Celebrate Christmas with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities in Bali
Bali is a magical destination for families during the Christmas season. With its warm tropical climate, festive atmosphere, and wide range of kid-friendly activities, the Island of the Gods ensures a memorable holiday for both parents and children. From festive feasts to thrilling attractions, here are the best ways to celebrate Christmas with your kids in Bali.
1. Enjoy a Festive Brunch at a Family-Friendly Restaurant
Kick off your Christmas celebrations with a festive brunch at one of Bali’s family-friendly restaurants or resorts. Venues like The Laguna Resort & Spa in Nusa Dua host Christmas-themed brunches with delicious buffets, live music, and activities to entertain kids.
At Finns Recreation Club, you can enjoy a special holiday menu while your children participate in fun activities like face painting, cookie decorating, and visits from Santa Claus. These venues provide the perfect combination of gourmet dining and family entertainment.
2. Visit Bali Safari and Marine Park for a Festive Wildlife Adventure
For a day filled with excitement and education, take your kids to the Bali Safari and Marine Park, which often hosts festive-themed activities during the holiday season. Children can see exotic animals up close, enjoy interactive shows, and even meet Santa as he makes a surprise appearance at the park.
The Safari Journey, where you can ride through open enclosures to see lions, tigers, and zebras, is a highlight that kids will love. Combine this with a lunch at the onsite restaurant overlooking the lion enclosure for an unforgettable experience.
3. Explore Waterbom Bali: A Splashy Holiday Treat
If your family loves water adventures, Waterbom Bali in Kuta is the perfect place to celebrate Christmas. This award-winning water park offers slides and attractions for all ages, from thrilling rides like the Climax to gentle lazy rivers for younger kids.
During Christmas, the park often adds festive decorations and themed activities, creating a fun and holiday-spirited environment. Relax in a cabana while your kids enjoy endless fun in the water, making it a Christmas celebration to remember.
4. Create Christmas Crafts at Local Workshops
Get creative with your kids by participating in a Christmas-themed craft workshop. Many venues in Ubud, such as Green Camp, offer family-friendly workshops where children can make ornaments, paint holiday-themed artwork, or create handmade gifts using sustainable materials.
These workshops not only provide a fun activity but also teach kids about Balinese culture and the importance of eco-friendly practices. It’s a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday season while creating keepsakes to take home.
5. Visit Bali’s Christmas Markets for Holiday Cheer
Take your kids to Bali’s charming Christmas markets, where they can enjoy festive decorations, music, and treats. Markets like the Ubud Christmas Market or those in Seminyak feature stalls selling handmade crafts, holiday snacks, and toys that kids will adore.
Many markets also host carol singing, live entertainment, and activities like gingerbread house decorating, ensuring your children stay engaged while soaking in the holiday cheer.
6. Spend a Day at Bali’s Best Beaches
A tropical Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a day at the beach. Head to family-friendly beaches like Sanur or Nusa Dua, where calm waters and soft sands make them ideal for kids.
Build sandcastles, take a paddleboarding lesson, or enjoy a family picnic under the shade of palm trees. Some beachfront resorts offer holiday packages that include access to pools, water sports, and festive dining options, allowing you to relax while your kids have fun.
7. Experience a Balinese Cultural Celebration
Introduce your children to the rich traditions of Bali by attending a cultural event or ceremony. Many temples, such as Tirta Empul, host special rituals during the holiday season. While these aren’t Christmas-specific, the serene atmosphere and vibrant traditions provide a unique cultural experience.
You can also watch a Balinese dance performance, such as the Barong Dance in Ubud, which tells mythical stories through colorful costumes and dramatic movements. These cultural experiences help your children learn about the island’s heritage in an engaging way.
8. Indulge in a Family Spa Day
Bali is known for its wellness retreats, and many spas now offer treatments specifically designed for families. Places like Karma Kandara in Uluwatu provide kid-friendly massages and activities alongside parent-focused treatments.
Treat your family to a relaxing spa day where kids can enjoy gentle aromatherapy massages while parents unwind with traditional Balinese therapies. It’s a great way to bond as a family while recharging during the busy holiday season.
Bali is a fantastic destination for families looking to celebrate Christmas in a tropical paradise. From festive feasts and thrilling attractions to cultural experiences and creative workshops, the island offers a wide range of activities to ensure your holiday is filled with joy and lasting memories.
Plan your family-friendly Christmas in Bali today and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Book your festive brunches, explore Bali’s attractions, and enjoy a magical holiday season on the Island of the Gods.
