How I Celebrate Christmas: One Holiday, Two Celebrations

Christmas is a cherished time for my family, where we celebrate the season in two distinct ways. In this essay I want to share how I celebrate Christmas and discuss the intricacies of each tradition, as they hold a special place in our hearts.

Celebrating Christmas at home

Every other year, we embrace the comfort of our own home as the backdrop for our Christmas celebration. Our cozy abode becomes a hub of joy as we extend warm invitations to our extended family. While the guest list varies annually, one constant is the presence of my paternal grandparents, who never fail to join us for this festive occasion. On occasion, my maternal grandparents, along with their children and grandchildren, also grace us with their presence.

The preparations for our home-based Christmas commence in the early morning hours. With the centerpiece of our feast being a succulent roast duck, we must begin the meticulous preparations well in advance, allowing ample time for the flavors to infuse and the meat to cook to perfection. Additionally, we have a delightful tradition on the 23rd of December, where we indulge in 'Risengrød,' a delectable rice porridge adorned with cinnamon, sugar, and butter. This dish provides the foundation for our subsequent dessert, Ris a la mande, a rice pudding that we eagerly anticipate.

As the day progresses, we find solace in the serenity of our home. Some of my time is dedicated to delivering presents to friends who are preparing for their own Christmas celebrations. Meanwhile, younger children in the household gather to watch a beloved Disney show on television. Personally, I often find myself engrossed in the enchanting world of the video game Stardew Valley, losing track of time amidst its immersive landscapes.

The arrival of guests marks the beginning of the festive evening. We gather around the table, sharing laughter and cherished moments as we savor our dinner together. As the meal concludes, it is time for the highlight of our dessert, Ris A La Mande. However, it is not merely a culinary delight but also a game of chance. Within the dish lies a hidden almond, and the fortunate individual who discovers it is rewarded with a small present. It may be a game or a package of candy, creating an additional layer of excitement.

Following our delightful feast, we gather around the Christmas tree to partake in a joyous tradition—dancing. Holding hands, we form a circle and joyfully sing a medley of Christmas songs while circling the tree. Though it may not sound like the most exhilarating activity, the shared laughter and infectious energy make it a truly hilarious experience. To conclude this lively affair, we embark on a spirited run around the house, still linked arm in arm, while singing 'Christmas lasts until Easter.' The tempo increases with each repetition, culminating in a spirited dash in sync with the song's rhythm.

With spirits high, we then move on to the eagerly anticipated gift exchange. In the intimate setting of our home, where the number of attendees ranges from 6 to 10, the process is swift. By around 10 p.m., the festivities draw to a close, and weariness begins to settle. My father and I may indulge in a movie or two before retiring for the night, content with the joyous memories created throughout the day.

The following morning, on the 25th, we revel in the delight of our presents, exploring their potential uses and relishing in the excitement they bring. Beyond that, it is a day much like any other, where we savor the freedom from school or work and bask in the tranquility of quality family time.

How I Celebrate Christmas in Sweden

Our second Christmas tradition closely mirrors the first, albeit with a distinct Swedish flair. The festivities unfold in Sweden, where a larger gathering of 13to 17 people awaits us. Our journey to Sweden begins on the 22nd of December, setting the stage for an immersive Christmas experience.

On the 23rd, we embark on a heartwarming excursion to the nearby forest, where we carefully select a majestic tree to serve as the centerpiece of our decorations. With a sense of camaraderie, we adorn the tree with ornaments, infusing it with the spirit of the season. During this time, we also indulge in the art of confectionery, crafting delectable treats from marzipan and chocolate. These delectable creations become delightful companions as we gather to open presents on the 24th.

The 24th of December follows a similar pattern to our previous Christmas celebration. We come together to prepare a sumptuous dinner, eagerly anticipating the moment when we can indulge in the culinary delights before us. As night falls, the gift-opening ceremony ensues. However, due to the larger gathering, the process takes significantly longer. Starting around 8 p.m., we navigate through the sea of presents, relishing the joy on each recipient's face as they unwrap their carefully chosen gifts. We remain committed to ensuring that the younger children receive their presents before exhaustion takes hold, ensuring their comfort for the following day. As the night unfolds, we continue opening presents until each and every one has been revealed. The shared excitement and gratitude create an atmosphere of profound togetherness.

On the 25th of December, our familial bonds extend further as we extend an invitation to my aunt's brothers and their families to join us for a festive lunch. The gathering swells to approximately twenty people, adding an extra layer of joy and laughter to the occasion. In the midst of this convivial atmosphere, we share stories, savor the delectable meal, and revel in the warmth of shared experiences.

Final Words

In conclusion, our family's Christmas traditions encapsulate the essence of the season — love, togetherness, and joy. Whether at home or in Sweden, our celebrations revolve around the unbreakable bond that exists within our family. Each tradition brings its unique nuances, yet both are united by the shared moments of laughter, festive rituals, and the joy of exchanging presents. These cherished memories endure, allowing the spirit of Christmas to resonate in our hearts long after the season has passed.