Christmas is the time of year where most people bring out their special traditions. A survey was put out to ask the students of Liberty High School what their special Christmas traditions were. Christmas traditions weave together memories, culture, and family, creating a season that feels timeless and deeply personal. From the glow of festive lights to the familiar scent of holiday treats, each tradition carries a story passed down through generations or created in the moment. Around the world, people celebrate in unique ways, yet the heart of the holiday remains the same: connection, joy, and the spirit of togetherness.
Making cranberry and popcorn strings has always been one of the most charming and nostalgic Christmas traditions for people such as junior Travis Moyer and his family.. There’s something special about gathering around a bowl of freshly popped popcorn, a pile of bright red cranberries, and a needle and thread, turning simple ingredients into handmade garland. The slow, careful process sparks conversation, laughter, and a sense of togetherness, while the finished strands bring a warm, homespun touch to the tree. It’s a tradition that blends creativity with connection, reminding us to slow down and enjoy the moments that make the holiday season truly magical.
Along with the cranberry and popcorn strings, another amazing Christmas tradition is making Christmas cookies. Making Christmas cookies has always been one of the sweetest holiday traditions for many families, one of them being senior Katie Crile’s. The whole kitchen fills with warm, sugary smells as dough gets rolled out, cookie cutters scatter across the counter, and sprinkles somehow end up everywhere. It’s the time for laughter, music, and sharing stories while waiting for trays to come out golden and perfect. Whether it’s decorating gingerbread men or icing sugar cookies in red and green, the simple act of baking together brings everyone closer and makes the holiday season feel extra magical.
Besides making Christmas cookies, another fun and exciting Christmas is opening one present the day before Christmas. Many families, like senior Remy Pena’s family, enjoy this exciting Christmas tradition. Opening one special gift on Christmas Eve is a tradition that adds an extra sparkle to the holiday. All day, the excitement builds until it’s finally time to gather around the tree and choose that one present waiting to be unwrapped. The moment is filled with laughter, curiosity, and the soft glow of Christmas lights, making it feel like a sneak peak into the magic of the next morning. Whether it’s something small, sentimental, or completely unexpected, that Christmas Eve gift creates memories that make the season feel even more special.
Another special tradition during Christmas is opening an advent calendar. Opening an advent calendar each day in December is a Christmas tradition that builds excitement all month long. Every morning comes with a small thrill of finding the next number, lifting the little door, and discovering the surprise hidden inside. Whether it’s chocolate, a tiny trinket, or a sweet message, each day’s reveal feels like a countdown to the joy of Christmas Day. The routine becomes a festive ritual that adds a bit of magic to everyday life, making the whole season feel more meaningful and full of anticipation.
Along with opening an advent calendar there is another tradition that involves hiding an elf. The Elf on the Shelf has become a playful Christmas tradition that brings imagination and excitement into the holiday season. Each night, the elf “flies” back to the North Pole to report to Santa, and every morning it returns in a brand-new spot, waiting to be discovered. Kids wake up eager to search the house, wondering what silly pose or surprise the elf has created next. From hiding in the Christmas tree to sneaking snacks, the elf’s adventures add a sense of magic and mystery that makes December feel even more special.
Christmas traditions, whether big or small, are what make the season feel truly magical. From the treats we bake to the memories we create, each tradition carries a sense of warmth, connection, and joy that lasts far beyond December. These moments remind us of the importance of family, togetherness, and celebrating the little things that bring us closer. No matter how each household chooses to honor the holiday, the spirit behind these traditions is the same, sharing love, making memories, and keeping the magic of Christmas alive year after year.
