Julie Hance’s Christmas Magic
When my oldest son was 2 years old, he was so frustrated because he couldn’t read the nametags on the presents to see which ones were for him, so I unwrapped all his presents and rewrapped them in green paper with big, red stockings … he was thrilled! Now every year I wrap each person’s presents in their own special wrapping paper. It means so much to me because it came about organically and it is unique to our family. In the weeks before Christmas, even my grown children will spot “their paper” under the tree.
Aaliyah Wilson’s Games for Grandpa
I love to make French toast, eggs, and bacon/sausage for breakfast for the family on Christmas morning. Once breakfast is served and presents are opened, I have all of my siblings sit at the kitchen table and we play a board or card game. We lost our grandfather, Perry, in 2012 on Christmas Eve, and we were all very close to him. After his passing, Christmas became hard to enjoy for me so to keep the spirit, I bought a game called Speak Out … we laughed all day playing this game! I decided from that point on, I would continue buying games that would bring us together. This has become the highlight of Christmas for us every year.
Bettina Wood’s Authentic Advent
My favorite family tradition for the holidays is making homemade Advent calendars for my kids. The Advent season in Germany is very special and calming, and it was important to me to keep some traditions from my upbringing alive. Advent calendars have always been one of my favorite parts of the season since childhood. While Advent calendars have gained popularity in the U.S. over the past decade, for me, they are much more than a trend, they are tradition, memories, and joy. My children have always had a fill-it-yourself, homemade calendar, which I put up the night before December 1st. For the past ten years, I’ve hung feather cloud calendars that I made myself. Even though my kids are not so little anymore, they still love them and eagerly look forward to them each year. I know this is a tradition they will carry on themselves.
Safe Harbor Peninsula Yacht Club’s Santa Brunch
Every holiday season, the Safe Harbor Peninsula Yacht Club transforms into a festive wonderland for one of our most cherished traditions: Santa Brunch! Members and their families gather to celebrate the spirit of the season with a joyful morning of delicious food, laughter, and holiday magic. Mr. and Mrs. Claus make a special appearance, delighting children with warm hugs, cheerful conversations, and photo opportunities that become treasured keepsakes. What makes this event even more special is its pet-friendly twist! Guests are invited to arrive early and bring their furry companions to meet Santa, too, because holiday memories aren’t just for humans! With the Club beautifully decorated and the scent of seasonal favorites filling the air, Santa Brunch is more than just a meal, it’s a heartwarming experience that brings our community together in celebration and joy.
