December 6th Christmas Countdown: 5 Holiday Traditions
That Make Christmas Extra Special
Day 6 is about the rituals that carry a season. The small, repeatable moments are what make December feel like Christmas, not the to do list.
I start with the tree. Unpacking the ornament box is a built in story hour; each piece is a snapshot from another year. A few strands of twinkle lights and the whole room softens.
Then it is movie night. We always end up quoting lines from National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. The laughter turns a regular weeknight into a memory.
And nothing tops the joy of kids tearing into gifts. Those bright eyes and squeals remind us what we are really celebrating: generosity, wonder, and being together.
The other anchors matter too: baking a simple batch of cookies, singing along to our favorite songs, or bundling up for a slow winter drive to see the neighborhood lights. None of it has to be elaborate. Choose a couple, put them on the calendar, and let them do their quiet work: connecting your people and slowing the month to a pace you can savor.
1. Decorating the Christmas Tree
The centerpiece of holiday décor, the Christmas tree holds memories in every ornament. Whether you prefer a real tree or an artificial one, the act of gathering with loved ones to hang ornaments, drape garlands, and place a star or angel on top creates cherished moments. Don’t forget the twinkling lights that bring a little extra sparkle to your home!
Pro Tip: Make it a tradition to add one new ornament every year that represents a special memory.
2. Baking Holiday Treats
Nothing fills a home with holiday cheer like the smell of cookies fresh out of the oven. From gingerbread men to sugar cookies decorated with frosting and sprinkles, baking together as a family is as sweet as the treats themselves. Not to mention, these goodies make perfect gifts for neighbors and friends!
Must-Try Recipe: Whip up a batch of peppermint bark or classic shortbread for an easy crowd-pleaser.
3. Watching Christmas Movies
What’s cozier than snuggling under a blanket, sipping hot cocoa, and watching your favorite Christmas classics? Whether it’s the heartwarming story of It’s a Wonderful Life or the laugh-out-loud antics of Home Alone, holiday movies bring everyone together and keep the festive spirit alive.
Family Idea: Plan a Christmas movie marathon complete with popcorn and matching pajamas.
4. Exchanging Gifts
The joy of giving is at the heart of Christmas. Picking out thoughtful presents for loved ones, wrapping them with care, and seeing their smiles as they open your gift is pure magic. Many families also enjoy secret Santa or white elephant exchanges for added fun!
Meaningful Twist: Try incorporating homemade gifts or charity donations into your gift-giving tradition.
5. Singing Christmas Carols
Whether it’s door-to-door caroling or a sing-along in your living room, Christmas songs spread joy like nothing else. Classics like “Jingle Bells” and “Silent Night” remind us of the season's beauty and wonder. Even if you’re not musically inclined, the spirit of caroling is all about togetherness.
Bonus Idea: Host a karaoke night with a playlist of holiday favorites.
Christmas traditions bring us closer to the ones we love and help us focus on what truly matters during the holiday season. What are your favorite traditions? Share them below to spread the festive cheer!
Stay tuned for more Christmas joy tomorrow as we count down to the big day!
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