Are you thinking of incorporating some Christmas traditions to celebrate with your family? You’ve come to the right place, as I’m all about celebrating family and traditions.
As a mother of four, the holiday season is not just about festive decorations and exchanging gifts; it’s about creating lasting memories and traditions that will be cherished for years to come. In our household, Christmas is a magical time filled with joy, laughter, and a host of heartwarming traditions that bring the family together. But we don’t just celebrate Christmas traditions, we also incorporate Christmas Eve traditions as well.
In this article, I’ll share some of our favorite Christmas traditions, hoping to inspire other families to create their own unique celebrations.
1. Deck the Halls Together
The Christmas season officially begins in our home with a day dedicated to decorating the Christmas tree and decking the halls. Each family member has a special ornament, and we take turns placing them on the tree. This tradition not only marks the beginning of the festive season but also provides an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the holiday spirit. The joy on the kids’ faces as they hang their ornaments is priceless and sets the tone for the entire season.
2. Advent Calendar Countdown
To build anticipation and create a sense of excitement, we have an Advent calendar that Madison eagerly looks forward to each December. Whether it’s a traditional calendar with tiny doors to open or a DIY version with daily activities, the countdown to Christmas Day becomes an event in itself. From baking cookies to watching a holiday movie, these daily activities ensure that the holiday spirit is felt throughout the month.
3. Bake and Decorate Christmas Cookies
Nothing says Christmas like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, which is a quintessential part of our Christmas traditions. We set aside a day for a massive cookie-baking session, complete with an array of cookie cutters and colorful icing. While the boys would much rather eat than bake, the girls, who are my bakers, participate in rolling out the dough and decorating the cookies with sprinkles and edible glitter. Not only does this activity result in delicious treats for the family, but it also fosters a sense of togetherness.
4. Pajama Party and Christmas Eve Box
On Christmas Eve, we have a family pajama party where everyone dons their coziest sleepwear. This is also the night when the kids receive a special Christmas Eve box filled with small gifts, such as holiday-themed pajamas, a favorite holiday book, and a festive mug for hot cocoa. The excitement of opening these boxes and spending the evening in cozy pajamas enhances the magic of Christmas Eve. While I do partake of the 3-gift rule, Christmas Eve is a special day in our household and a tradition that started many years ago when we lived in Brooklyn, NY.
5. Attend a Community Christmas Event
While celebrating within the confines of our home is special, we also make it a point to attend community Christmas events. Whether it’s a local tree lighting ceremony, a holiday parade, or a Christmas market, being part of these events creates a sense of community and spreads the joy of the season. It’s an opportunity for the kids to experience the broader festive atmosphere and understand the significance of coming together during the holidays. If the weather isn’t optimal, we sometimes simply drive around the neighborhood, oohing and aahing at the homes that are decorated for the holidays.
6. Handmade Christmas Ornaments
In addition to the store-bought ornaments that adorn our tree, we have a tradition of creating handmade ornaments as a family. Whether it’s salt dough ornaments, paper snowflakes, or personalized photo ornaments, the process of crafting them together adds a personal touch to our decorations. These handmade ornaments become treasured keepsakes, reminding us of the love and creativity poured into each one.
7. Christmas Movie Marathon
As Christmas Day approaches, we indulge in a festive movie marathon. From timeless classics to animated favorites, we create a cozy movie-watching corner with blankets and pillows. The kids take turns selecting their favorite films, from The Grinch to Elf, and we spend the day enjoying heartwarming stories that capture the magic of Christmas. This tradition not only provides entertainment but also serves as a bonding experience for the entire family.
8. Letters to Santa
The tradition of writing letters to Santa is a heartwarming way for children to express their wishes and gratitude during the holiday season. While Madison no longer “believes” in Santa, she still enjoys visiting him and having her photo taken. We set aside an afternoon for crafting these letters, complete with drawings and personal messages. When she was younger, we would drop the letters in the mailbox, knowing that Santa would read each one and, hopefully, fulfill their wishes. This tradition instills a sense of wonder and excitement in the days leading up to Christmas.
9. Christmas Morning Breakfast Extravaganza
On Christmas morning, we kick off the day with a special breakfast extravaganza. From festive pancakes to cinnamon rolls shaped like Christmas trees, we indulge in a delicious spread that adds to the joy of the occasion. This leisurely breakfast allows us to savor the moments before diving into the excitement of opening presents. It’s a time for laughter, good food, and the warmth of family togetherness.
10. Give Back as a Family
Amidst the joy and abundance, we emphasize the importance of giving back during the holiday season. Whether it’s volunteering at a local charity, participating in a food drive, or donating toys to those in need, our family engages in activities that promote kindness and generosity. This tradition not only teaches valuable lessons to the kids but also reinforces the spirit of goodwill that defines the true meaning of Christmas.
In Conclusion
Christmas traditions are the threads that weave the fabric of cherished family memories. As a mother, witnessing the excitement and joy on my children’s faces (even the grown ones) during these festive traditions is a gift that surpasses any material present. Whether it’s decorating the tree, baking cookies, or giving back to the community, these traditions create a sense of belonging and warmth that defines the spirit of Christmas in our home. May these ideas inspire your family to embark on their own journey of creating magical and meaningful Christmas traditions that will be treasured for generations to come.
