Handing down time-honored family traditions are what makes the holidays extra special. When you think of your childhood most often the fondest memories are those of the holidays and family traditions. They are rooted in our heritage and help us celebrate and remember times past.
Traditions are special. And they can be anything we want them to be which is why they are so much fun. From holiday baking with grandma to picking out a fresh X-mas tree to binge watching your favorite Christmas movies, traditions are made to bring us together. Whether you adopt a cultural tradition from a different country or put a new twist on an old one, it’s ok to revamp them. And mix in a few new traditions too. If you’re in need of some ideas to get you get you all warm and fuzzy, we’ve got some inspiration to help you create new memories and lifelong traditions.
Attend a Local Holiday Community Event
Local communities fill their calendars with free holiday events as early as November that continue well into the Christmas season. From tree lighting ceremonies, parades, Christmas concerts and holiday light displays, you’re sure to find a yearly event the entire family will enjoy. You’ll also find other activities too, like photos with Santa and Christmas story time at the local library. Or, create your own family community event by taking a holiday lights walking tour of your own neighborhood. Preplanning a route will help you stay on course. Finish the evening with everyone sharing their favorite light display.
Celebrate the Season with Food
The possibilities here are endless. From paying homage to your grandmother by making her exclusive cookie recipe to organizing and participating in a Tamalada, food is front and center at the holidays. Plus, you can also make food the sole purpose of a family or neighborhood get-together. An annual cookie exchange is one way to get family and friends together. While having a DIY Gingerbread-Making House event with your kids is an awesome way to entertain them during Christmas break. It’s something they’ll look forward to for years to come. And hopefully pass the tradition down to their kids someday.
Create a DIY Countdown to Christmas Calendar
There are many advent calendars on the market, however customizing your own family one makes it magical. While it may be a little late for 2020, Country Living’s 44 Best Advent Calendar Ideas to Help Countdown to Christmas will help you get a head start on next year’s. The kids will have a great time unveiling each day’s surprise in addition to adding all of their special little touches. Starting this project in early November will have you finished and ready to go by December. If you don’t have time to make your own, store-bought ones are available in a variety of themes.
Decorate a Tree for a Relative, Friend or Neighbor
This may sound like it’s just another holiday tradition that everyone does. But this year, in addition to decorating your own tree, decorate an elderly relative, friend, or neighbor’s tree. It’s a gift from the heart and one they’re sure to appreciate. It will not only lift their spirits but we’re sure it will lift yours too.
Give Back to Your Community
There are so many great ways to get involved in your local community like participating in a food drive and donating to the Blue Santa Program. Adopting a family in need, organizing a coat drive, or creating Christmas cards for military service personnel are other ways to spread cheer. The deadline for this year’s Operation Christmas Cards for Troops Overseas has closed. However, you can participate in their Christmas in July program by checking their Facebook page in May for all the details. Also, every December 19 Wreaths across America honors fallen soldiers at 2,100 locations in the U.S. by placing a wreath on their graves. It’s not too late to make a donation or volunteer.
Make Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix Gifts
There’s nothing quite like a homemade cup of hot chocolate. The real deal is made with a variety of handy and inexpensive ingredients then is added to real milk. The end result is a warm, velvety, and smooth holiday treat that you and your family can make for gifts. A festive container and unique gift wrappings take it a step above. Friends and relatives will love it. Gemma’s Bigger Bolder Baking has an easy to follow Hot Chocolate Mix recipe even the kids can do. Remember, to make a few extra batches to store in the pantry for those cold winter nights. And bring along with you on your holiday lighting tour.
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