Part 2 of 3 (Did you miss part 1? Click here to catch up: https://bit.ly/2KtlrKY)
See Who Can Find the Pickle Ornament
While this quirky custom, sometimes called Weihnachtsgurke, supposedly has German origins, it’s more likely an American Midwest tradition, according to The New York Times. What’s the significance of this ornament? Traditionalists say the first child to find the pickle Christmas ornament gets the first present, an extra present, or the job of handing out the presents, plus good fortune in the year to come.
Get Creative With Elf on the Shelf
To the dismay of parents everywhere, this modern Christmas tradition remains wildly popular with kids. Though undeniably fun for little ones, it’s a bit of work for moms and/or dads, who are encouraged to come up with creative ways to stage their family’s elf each night. The upside? Your elf watches over the little one’s behavior, reporting back to Santa, so he can craft his naughty and nice list.
Participate in a Toy Drive
“Adopting” a child through a local nonprofit organization, such as Toys for Tots, is another way to incorporate a charitable component to the holiday. In most cases, they’ll provide a small wish list, then you do the shopping and drop off wrapped presents at a pre-determined location.
Sip Mulled Wine
For an extra-special holiday treat, whip up this popular European winter beverage. It’s essentially a warm red wine, flavored with spices like cinnamon and clove.
Watch a Tree Lighting
Though Christmas trees were originally illuminated with candles, the tradition poses a serious fire hazard. As such, today’s modern trees are adorned with much safer string lights (either white or multi-colored, depending on personal preference). According to Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas, this adaption became popular shortly after the advent of the lightbulb, when one of Thomas Edison’s employees decided to apply their invention to his own holiday tree.
Tour Neighborhood Light Displays
Outdoor light displays first gained traction in the years following World War II, when greater production made them more affordable and accessible to the masses, according to Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas. Suddenly, there were illuminated Christmas displays both indoors and out, complete with lighted ornaments, bubble lights, and even lighted Santas. In some locales, these Christmas displays have really exploded. For a truly unique experience, see if you can find a local spot that’s synced their lights with popular Christmas ballads.
Go Caroling
According to Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas, “caroling” is an ancient word that refers to dancing or singing songs of praise and happiness. In the Dark Ages, it was a year-round practice, but later fell out of favor, since it was considered a pagan celebration. It wasn’t until the early 16th century when Martin Luther embraced caroling that it became a common practice during the Christmas season. This is when tunes that we still sing today, like Silent Night, were first composed. If you’re feeling inspired, don’t just limit yourself to your immediate neighborhood—turn up somewhere that could really use an extra dose of holiday cheer, like outside of a hospital, for example (but check whether they’re welcoming outside carolers first).
Check back on Friday for part 3 of this blog – Creating new Christmas Traditions
