Meaningful Family Traditions to Start This December

December is a magical time to create cherished family traditions that build connection and joy. Traditions give families something to look forward to and strengthen bonds through shared experiences. Here are fun and easy ideas to inspire meaningful traditions you can start this holiday season. 

1. A Family Gratitude Chain

Cut strips of colorful paper and write one thing each family member is grateful for daily.

Link the strips to form a paper chain that grows throughout December.

On New Year’s Eve, read the gratitude chain together to reflect on the month.

2. DIY Holiday Countdown Calendar

Instead of store-bought advent calendars, create your own.

Include fun activities like baking cookies, a movie night, or crafting ornaments.

This makes every day leading up to the holiday a little more special.

3. Cookie Decorating Night

Dedicate an evening to decorating cookies together.

Let everyone unleash their creativity, and deliver extras to neighbors or friends.

It’s a sweet way to spend quality time and spread joy in the community.

4. Storytime by the Tree

Gather the family around the Christmas tree or fireplace for story time.

Read a holiday-themed book or take turns sharing personal stories from the year.

This tradition can grow with your family, evolving from picture books to heartfelt discussions.

5. Family Pajama Day

Choose a day to wear matching pajamas, enjoy a big breakfast, and stay cozy.

Spend the day playing games, watching movies, or baking treats.

6. Ornament Exchange or Creation

Each family member chooses or crafts an ornament that represents their year.

Add them to the tree and talk about the meaning behind each one.

Over the years, your tree will tell your family’s unique story.

7. Acts of Kindness Advent

Instead of focusing solely on gifts, dedicate each day to an act of kindness.

Ideas include donating toys, helping a neighbor, or writing notes of appreciation.

8. Movie Marathon Night

Pick a night to watch classic holiday movies together with popcorn and hot cocoa.

Create a rotating schedule so everyone gets to pick their favorite.

9. Annual Family Photo

Snap a festive family photo in front of the tree or during a winter outing.

Make it a tradition to display past photos and watch how everyone grows and changes over time.

10. New Year’s Eve Reflection Jar

Decorate a jar and, throughout December, write down favorite memories from the year.

On New Year’s Eve, gather as a family to read and celebrate those moments.

11. Winter Nature Walk

Bundle up for a winter walk and collect natural treasures like pinecones or branches.

Use the finds to create a simple holiday decoration for your home.

12. Family Game Night Extravaganza

Pick a special night to play board games or cards as a family.

Crown the winner with a festive homemade trophy or crown for the season.

Tips for Making Traditions Stick

• Keep it simple: Traditions don’t have to be elaborate to be meaningful.

• Involve everyone: Let all family members have a say in shaping the traditions.

• Be consistent: Repetition each year builds excitement and emotional connection.

Starting new traditions is a wonderful way to make December more meaningful and fun. Over time, these shared moments become the memories your family cherishes most. Let us know your family tradition to add to this list.

Erica Realpe, MA, LMFT

Helping individuals, couples, and families heal and create better relationships. Erica is available in Midland Park and telehealth. Sessions are available in English and Spanish.