We have an elf who comes to stay on 1st december and gets picked up by Santa when he delivers the presents. Our elf isn't there to check up on whether they have been 'good' or not - he comes because he is a bit too mischievous and santa wants them to show him how to behave better. Like the kindness elf idea, might incorporate it this year. Our elf does some mischievous / funny things, plays with the children's toys, hides in odd places, and also brings occasional presents like new christmas books / dvd's, christmas themed craft projects.
We have an advent garland made up of little stockings I crocheted, which the elf fills with little treats when he arrives.
We go to the local christmas market, which is held on the first weekend in december each year.
We missed it last year because of my work, but we like to go to the lights switch on.
This year I have booked tickets to a 'pyjamas and blankets' showing of the Polare Express at a local independent cinema. Really looking forward to it (and hoping I don't have to work!). If possible I think I'd like to make that a regular tradition.
We leave out a mince pie and glass of milk for santa and a carrot for his reindeer, and sit the elf beside them to be picked up. Last year we also did reindeer food, might do it again this year. We used porridge oats mixed with glitter.
On christmas day we stay home and anyone who wants to visit is welcome, but don't expect a visit from us! I like the cosiness of staying in and not having to faff about going out. Makes it a proper family day.
We open our stockings upstairs and the pressies in there keep the little ones busy while hubby and I get showered and dressed. Then downstairs for bacon butties for breakfast, then opening the rest of the presents in between cooking the dinner. We have it around midday, as we don't like to have too big a meal in the evening.
We spend the afternoon and evening playing with our new toys, watching christmas telly / films (always including the Snowman) and eating festive snacks and chocolates.
On boxing day I usually go by myself to the Next sale, but not at silly o'clock in the morning! There is usually some nice stuff left late morning / early afternoon when I go.
I don't know yet if I'll have to work - havve volunteered tor night duty on new years eve, so hoping I get that instead. Not even sure when I will know.
(the main reason was to get us out the house so she could wrap our presents)
e.g. over the years, i've had money, tv, jewellery etc. I don't do it with my family anymore as we don't see them until tea time on Christmas anyway but i've started doing it with my OH and we'd like to carry on with our children 
