5 Traditions You Can Start Now To Make Your Holidays Extra Special
Ask anyone what their family holiday traditions are and it’s likely you’ll get some common answers. Like decorating the tree, lighting the Menorah, baking, and movie nights to name a few. But it’s also fun to start new traditions and add to that familiar mix! As my kids get older, I find they look forward to and appreciate holiday traditions just as much, if not more, in their (teenage) adulthood as they did as children. And, having set traditions to enjoy year after year makes the holidays extra special! You don’t have to go over the top or overthink it…sometimes it’s the simple traditions that are best.
If you’re looking for some super simple holiday decor, our guest contributor Beth Furgerson shares 3 festive ideas here.
Simple & Special Holiday Traditions
#1) Conversation Starter
This one is probably my favorite! When setting the table for your holiday dinner or really any dinner, leave a question/conversation starter on a piece of paper under each plate. Giving each family member or loved one “the stage” for a few minutes is pretty special. It’s funny how making people think about themselves, their answer, and giving them their time to shine, really makes them feel important. You’ll be surprised by what you learn! Here are a few we have used in the past that deviate from the traditional, “What are you thankful for”…but that question is pretty sweet too.
Tell us about a time this year when you were really happy.
What is something we don’t know about you?
What is your favorite holiday memory?
What is the most difficult thing and the best thing about being your age right now?
What makes you feel loved?
What is your favorite thing about your family?
Keep scrolling for more fun traditions you can start right now! Do you have a unique or special holiday tradition you’d like to share? Please leave a note in the comments! To get blog posts (like this one!) delivered directly to your inbox, be sure to sign up for our newsletter here. And, if you’re looking to treat yourself this holiday season, and take care of YOU in the style department, Erin’s Style Made Simple course is now LIVE and will help you find your style mojo. Click here for details.
Happy Holidays!
#2) Family PJs
Matching family PJs is always fun and makes for a great photo op! Matching sets can sometimes be difficult to track down AND comfort is an absolute must. I've tried a few different brands but hands down, in my opinion, Hanna Anderson has the best variety, comfort level, and softness when trying to suit-up the whole fam. Also key...each piece is a separate which is nice if you need different sizing on top and bottom. They also have matching pet pajamas...which just might be the best part. But if your family isn't into it, you can always grab a pair just for you!
I've tried. I really can't make a gingerbread house from scratch AND decorate it all using the same day's brain power and patience. So, we like to cheat with the handy kits. When the kids were younger, it was definitely easier to hold their attention with less baking and more decorating. If the houses seem like too big of a commitment, decorating gingerbread people is just as fun! TIP: You always need extra icing and decorative toppings and just when you think you have enough...you'll need just a little bit more.
The holidays are a great time to give. There are plenty of organizations for donations this time of year, but one that is near and dear to my heart is providing simple necessities to those less fortunate. Making a tradition out of a Giving Project each year means the whole family can get involved. These kits include between 12-48 blankets, gloves, hats and hygiene kits.
Many people love a good game night over the holidays! Each of these games is fairly new to the gaming scene, and gets great reviews! If you and your family love board games, you could always try adding something new to the mix. Have you played any of these? If so, please leave your thoughts in the comments below!
Here's one more idea for a new holiday tradition. Last year I went to a party that was a little different than the standard potluck. The host asked guests to bring a themed food board of any kind. Everyone got SO creative. There was a hot cocoa board, salad board, taco tray, movie night board, food with all the same colors like festive green and red, chili bar, a chocolate board (my personal favorite!), spicy things board (marked w/different heat indicators – one flame, 2 flames, etc.), a donut board...you get the idea. Honestly, it was pretty cool! If you have a large family or friend gathering planned, this would be a fun way to change things up.
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Great fun ideas! 😃
Thank you, Mary! Have a fabulous holiday season 🙂 – Susan