Holiday Traditions with Family

A tradition is the handing down of statements, beliefs, legends, customs, information, etc. from generation to generation, especially by word of mouth or practice. Holiday traditions bring people, friends, and families together and ignite a spark inside that brings the feeling of home to your heart. There’s nothing quite like the warmth of hot cocoa by the fire on a chilly winter night, or sharing a meal with those you hold close every year. While we love and cherish age-old holiday traditions, new family members, different homes, and changing circumstances mean that new traditions are ready to blossom. 

This year, in the spirit of change, we invite and encourage you to try a new family Christmas tradition. Whether you choose to revise an old holiday family tradition into a new one or you start from scratch this season, there are plenty of fun activities you can do to create something fresh and fun to look forward to year after year. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with reinventing old holiday traditions with a new flair or spin, too! Here are some ideas to get you on your way to your next favorite family holiday tradition, whether you choose to share it with friends and family, or decide to make a new Christmas tradition for yourself! 

Holiday Tradition #1 - Breakfast for Dinner 

Who says holiday dinners have to be the same, traditional meals we eat every year? Planning something new allows you and your guests to explore new recipes and bring something fun to the table. For a fun non-traditional holiday dinner, switch it up and plan to have breakfast for dinner. Pancakes, bacon, and eggs are at the top of the list for favorites, but biscuits and casseroles are just as good for dinner as they are for breakfast too! If breakfast for dinner is a bit too risqué for your family, try a holiday brunch instead. You can still enjoy the comfort of family and friends around a table and the sweet, sugary smell of maple syrup, as well as your traditional holiday dinner. What better way to truly get excited for the holidays than by appreciating all of the comforts of a home-cooked meal? 

New Christmas Tradition #2 - Holiday Craft Night 

Bust out the glitter, paint, and popsicle sticks and get ready for an evening of fun with a creative craft night! Ideal for kids and adults alike, you can choose a variety of craft projects to start like carving pumpkins, making holiday wreaths, painting a holiday scene, or homemade ornaments. While it may seem daunting, you might be surprised at how few materials are needed to start one of these craft projects. You’ll only need a few art supplies and things you might already have around the house. Once you have all of your supplies, gather around a craft table or cover the dining room table with plastic to keep it from getting damaged, and get started. Craft nights are fun because everyone can add their unique flair to the project! As a bonus, the conversation, laughter, and joy that comes from creating something one-of-a-kind with your loved ones will be sure to follow your amazing creation.

New Holiday Tradition #3 - Christmas Door Décor Contest

A beautiful front door is a staple to any truly incredible home design. Why not try out a new holiday tradition like a Christmas door décor contest that prepares your home for guests and family, while also engaging in a little friendly competition? Beautiful wreaths, ribbon, lights, foliage, and décor are just a few of the props you can use to dress up your front door and win the hearts of your family, friends, and the judge of the competition! You can also make your own décor during craft night to make it into a family-friendly event. Choose a theme like a winter wonderland or a fall festival, and your door is sure to look beautiful for you to enjoy during the holidays. 

Family Holiday Tradition #4 -Decorate with Fond Memories 

One thing that you probably already have in your home is printed photographs from the past. This year, look through old photos that might be buried in closets, drawers, or scrapbooks to create a holiday design you love. Exchange photos with family or friends that you might not be able to visit, and use them to decorate your Christmas tree by using clothespins to hang them. You can also take these photos and place them on your mantle, or replace photos in frames for a change of scenery. You’ll smile seeing the memories you’ve made and as an added bonus, it’ll add a touch of warmth and charm to your Christmas décor. 

Christmas Tradition #5 - Christmas Cookie Decorating 

A beautiful Christmas cookie comes in many shapes and sizes, thanks to the vast number of cookie cutters available on the market. Trees, stars, candy canes, leaves, and ornaments are just a few of the shapes you can choose from. Or, stick with a simple round cookie and decorate it with colored icing. No matter what you decide to do, cookie decorating is a great way to get the whole family involved. Kids, adults, and guests can all choose a cookie they’d like to make and decorate it any way they want! What’s even better about this fun, new tradition is that everyone can eat their cookies once they’re finished or take them home for a warm memory.

We invite you to try something new this holiday season, like a crazy craft night or a door décor contest, and we hope that this new tradition also brings a beautiful, inspiring season full of love and happiness to your home! With these fresh, new ideas, you’ll be sure to bring the love of both the holidays and family members together in ways that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. And, don’t forget what traditions are truly about, quality time with friends, family, and loved ones, moments you’ll cherish forever, and the warmth and genuine comfort of home.