Just because holidays and tradition go hand in hand, it doesn't mean your annual holiday activities have to start feeling (dare we say it?) stale. With all the entertaining we find ourselves doing at this time of year, from kids out on winter break to visiting family and friends, it's well worth shaking things up a bit. There are plenty of holiday activities out there that'll get you in the seasonal spirit, while still feeling totally fresh. So instead of going to the same old neighborhood hangout or the same ice-skating rink for the 100th time, we put together a killer itinerary that celebrates the season with a few unexpected twists. Feel free to follow our day of festive fun as planned, or break things up over a few weeks!

Morning: Destress at Yoga Class

The holidays are hectic, which means actually scheduling some "me time" can be crucial. Instead of hitting the door running, start your day by letting the stress of the holidays melt away. More and more studios are offering kids and all ages classes, too, which means the young 'uns don't even need to be discluded. You can stretch and flex together before heading out for a day of fun that's sure to feel a lot more manageable.

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Afternoon: Bond Over High Tea

High tea can be an elegant affair to be sure, but around the holidays it can get an extra festive twist. It's not uncommon for the hotels that offer high tea such as The Drake in Chicago to provide live musical performances of holiday favorites. Even if there's no live music though, it's almost guaranteed that the place will be dressed to the nines in holiday finery from festive garlands to twinkling lights. Add a soothing cup of earl grey and some delicate pastries to the mix and there's no better way to take a break from the holiday bustle. Plus, most snacks served are basically finger foods, which will be sure to please any little ones in tow.

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Early Evening: Warm Up with Hibachi

Heading to a hibachi grill might not seem like a particularly holiday-inspired choice, but it's hard to deny that there's something celebratory about them. Watching slick chefs flip shrimp and veggies into the air over the grill adds an element of performance to dinner. The "show" is a big hit with kids and adults alike; the food is warm, hearty, and filling; and sitting around the hot grill is kind of like sitting around a fireplace, no? Well, that might be a stretch, but after a day traipsing around town in the chilly weather, a seat at a place like Benihana will be a welcome one.

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Evening: Get a Taste of Zoo Magic

Every year, zoos across the country put on a spectacular holiday display, and we don't mean popping adorable Santa hats on all the reindeer. No, as the days grow shorter it's become tradition for zoos to put on stunning light displays. The zoo takes on a different atmosphere at night, making it one of those family activities worth revisiting even if you've already made a trip or two over the summer. Plus, many zoos offer more than just lights; they often provide an array of holiday programming that can run the gamut from ice sculpture displays to local band and choir performances. See what the zoo near you offers and cap off a truly magical day.

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