December is a magical month filled with festive cheer, twinkling lights, and the warmth of family gatherings. To get into the holiday spirit, I’ve created 31 Christmas-themed drawing prompts to inspire your creativity. Whether you’re cozy by the fireplace or enjoying a snowy day outside, these prompts will add a festive touch to your art journey this month.
✏️ Tips Before Starting
Before we begin, make sure you’re fully equipped with the right tools and techniques! Check out my Drawing Prompt Guide for how to effectively use drawing prompts and how these creative exercises improve your skills. Additionally, my Choosing Your Artist Tools Guide will help you select the perfect materials to bring your artistic visions to life. With these guides, you’ll have everything you need to start on your artistic journey with confidence.
Drawing Prompt #1 – Santa’s Workshop (Day 1)
Imagine Santa’s workshop on a bustling December evening. Elves are busy making toys, wrapping presents, and preparing for the big night. Picture the scene with colorful packages, candy canes, and cheerful elves working hard. Draw this lively workshop and let your imagination fill in the details of Santa’s magical workplace.
Drawing Prompt #2 – Christmas Morning (Day 2)
Remember the excitement of waking up on Christmas morning, the smell of pine from the tree, and the thrill of opening gifts? Capture this moment by drawing a family gathered around the Christmas tree, children eagerly unwrapping presents while parents watch with smiles. Focus on the joy and warmth of this special time.
Drawing Prompt #3 – Carolers in the Snow (Day 3)
Picture a group of carolers singing festive songs on a snowy evening. They’re bundled up in warm coats, scarves, and hats, holding songbooks and lanterns. Snowflakes are gently falling, adding a magical touch to the scene. Draw these cheerful carolers spreading holiday cheer through their music.
Drawing Prompt #4 – Gingerbread House (Day 4)
Creating a gingerbread house is a beloved Christmas tradition. Imagine a beautifully decorated gingerbread house with icing, candy canes, gumdrops, and other colorful sweets. Draw this delicious creation, focusing on the intricate details and festive decorations that make it so special.
Drawing Prompt #5 – Sleigh Ride (Day 5)
It’s time for a cozy sleigh ride through a winter wonderland. A horse-drawn sleigh glides over the snow, with a family bundled up in blankets enjoying the ride. The landscape is dotted with snow-covered trees and twinkling lights. Draw this serene and picturesque scene, capturing the magic of a holiday sleigh ride.
Drawing Prompt #6- Holidays at the Grandparent’s House (Day 6)
You see a living room filled with the warmth and love of the holiday season. There are children excitedly helping their grandmother decorate a beautiful Christmas tree. The tree is adorned with colorful ornaments, twinkling lights, and a sparkling star at the top. Nearby, Grandpa is bringing in fresh firewood from outside, stacking it neatly by the fireplace to keep everyone warm. Draw this heartwarming scene, capturing the joy and togetherness of family during the holidays. Don’t forget to add your personal touch, maybe include your favorite ornaments or details that make this moment special to you!
Drawing Prompt #7 – Hanging Stockings by the Fireplace (Day 7)
Imagine a warm and festive living room on Christmas Eve. Children are eagerly helping their parents hang stockings by the fireplace. One of the younger children is too short to reach the mantle on their own and needs a parent’s help to lift them up. Meanwhile, the older child is trying to stretch their Christmas stocking, hoping it will hold more goodies. Draw this playful and heartwarming scene, capturing the excitement and anticipation of Christmas. Include details like the decorations on the stockings, the expressions on the children’s faces, and the cozy atmosphere of the room. Add your unique touch to make this moment come alive!
Drawing Prompt #8 – A Cat Christmas (Day 8)
What a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, twinkling with lights and adorned with colorful ornaments. Now imagine a beloved house cat, full of curiosity and excitement, exploring this festive centerpiece. The cat has climbed up the inside of the tree and is now poking its head out, wide-eyed and playful. Draw this amusing and endearing scene, capturing the mischievous nature of the cat and the sparkling beauty of the Christmas tree. Include details like the cat’s expression, the ornaments it might have knocked askew, and the cozy ambiance of the holiday setting. Let your creativity shine as you bring this charming moment to life!
