The winter holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with family, joy, and cherished traditions that make the season sparkle. Over the years, our family has created a collection of Christmas customs that we look forward to every December. These traditions bring us closer together, remind us of the true spirit of the season, and create lasting memories. Here are our favorite Christmas traditions that make our holiday season extra special.
Experiencing the Magic of A Christmas Carol at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta
One of our favorite ways to kick off the holiday season is to visit the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia, to see their annual production of A Christmas Carol. This classic story of redemption and goodwill never fails to inspire us. The incredible performances, stunning costumes, and beautiful set design transport us into Charles Dickens’ timeless tale.
There’s something truly magical about experiencing live theater during the holidays. The production reminds us of the importance of kindness, gratitude, and generosity—values that align perfectly with the season. Watching Ebenezer Scrooge transform from miser to philanthropist is a tradition we eagerly anticipate each year.
Black Friday Tree Decorating Party
While many people hit the stores for Black Friday sales, we prefer to spend the day at home kicking off the Christmas season with our own tradition: decorating the Christmas tree. It’s a festive and heartwarming way to transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas.
Our tree-decorating ritual includes unpacking boxes of treasured ornaments, each with its own story. As we hang them on the tree, we’re serenaded by classic Christmas tunes that instantly lift our spirits. Everyone has a mug of hot chocolate in hand, complete with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The house fills with the scent of evergreen, the sound of laughter, and the magic of togetherness.
Watching Charlie Brown Christmas and Other Holiday Favorites
There’s no Christmas season without cozy movie nights featuring our favorite holiday classics. A Charlie Brown Christmas holds a special place in our hearts with its heartfelt message and timeless charm. Watching Charlie Brown discover the true meaning of Christmas is like visiting an old friend each year.
Other family favorites include Tom & Jerry’s Nutcracker Christmas, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman and a mix of other nostalgic specials that bring us joy. We gather on the couch, wrapped in blankets, with bowls of popcorn and mugs of hot cocoa. These movie nights have become a cherished way to wind down during the busy holiday season.
Related Read: The Best Crockpot Hot Chocolate Recipe For Family Gatherings
Baking a Cake for Jesus’s Birthday
Amid the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, we always focus on the true meaning of Christmas: the celebration of Jesus’s birth. Our family’s most meaningful tradition is baking a birthday cake for Jesus.
On Christmas Day, we light candles on the cake and sing “Happy Birthday” to Jesus. It’s a simple yet profound way to remind ourselves of the reason for the season and to teach our children about the life, death and resurrection of our Savior.
Driving Through Neighborhoods to See Christmas Lights
One of the most magical experiences of the holiday season is driving through neighborhoods adorned with twinkling Christmas lights. After dinner, we bundle up, make hot chocolate in travel mugs, and pile into the car for an evening of light-gazing.
Every year, we’re amazed by the creativity and effort our neighbors put into their displays. From simple, elegant string lights to elaborate, synchronized music-and-light shows, the sights never fail to fill us with awe. We take our time, listening to Christmas music and calling out our favorite displays. This tradition reminds us of the beauty and joy that’s all around us during the holidays.
Counting Down with an Advent Calendar
For my daughter, the advent calendar is a highlight of the season. Each day in December, she eagerly opens a tiny door to discover a surprise waiting inside. Whether it’s a piece of chocolate, a small trinket, or a meaningful activity, the advent calendar builds anticipation for Christmas Day.
It’s a tradition that adds a little extra joy to every morning. Beyond the fun surprises, the advent calendar serves as a daily reminder of the season’s excitement and encourages us to savor each day leading up to Christmas.
Baking Family Christmas Cookies
Another tradition my daughter and I cherish is pulling out our favorite family Christmas cookie recipes, some of which have been handed down through generations. Together, we measure, mix, and bake, filling the house with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies. Decorating them is only half the fun—once the cookies are ready, we package them up and share them with friends and neighbors. It’s our way of spreading holiday cheer and connecting with our community, one delicious treat at a time.
Opening One Present on Christmas Eve
The excitement of Christmas morning can be hard to contain, so we’ve created a tradition to give everyone a little taste of the fun the night before. On Christmas Eve, each family member gets to open one present.
It’s always a special moment, whether new pajamas, a heartfelt gift, or a small toy. This tradition helps set the tone for the following day—it’s not about how many gifts we receive but about the joy of giving and spending time together.
The Christmas Pickle Hunt
One of our quirkiest and most beloved traditions is hiding the Christmas pickle ornament on the tree. On Christmas morning, before any presents are opened, the hunt begins. Whoever finds the pickle first earns the honor of opening the first gift.
This playful tradition adds extra excitement to Christmas morning and has become a favorite for everyone in our family. It’s a fun way to start the day, creating laughter and friendly competition.
Why Traditions Matter
These traditions are more than just activities; they’re the heart and soul of our holiday celebrations. They remind us of what truly matters: spending time with loved ones, sharing joy, and celebrating the reason for the season- Jesus.
Each year, as we revisit these traditions, we’re reminded of the memories we’ve created and the love that binds us as a family. These moments—not the gifts or the hustle—make Christmas truly magical.
As Christmas approaches, we hope our traditions inspire you to reflect on your own or start new ones. From our family to yours, may your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments that last a lifetime.
Xoxo,
Kelly
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