Tattered stockings line the fireplace mantle, houses are doused in an unhealthy amount of twinkling lights, a large tree resides in the center of the room, slightly lopsided and covered in baubles, and eggnog is chilling in the refrigerator. It can only mean one thing; the Christmas season has arrived yet again. For many students, the holidays are not only a break from the strenuous school schedule, but a time to gather with family and participate in holiday traditions.
“Every year, I get together with my family to decorate the Christmas tree and eat a big dinner. We also set up my mom’s collection of wooden rocking horses. We’ve had this tradition for as long as I remember and it really makes me feel in the Christmas spirit,” said junior Michael Taylor.
From Black Friday shopping to baking Christmas cookies for Santa, everyone has their own customs. Passed on from generation to generation, some traditions will withstand for many years to come.
“I would like to carry on my families’ traditions when I get older, and maybe even make some new ones. My friends and I have a tradition of taking a picture with Santa at the mall. It makes me feel young again,” Taylor said.
Holiday traditions reveal what the Christmas season is all about; spending time with the ones you love. Traditions also bring on a sense of happiness and could become your most cherished memories. So hang up that mistletoe and start mailing Christmas cards, this holiday season is in full swing.