Unique Christmas family traditions nobody else is doing… yet

Who says traditions have to be traditional? Here are a few ideas for new Christmas family traditions you can start this year.

Why start a new Christmas family tradition?

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More than just trying something new, it’s about creating lasting memories with your loved ones. Traditions can teach your kids the importance of togetherness, kindness, and the joy of celebration. Creating something new together can make each Christmas uniquely memorable.

Unique traditions from around the world

In Iceland, the tradition of Jólabókaflóðið (pronounced YO-la-bok-a-flothe) or “Christmas flood of books” happens on Christmas Eve, when people exchange books and spend the night reading. In Japan, many families celebrate primarily on Christmas Eve, often with fried chicken and other chicken dishes for the traditional meal.

Take inspiration from global traditions or your own ancestors and incorporate them into your family holiday celebrations. Or…

Create your own holiday family traditions

Here are some unique traditional ideas you can start with your family this Christmas:

1. The “giving mitten:” Have everyone write small notes on what they're thankful for this holiday season. Gather the notes in a mitten and read them out loud together.

2. Holiday library trip: Make an annual visit to the library. Pick out holiday-themed books to read together as a family.

3. “Christmas Around the World” dinner: Each year, pick a different country and cook a traditional Christmas meal from that place. It's a fun, delicious way to learn about different cultures.

4. Reverse advent calendar: Rather than getting a treat every day, put one non-perishable food item into a box each day of December. On Christmas Eve, donate the box to a local food bank. It's a meaningful way to give back during the holiday season.

5. Christmas movie Bingo: Create a bingo card with common themes found in holiday movies (a snowball fight, someone saying "Ho Ho Ho", or a mistletoe kiss). Watch a few holiday films and see who can fill their card first.

6. Memory ornaments: Have each family member choose a memorable moment from the past year. Write it on a slip of paper, place it inside a clear ornament, and hang it on the tree. Over time, you'll have a collection of cherished memories.

The best part about traditions is making them your own. Get creative! Start new holiday family traditions that reflect your family’s personalities and values. 

Ho-ho-hop on over to the Greenlight Learning Center for more insights and inspiration.