As winter break gets closer, many people begin getting ready for their holiday activities. Some of these activities are very well known, while others are connected to religion, culture, or family traditions. Even though people celebrate in different ways, the holidays often bring everyone together.

Some of the most common traditions include using advent calendars to count down the days until Christmas, opening presents on Christmas morning, and baking cookies with family or friends. These traditions are popular because they are simple, fun, and easy to share with others. Many families repeat these activities every year, which makes them feel special and comforting.

Other traditions are less common or are specific to certain people. When I interviewed our beloved librarian, Mrs. Frayer, she shared a unique tradition. She goes caroling with a band during the holiday season. A fun fact about Mrs. Frayer is that she was also in a band when she was in high school. This makes her tradition even more meaningful, since it connects her past to what she enjoys doing now.

Religion also plays a big role in holiday traditions for many families. A lot of people attend church services together during this time. Mrs. Rothy shared an interesting tradition that her family celebrates, which is having fondue on Christmas. Her family has been doing this for 25 years, which shows how traditions can last for generations, as this one brings her family together to enjoy food and spend time with one another.

Some traditions are based on location and culture. In Texas and other parts of Latin America, there is a tradition called Las Posadas. This celebration takes place from December 16 through December 24. It is a nine-night religious tradition that re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay before Jesus was born. Las Posadas includes processions, singing, prayer, festive food, music, and breaking piñatas. It represents preparation, faith, and community, and it ends on Christmas Eve.

People can also have very unexpected traditions. A friend of mine shared that he works out on Christmas with the Dallas Cowboys in Texas. At first, I thought he was joking, but he showed me a photo to prove it. This shows that traditions do not have to be typical to be meaningful.

As we wrap up this holiday season, it is a great time to think about starting a new tradition or bringing back one that was forgotten. No matter how people celebrate, spending time with family and friends is what truly makes the holidays special.