Drawing Prompt #9 – Cozy Christmas Movie Night (Day 9)
It’s a cozy living room on a cold winter evening. Children are wrapped in warm blankets, sitting together and enjoying their favorite Christmas movie. They are sipping on hot chocolate, with marshmallows floating on top, and munching on beautifully decorated gingerbread cookies. Draw this heartwarming scene, capturing the comfort and joy of this festive tradition. Include details like the expressions on the children’s faces, the intricate decorations on the cookies, and the festive decorations in the room.
Drawing Prompt #10 – Candy Cane for Two (Day 10)
You see a festive living room where a young child is happily sharing their candy cane with their patient dog. The dog is licking the candy cane, enjoying the sweet treat, while the child is smiling with delight. Meanwhile, in the background, the child’s parent has just realized what’s happening and is showing a mix of shock and embarrassment. Draw this humorous and heartwarming scene, capturing the innocence of the child, the patience of the dog, and the parent’s amusing reaction. Include details like the holiday decorations in the room, the child’s happy expression, and the dog’s contented demeanor.
Drawing Prompt #11 – Gingerbread Masterpiece (Day 11)
Imagine a young child with a look of intense concentration, building a gingerbread house with single-minded focus. This is no ordinary gingerbread house—it’s their masterpiece, crafted with the dedication and precision of Michelangelo painting the Sistine Chapel. The child is carefully placing each gumdrop and icing swirl, completely absorbed in the creation. Draw this scene, capturing the child’s determination and the intricate details of their gingerbread house. Include elements like the child’s focused expression, the assortment of colorful candies, and the festive atmosphere of the room.
Drawing Prompt #12 – Christmas Day Parade (Day 12)
Picture a lively Christmas Day parade with a crowd of families bundled up in jackets, warm hats, and mittens to stay warm in the cool weather. Among them is a family cheering and pointing excitedly at their favorite floats as they pass by. The air is filled with festive cheer, colorful floats, and joyful music. Draw this vibrant scene, capturing the excitement and warmth of the moment. Include details like the expressions of the family members, the festive decorations on the floats, and the cozy clothing of the crowd. Let your creativity bring this festive and heartwarming scene to life!
Drawing Prompt #13 – Wrapping Joy (Day 13)
Two parents are lovingly wrapping toys for their children in anticipation of Christmas Day. They are sitting together, sharing tape, wrapping paper, and scissors, working as a team to create beautifully wrapped presents. The room is filled with festive decorations and the warm glow of holiday lights. Draw this tender and joyful scene, capturing the love and care the parents put into wrapping each gift. Include details like the parents’ expressions, the colorful wrapping paper, and the festive atmosphere of the room.
Drawing Prompt #14 – Christmas Cards with Love (Day 14)
An elderly couple sits at their cozy kitchen table, writing Christmas cards to send out to friends and family. They are wearing reading glasses and carefully checking their address lists to ensure each card reaches the right person. The table is scattered with colorful cards, envelopes, and stamps. Draw this scene, capturing the couple’s dedication and love as they prepare their holiday greetings. Include details like their expressions, the festive decorations in the room, and the cozy atmosphere that surrounds them.
Drawing Prompt #15 – First Visit with Santa (Day 15)
You see a heartwarming scene at a festive holiday event where a baby is being held by their parents for their very first visit with Santa Claus. The baby is wide-eyed, possibly a bit unsure but curious, as Santa gently holds them for a photo. The parents are standing beside Santa, smiling with excitement and joy. Draw this touching moment, capturing the baby’s innocent wonder, Santa’s warm and friendly demeanor, and the festive backdrop of the holiday setting. Include details like the holiday decorations, the parents’ expressions, and the cozy atmosphere of the scene.
Drawing Prompt #16 – Speeding Ticket Lecture (Day 16)
Imagine a humorous scene on Christmas Eve where an elf, dressed in their festive attire, is lecturing and shaking a finger at a police officer. The officer, looking a bit flustered, has just attempted to give Santa Claus and his reindeer a speeding ticket. Santa is in his sleigh, looking surprised, while his reindeer seem amused. The elf is standing firmly, making sure the holiday spirit is upheld. Draw this light-hearted and funny moment, capturing the elf’s stern yet respectful expressions, the officer’s confused face, and the festive setting of Santa’s sleigh and reindeer.
