How to Create Holiday Traditions the Whole Family Will Actually Love

Let’s be honest: holiday traditions are what really make those busy, festive weeks stand out from the rest of the year. But sometimes the old customs don’t fit as well anymore, or new faces (and ages) at the table bring fresh opinions. The secret to truly memorable holidays? Crafting traditions that fit your family—not someone else’s highlight reel. Here’s how to make it happen, no matter if your kids are young, your grandkids are taking over, or you’re splitting time between multiple households (or even an assisted living community).

Start With One New Thing—And Keep It Simple

Nobody says you have to invent a new tradition from scratch, or pile on a dozen Pinterest-worthy “musts.” In fact, the best memories usually spring out of something small and easy. Maybe it’s reading the same story in silly voices every Christmas Eve. Maybe it’s pancakes shaped like snowmen, or a goofy talent show after Hanukkah dinner.

Start with just one fun idea. Let it grow naturally—ask the family what they want to see come back next year. Better yet, give everyone a chance to suggest something. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers fantastic ideas for forming meaningful family rituals together.

Blend the Old With the New

If you’re welcoming new family members, or reuniting after time apart, invite everyone to share a tradition from their own background. Maybe Grandma brings her legendary kugel, or the younger crowd introduces a holiday movie marathon. Don’t sweat the details if things blend together or evolve year to year.

For families living in different places, try connecting online to decorate cookies at the same time or swap favorite recipes by email. Blended or far-flung families can find ways to honor everyone’s roots.

Let Younger Generations Take the Lead Sometimes

Younger family members have brilliant, funny, and unexpected ideas. Let them take charge of part of the celebration—maybe it’s picking the game for after dinner or organizing the gift exchange. These moments make kids and teens feel special, and each year, you’ll look forward to seeing what they cook up next.

If you have loved ones in an assisted living community, involve them too—even if travel is tricky. Video calls for caroling, mailing homemade ornaments back and forth, or sharing digitized photo albums all help everyone feel included.

Focus on Togetherness, Not Perfection

Trust me, nobody remembers if the pie filling was a little runny or Aunt Sue sings off-key. What sticks are the laughs, the noise, the sense of belonging. Don’t let the pursuit of the “perfect” gathering crowd out the warmth and wonder. Sometimes, the tradition of cleaning up together in pajamas is what brings out the real joy.

And if you hit a snag—maybe a power outage, a burnt dinner, or a missing present—roll with it. Often the “disasters” turn into the best family stories. 

The Tradition Is You—And Everyone You Love

At its heart, a family holiday tradition is about sharing moments and making memories, big or small. The ritual grows and shifts, just like your family. Keep gathering, keep laughing, and find your groove together—those are the stories you’ll cherish year after year, with inspiration from nebulic.