Traditions like cooking a special dessert or decorating the tree together, are what make the festive months both fun and meaningful.
Establish and enjoy holiday traditions at the table to create memories that will last a lifetime with family and friends.
The Tradition of Traditions
Every holiday has its own set of traditions at the center of the festivities.
This is especially true for celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah, among others.
Everything from stringing lights around the house, to baking cookies with Grandma, lighting candles, to the special foods we share at the table is a unique part of a holiday celebration.
One Christmas tradition is fruitcake, sometimes a much maligned tradition.
Did you know that the history of fruitcake dates back to the 18th century?
Fruitcake was a popular treat eaten ceremoniously in England, and as the British came to the new world, so did this dish.
Connectors to the Past and Present
Whether your traditional holiday menu consists of the standard cuisine or its full of quirks and personalized touches, it’s what makes the holidays memorable.
Traditions, especially at the table, are connectors.
They connect us to the past as we reflect on special moments and times together. Especially of those who are no longer with us.
And they connect us to the present in particular when everyon’s favorite dish is represented on the table.
These special dishes are what separate holiday feasts from any other meal-time gathering.
Finding Yourself Through Tradition
It’s never too late to start a tradition.
Find a new recipe, or add some new flavors and ingredients to an existing one.
It can also be as simple as prompting conversation by posing a simple question, “What are you most grateful for?”.
A tradition that you begin at the table this holiday season could carry on for many years to come.
Ask those with whom you are spending the holidays what’s most important to them and incorporate it into your time together.
See Also: Christmas Foods Around the World and At Your Table
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