Drawing Prompt #17 – Skating with Friends (Day 17)
It’s a busy time at a festive ice skating rink beautifully decorated for Christmas, with twinkling lights and cheerful decorations. Friends are happily skating together, some of them wearing Santa hats and enjoying the holiday spirit. The rink is bustling with laughter and joy as everyone glides across the ice. Draw this lively and joyful scene, capturing the excitement of ice skating, the festive decorations, and the friends’ cheerful expressions. Include details like the sparkling lights, the vibrant colors of the Santa hats, and the festive atmosphere of the rink.
Drawing Prompt #18 – Cozy Sleigh Ride (Day 18)
Picture a cozy sleigh ride through a winter wonderland. A couple is snuggled together under warm blankets, wearing hats, scarves, and warm jackets to keep cozy in the cold. Their cute little dog is nestled in their lap, also dressed in a festive winter outfit, enjoying the ride. The sleigh is gliding through a snowy landscape, with the gentle jingle of bells adding to the festive atmosphere. Draw this heartwarming scene, capturing the couple’s content expressions, the dog’s adorable outfit, and the snowy, picturesque backdrop.
Drawing Prompt #19 – Bedtime Story (Day 19)
It’s bedtime and a parent is reading a Christmas story to their child before they go to sleep. The child, dressed in pajamas, is sitting next to the parent, eagerly looking at the book’s illustrations. Outside the window, snow is gently falling, adding to the peaceful, wintry atmosphere. Draw this tender moment, capturing the warmth of the bedtime routine, the child’s excited gaze at the book, and the serene snowfall outside. Include details like the illustrations in the book, the cozy setting of the room, and the gentle, loving expressions of both parent and child.
Drawing Prompt #20 – A Christmas Play (Day 20)
You are watching a delightful Christmas play where children are performing on stage. One child has just stepped out dressed as one of Santa’s magical reindeer, complete with antlers and a festive costume. In the audience, a parent is trying to discreetly take pictures of their child, capturing this proud moment. Draw this charming scene, highlighting the child’s excitement and the parent’s loving attempt to preserve the memory. Include details like the colorful stage decorations, the reindeer costume, and the parent’s focused expression as they snap the photo.
Drawing Prompt #21 – Letter to Santa (Day 21)
A child sits at a table, carefully writing a letter to Santa Claus. Alongside the letter, the child has created a colorful crayon drawing that illustrates their heartfelt wish. The letter is filled with earnest requests and the drawing vividly depicts what the child hopes for. Draw this touching scene, capturing the child’s concentration and creativity. Include details like the handwritten letter, the crayon drawing, and the warm setting where the child is working their letter.
Drawing Prompt #22 – Snow Angels and Christmas Lights (Day 22)
It’s a magical winter scene where children are outside making snow angels in freshly fallen snow. As they move their arms and legs to create their snowy masterpieces, the snow gently falls around them. In the background, their house is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights, adding a festive glow to the scene. Draw this joyful and serene moment, capturing the children’s excitement as they play, the delicate snowfall, and the warm, cheerful lights of the decorated house. Include details like the children’s snowy footprints, the intricate Christmas lights, and the peaceful winter atmosphere.
Drawing Prompt #23 – Eggnog with a Friend (Day 23)
Draw a cozy gathering where friends are enjoying homemade eggnog together. They’re sitting around a table filled with glasses of creamy eggnog, sprinkled with nutmeg and cinnamon. The table is also adorned with an assortment of cookies and other sweet treats, adding to the festive atmosphere. Draw this warm and cheerful scene, capturing the friends’ enjoyment and the delicious spread of treats. Include details like the frothy eggnog, the array of sweets, and the cozy setting where they’re hanging out together.
Drawing Prompt #24 – Christmas Eve Surprises (Day 24)
It’s Christmas Eve and parents are setting out the last of the special gifts under the Christmas tree. They’re adding final touches to the decorations and carefully placing wrapped gifts, believing their kids are fast asleep. Unbeknownst to them, three sets of curious eyes are peeking from the top of the stairs, watching intently from around the corner. Draw this magical moment, capturing the parents’ excitement and the children’s eager anticipation. Include details like the beautifully decorated tree, the array of wrapped gifts, and the children’s playful expressions as they observe from their hiding spot.
