Yes, youIf you're family, you're invited
This Christmas we're bringing the whole bloodline under one roof. Doesn't matter how far out on the family tree you sit or how long it's been since we last saw you. If we share a great-great-somebody, there's a spot by the fire with your name on it.
GrandparentsAunts & unclesFirst cousinsSecond cousinsThird cousinsCousins once removedThe cousin you met once at a weddingAll the kids
The only rule: if you're related by blood, you're on the list. Bring your spouse and your kids too.
RSVP and questions
Email Robbie to say you're in, or ask anything about the trip.
grandfamilychristmas@gmail.comWhere we'll beA big wood cabin in the Mammoth Mountains
Picture it: snow up to the windowsills, a crackling fireplace, a tree that touches the ceiling, and enough bedrooms for the entire family.
We're planning on the Mammoth Lakes area in California's Eastern Sierra (final location and exact dates are coming soon). Here's the plan: everyone meets up at Robbie's place in San Diego first, then we all caravan up to the cabin together in vans. No mountain driving on your own.
Getting to Robbie's in San Diego
- Modestoabout 6 hrs
- Phoenixabout 5–6 hrs
- Flying inland at SAN
Then, all together
- Robbie's to the cabinabout 6 hrs by van
Drive times are rough estimates and depend on traffic and weather.
How much fun?An unreasonable amount
Santa's Workshop, cabin edition
The living room turns into a full-on elf operation. We'll run a family gift exchange, wrap presents assembly-line style, decorate cookies, and hand out awards for the most questionable wrapping job.
Snow days, all day
Hit the slopes on skis or a snowboard, then keep it going with sledding races, snowball wars, and snowman contests. A hot cocoa bar will be waiting inside when your fingers stop working. Pro-level moves are optional.
A visit from the big man
Santa is expected to stop by the cabin, and Robbie (Head Elf) is personally handling the arrangements. The kids get their photos, the adults get their photos, and yes, everyone sits on the lap.
Also on the list
- Ugly sweater night
- Christmas Eve feast
- Carols by the fire
- Holiday movie marathon
- Board game tournament
- Gingerbread cabin build-off
- The giant family photo
- Christmas morning together
The big swingOperation: Get Mariah
It wouldn't be a grand Christmas without the Queen of Christmas herself. So we're going to try to get Mariah Carey to the party.
Is it a long shot? Absolutely. Are we trying anyway? You bet. If it happens, you'll want to be there. If it doesn't, we'll still be belting her Christmas classic at full volume around the fire.
- Status
- Working on it
- Odds
- Festive
- Backup plan
- Karaoke
Getting thereWhat happens next
Planning is still in the works. Here's how it'll come together.
Save the season
Keep late December 2026 open. Exact dates get announced as soon as the cabin is locked in.
Tell Robbie you're coming
The headcount decides how big a cabin (and how many vans) we book. Email grandfamilychristmas@gmail.com with who's coming from your side of the family.
Meet at Robbie's
Get yourself to Robbie's place in San Diego, whether you're coming from Arizona, Modesto, or beyond. From there, we all ride up to the cabin together in vans.
Pack for real snow
Warm layers, waterproof boots, gloves, a beanie, and your ugliest Christmas sweater.
Show up and celebrate
Walk in, grab a cocoa, and get ready for the best family Christmas yet.