The holiday season is my favorite time of year. There’s something magical about the twinkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer that fills the air. Even though the holidays can be busy, I try to take some time to relax and enjoy this wonderful season.
One of my favorite holiday traditions is baking cookies. Every year, I bake several dozen cookies to give to family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Baking cookies takes time and effort, but seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they receive a plate of homemade treats makes it all worthwhile. My go-to holiday cookie recipes include classic sugar cookies decorated with colorful frosting and sprinkles, rich chocolate crinkles dusted with powdered sugar, and spicy gingerbread men. The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills my home and gets me into the holiday spirit.
In addition to baking, I enjoy driving around neighborhoods in my area to look at holiday light displays. People really go all out with elaborate lawn decorations synced to music. The colorful, flashing lights never fail to delight my inner child. I’ll bundle up with a thermos of hot apple cider, play festive tunes, and soak in the holiday magic.
The holidays are also a great time to catch up with family and friends. Whether it’s gathering around the Christmas tree to open gifts or ringing in the new year with a champagne toast, I cherish these special moments that bring loved ones together. The holidays remind us to pause and appreciate each other amidst the hustle and bustle of life.
While the holidays are merry and bright, it’s important not to get too caught up in commercialism and stress. As the popular slogan goes, “It’s okay to say no.” Don’t feel obligated to attend every party or buy elaborate gifts that strain your budget – do only what brings you joy! Protect your health as well. Make sure to eat balanced meals, exercise, and get enough sleep during the hectic holiday season.
My top tip for enjoying the holidays to the fullest is to focus on spending meaningful time with your loved ones. At the end of the day, relationships are so much more important than elaborately decorated trees, stacks of gifts, and endless Christmas cookie tins. Make memories that you’ll cherish for years to come.
Holidays to Celebrate All Year Long
The calendar is filled with fun holidays that add excitement to the year. Whether celebrating love, faith, giving thanks, or spooky frights, holidays provide perfect opportunities for making memories with family, friends, and significant others. Here are some of my favorite holidays and how I like to celebrate them:
Valentine’s Day (February 14): Ah, the day of romance and love! I usually celebrate by having a nice dinner out at a quiet restaurant with my special someone. Valentine treats like chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne make appearances too. I also like to celebrate love in my life more broadly by exchanging thoughtful cards and small gifts with close friends and relatives.
Easter (Late March/April): Easter brings thoughts of budding springtime, baby animals, and new beginnings. My family loves an old-fashioned Easter egg hunt with colorful baskets and plenty of jelly beans and chocolate bunnies as prizes. A hearty Easter dinner featuring glazed ham, buttery mashed potatoes, and fresh veggies balances out the sweetness. Easter is a time to reflect on growth and renewal.
Fourth of July (July 4): Fire up the BBQ, break out the red, white and blue decorations – it’s Independence Day! Every 4th of July, my community hosts an awesome fireworks show set to patriotic music. The dazzling colors and booming explosions in the sky fill me with awe and pride for my country. After fireworks, chilling out with some cold lemonade and classic summer treats like watermelon and ice pops hits just right.
Halloween (October 31): Costumes, candy, spookiness – oh my! Ever since childhood, I’ve adored Halloween’s playful scariness and excuse to dress up. My friends and I have an annual tradition of doing horror movie marathons fueled by bowls of popcorn and candy while we debate things like who was the best movie scream queen. Afterwards, we’ll walk our neighborhood routes enjoying the creative outdoor decorations and seeing the cute kids in their costumes.
Thanksgiving (Fourth Thursday in November): When it comes to holidays, Thanksgiving Dinner takes the cake as my favorite meal of the year! After prepping some dishes in advance, I wake up early Thanksgiving morning to slide the turkey in the oven and get lost in the comforting aroma of roast turkey. Mouthwatering sides like cornbread stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream round out this abundant, cozy feast shared with precious company. Gratitude overflows.
Which holidays stand out to you most? Do you have any special traditions for celebrating? Share your favorite holiday memories and plans below!