Drawing Prompt #25 – Christmas Day Joy (Day 25)
It’s Christmas Day, for today think of a joyful Christmas Day scene where everyone is gathered together, reveling in the holiday spirit. Family members are exchanging warm hugs, expressing thanks, and showing off their new toys, clothes, and treats received from Santa and loved ones. The room is filled with festive decorations and the excitement of the day’s gifts. Draw this heartwarming scene, capturing the expressions of happiness and gratitude, the array of new presents, and the cozy, celebratory atmosphere. Include details like the festive decorations, the variety of gifts, and the joyful interactions among family members.
Drawing Prompt #26 – Festive Family Photo (Day 26)
It’s a lively family gathering as everyone prepares to take a festive group photo. The family members are dressed in their holiday best—some in quirky, colorful ugly sweaters, others in elegant attire or matching red and green outfits. Santa hats and ribbons add to the festive look. Draw this cheerful scene, capturing the excitement and joy of getting ready for the photo. Include details like the variety of outfits, the playful and loving expressions as they pose together, and any holiday decorations or props that enhance the festive atmosphere.
Drawing Prompt #27 – Snowy Christmas Cheer (Day 27)
You see a serene winter scene where someone is shoveling snow from their driveway, making sure the path is clear. Their house is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights that twinkle and shine against the snowy backdrop. Through a window, children can be seen looking outside, mesmerized by the gently falling snow and the festive decorations. Draw this peaceful and picturesque moment, capturing the contrast between the hard work of shoveling and the joy of the holiday decorations. Include details like the sparkling Christmas lights, the snow-covered landscape, and the children’s excited expressions.
Drawing Prompt #28 – Virtual Greetings (Day 28)
It’s a warm and cheerful scene where family members are gathered around a laptop or tablet, using FaceTime to connect with grandparents who live far away. Everyone is smiling and waving as they show off the little kids, who are excitedly sharing their new Christmas gifts. The grandparents, visible on the screen, are beaming with joy as they interact with their loved ones. Draw this heartwarming moment, capturing the connection and love shared through the video call. Include details like the family’s festive surroundings, the excited expressions of the kids, and the happy faces of the grandparents on the screen.
Drawing Prompt #29 – New Year’s Eve Recipe (Day 29)
You see someone meticulously preparing for a New Year’s Eve party by taking notes and writing out recipes for delicious food and snacks. The person is surrounded by cookbooks, notepads, and ingredient lists, with a look of focus. Draw this organized and festive scene, capturing the details of the recipe notes, the array of cookbooks, and any festive decorations or party planning materials. Include the person’s thoughtful expression and the vibrant preparations for the upcoming celebration.
Drawing Prompt #30 – New Year’s Resolutions Chat (Day 30)
Two friends excitedly are discussing their grand plans for the New Year’s resolutions. One friend is enthusiastically declaring their intention to get a gym membership and stick to a new fitness routine. The other friend, gently chuckling, is playfully reminding them that this was their resolution from last year. Draw this lively and humorous conversation, capturing the contrast between the bold resolution and the light-hearted reminder. Include details like their expressions, any playful gestures, and perhaps a calendar or notepad with resolution ideas.
Drawing Prompt #31 – New Year’s Eve Cheers (Day 31)
Imagine a spirited New Year’s Eve celebration with three friends standing together, their arms wrapped around each other and their cheeks rosy. They are raising glasses of sparkling drinks and singing joyfully as they welcome the new year. In the background, a clock shows the countdown to midnight, marking the transition to the new year. Draw this exciting and exuberant scene, capturing the friends’ happy expressions, the clinking of glasses, and the vibrant atmosphere of the celebration.
Conclusion
These December drawing prompts are perfect for getting into the festive spirit and adding a touch of holiday magic to your artwork. I hope they inspire you to create beautiful and joyful pieces throughout December. Happy drawing, Merry Christmas and have a Happy New Year!