Our Holiday Traditions
Traditions Make Our Holidays Extra Magical
The holidays are officially here, and we’re ready to spill all the festive magic that makes them special in each of our families. From early tree decorating and sprinkle-loaded cookies to magical elves, each of us has little rituals that make the season feel extra cozy, joyful, and sometimes a little messy (in the best way). Grab a mug of cocoa, settle in, and join us as we share the traditions that make our holidays truly unforgettable…maybe you’ll even find a new one to try yourself!
Early-Bird Holiday Spirit
Jess kicks off the holiday season early, like, November 1 early, with the tree going up and staying bright well past the holiday weekend. She’s all about the little joys that make the holidays feel extra cozy: decorating cookies with all the sprinkles, opening stockings before anything else, and indulging in sweet, gooey cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning. For her, it’s the rituals that make the season feel magical from start to finish.
The Foodie Oriented Festivities
Holly’s family makes the night before the big day extra fun (and delicious) with a build-your-own pizza tradition—everyone loading up their favorite toppings before settling in for the real treat: their beloved “Santa’s Hat” float. It’s a festive blend of cherry ice cream, ginger ale, whipped cream, red sprinkles, and a cherry on top. Simple, sweet, and the perfect way to kick off the celebrations together.
Pickles, PJ’s, and “Snacky” Dinners
Calla grew up with the quirky “pickle on the tree” tradition. 🥒 Her parents would hide a pickle ornament the night before, and she and her brother would race to find it the next morning. Whoever spotted it first won a prize. Of course, Calla won so many years in a row that her brother eventually refused to play. Mornings also came with another sweet ritual: her parents gifting her and her brother a new ornament that reflected something meaningful from that year, a tradition she hopes to continue with her own kids. And one of her coziest memories? Matching pajamas and what her family lovingly called a “snacky dinner.” Instead of a big meal for their little family of four, her mom put out a charcuterie-style spread, saving the heavier cooking for extended family gatherings. Those comfy, low-key evenings remain some of Calla’s favorites.
Dutch Elf Calendar Countdown
Emily’s favorite part of the season started on December 1st with the family’s “Elf Calendar,” a Dutch tradition. Each day had a pocket with a treat, activity, or note, and her mom (or the elves) often went above and beyond, adding extra surprises on the counter. Now that Emily has her own home, the tradition has been passed down to her, and she can’t wait to share the same joy and excitement with her future kids.
Making the Season Sparkle
Alex loves starting the season by shopping for new tree ornaments, with her family so she can one day pass down to her kids so they’ll have their own collection. Decorating the tree is a labor of love, with 2,000+ lights carefully strung. The magical elves add their own charm: predating the Elf on the Shelf craze, they mysteriously move around the house during the week leading up to the big day, keeping everyone on their toes and adding an extra sprinkle of wonder to the season.
Topped with Godzilla
Alexandra adds her own playful twist to the season every year. She is always gifted matching(ish) shirts, the family tree always gets topped with Godzilla, and oranges make a sweet appearance in their stockings. Alexandra also loves gifting homemade pies, sharing a little extra warmth and flavor with family and friends. These fun, thoughtful rituals make the season uniquely theirs.
✨ Wishing You a Season Full of Joy
We hope your season is filled with all the little rituals, cozy moments, and sweet surprises that make it special. Whether you’re decking the halls, baking treats, or just enjoying time with the people you love, may your holidays be full of joy, laughter, and memories that last a lifetime. Celebrate your traditions, big, small, or delightfully quirky, and soak in every festive moment!
