Eve of the Eve: New Traditions

Maybe you have entered a new life phase and are ready to begin new traditions. Or, perhaps you simply want to add to your current holiday traditions. Having a standing celebration on December 23 is one way to extend your holidays, celebrate with more family and friends, and soak in your magical holiday decor. Creating an eve of the eve tradition embodies a more-the-merrier spirit. Draw inspiration from this list of new traditions you can enjoy this season.

Host a pajama dinner

Whether you use disposable plates, your best china, or something in between, invite friends and neighbors over to enjoy an informal dinner in your Christmas pajamas. Focus on comfortable attire and comfort food, to keep the evening as low-maintenance as possible, while focusing on enjoying each other’s company.

Have a mulled wine tasting party

Fire up the stove and invite friends and family over for a festive mulled wine tasting party. Let several pots with different recipes simmer on the stove and encourage your guests to vote for the cup of cheer they enjoy the most.

Take a holiday lights drive

If you have little ones (or big ones too!), put on the holiday jammies and take a drive around the neighborhood to take in all the holiday lights. Pack your family’s favorite treats, crank up the holiday tunes and enjoy the beautiful neighboring exteriors from the coziness of your car.

Organize a holiday movie marathon

Put the family room or media room to good use by hosting an all-day holiday movie marathon. Send the movie schedule to your family and friends, so they can stop in when they are free to enjoy some much-needed rest and a feel-good holiday flick. Keep the space stocked with popcorn, beverages and any other favorite movie-watching refreshments.

Arrange an outdoor open house with fireplace

'Tis the season for outdoor fireplaces, so make December 23 the standing date of your annual outdoor open house. Keep trays stocked with s’mores ingredients, the outdoor kitchen filled with festive holiday fare, and piles of cozy throws so your guests stay extra warm as they enjoy a beautiful outdoor display and even better company.

Be a local secret Santa

Give back to your local first responders, whom many will be working on December 24 and 25, by delivering envelopes of gift cards to your local coffee shops and restaurants. Consider bringing them to the fire station, police department and hospital as a thank you for keeping the community safe.

Create a gingerbread house contest

Whether it’s a friendly competition or an excuse to gather together, host a gingerbread house contest for children and adults alike. Provide every guest with a gingerbread house, and have a table full of gingerbread house decor. This festive tradition will be one you want to repeat every year.

There’s always room for new traditions if it means having the opportunity to spend more time with cherished family and friends at home. Celebrating the eve of Christmas Eve makes the holidays feel extra special.

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