Christmas Crackers
You can make your own Christmas crackers and create a fun activity for your holiday.

You'll need the folowing:

  • cardstock
  • ribbons
  • double-sided tape
  • tissue paper crown (see this video for how to make those)
  • tiny toys for prizes
  • Christmas jokes (download a sample list below)
  • cracker snaps (can be ordered from Etsy. I ordered from Etsy member "LaCreekBlue" and was happy.)

See this online description of the process.
https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/christmas-cracker/

Note: I opted not to use a cardboard core (e.g., toilet paper core) and instead made the body of the cracker out of cardstock, which was stiff enough to create a sturdy tube. I found that I could customize the design by creating a Word file and then use the feature to add a picture (jpg file) as a watermark.

Also, I followed the process for scoring the cardstock for fold lines and then discovered that I could print the pre-measured lines on the backside of my design. I created four designs and saved them in a PDF format. You can download them from my links below. (Try using the Word file for the "Family Photo Design" to create your own.)
PDF Templates
Print these on a color printer in duplex (back-to-back) on heavy cardstock. Follow the instructions printed on the back of the design for where to cut and fold the page. Be sure to make the triangular cuts to allow the rolled tube to create a "valley" on each end. Insert cracker snap (and secure it with tape on each end, leaving a little slack). Add your paper crown, Christmas joke, candy and a prize. Roll it up, sealing the edges with double-stick tape, and tie a ribbon on each end.

* Print these on colored paper, and cut them into individual pieces. Insert one folded piece in each cracker. You can find more of these by simply Googling "Christmas cracker jokes." My list above is family friendly, but some of the jokes you find online might not be suitable for kids.
The tradition calls for snapping the crackers before the Christmas dinner and wearing the paper crowns during the meal. Even adults can be kids again!