look of Santa inside the Tolleth House a 1907 Historic Victorian Farmhouse, the setting of our private Santa Encounters.

12 Page Santa Coloring Book

free download

Capture the Magic of Christmas! ✨🎄

Make this holiday season unforgettable with a Private Santa Experience and photo session! Immerse your family in the wonder of Christmas and create timeless memories with Gem State Christmas. Santa is waiting to share magical moments with your little ones. Cherish the joy of the season and capture it forever. Book your Santa Encounter now and make this Christmas truly magical!

Reserve Your Santa Encounter Today!

Call now (208) 863-0187

Thee Picture Collage of two little boys building toys with Santa in his magic workshop

Little boy holding a present as Santa standing in the doorway behind him to surprise him

Little girls, sisters in matching PJ's sitting in Santa's chair as Santa is standing behind them for a perfect photo opportunity

Season's Greetings!

Seasons Greetings from our team at Gem State Christmas. Hi! We are Elizabeth and Amber, Co-Founders of Gem State Christmas. Located in Downtown Meridian, Idaho. We are two friends, creatives, dreamers and Christmas fanatics bringing Idaho the most unique and currated Holiday Traditions. From decorating for the Holidays, entertaining your guest, to private visits with the jolly man in red himself we are excited to highlight all things Christmas for the beautiful Gem State.

Speaking of Santa... You can learn all about our Exclusive 60 Minute Santa Encounter here 👇🏼

SANTA ENCOUNTERS