During the Christmas season, many families celebrated the holy day in many different and unique ways. While some family traditions are as simple as decorating a Christmas tree, others have more involved ways of celebrating requiring travel. Archbishop Carroll students shared their family’s Christmas traditions.

All around the world, one Christmas tradition is the Elf on the Shelf. The tradition lives on today as families move the doll to miscellaneous places around their home; then, every morning, their children then try to find the elf.

“I help my mom hide the doll some days for my younger brother to find,” said senior James Brown. “This is a tradition that my family has done since I was a kid. As a family, we continue to do this for my little brother.”

A popular family tradition around Christmas time is decorating a Christmas tree. Decorating Christmas trees started in Germany in the 16th century, according to History.com. 

“Decorating our Christmas tree as a family has always marked the start of the holiday season,” said senior Gabriel Petrecz. “It brings back memories from when I was younger, and is a great way to bond with my family.” 

Being with family during Christmas is a key element for many during the winter holiday. 

“My favorite part about attending my grandparents for Christmas is having everyone together,” said senior Connor Archbold. “Getting to see the whole family and all doing things together brings happiness.”

One of the longest-lasting Christmas traditions is gingerbread houses. Gingerbread houses originated back in the 16th century, according to Historykitchen.com. For many, this is a family favorite for people. Sometimes people partake in this tradition as a family, or friends turn it into a competition. 

“I love making gingerbread houses with my friends,” said senior Caroline Pascual. “It’s funny watching each other make the houses and seeing whose house gets decorated the best.”

The many Christmas traditions fill homes with happiness surrounding the holiday season, but what is Christmas really about? Christmas day is not only about being with family, opening presents, and happiness, but it is the day to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. 

“Attending Christmas Mass is so nice because everyone there is celebrating with you,” said senior Rebecca Wallgren. “The whole Church is excited and it’s a way everyone comes together for the same reason in celebrating Jesus’ birthday.”