3 Old-fashioned, comfy customs to bring back this Christmas

Advent and Christmastime bring so many memories and traditions that they can feel like the most nostalgic time of year. From “decking the halls” to Jolly Old St. Nicholas, there’s an old-fashioned song or story connected to just about everything we do during the holidays!

Yet a few of the sweetest traditions may have fallen by the wayside over the years. This Christmas, let’s bring back these delightful old-fashioned customs. They’re guaranteed to create warm and happy new memories!

Whatever happened to real Christmas caroling? We’re all familiar with the concept of knocking on neighbors’ doors to sing a Christmas song. But how many of us have actually ever done it? We’d love to see this tradition make a comeback! 

If you're looking for ways to spread a little holiday cheer this season, try Christmas caroling in your neighborhood! As they say, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” (And here are some practical tips for caroling etiquette.)

Reading a book aloud was a beloved evening pastime in the days before television, and it’s still a delightful way to spend time together. There’s nothing like listening to a story read aloud to build family connection and leave lasting cozy memories. 

Christmas is the perfect time of year for reading aloud, preferably snuggled under blankets or by a roaring fire (snacks and hot chocolate optional!). We’ve got some suggestions for great Christmas picture books. Or honor Christmas Eve with a reading of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” or the Gospel story of the first Christmas. 

Reading aloud is one old-fashioned custom that we hope becomes popular all year round!

No, we don’t mean video games. Think screen-free instead. Board games and parlor games are so much fun at holiday gatherings! But the truth is that they’re not just old-fashioned customs: They’re downright ancient!

You might be amazed to know how ancient of a custom board games are. The oldest artifacts considered to be game boards are between 6,000 and 10,000 years old. Color us impressed! 

What this means is that playing games together is one of the most time-tested and reliable ways to have a great time with friends and family.

This holiday season, gather your loved ones for some good old-fashioned games. Pull out the board games (we love the Catholic Card Game) or try a parlor game (that’s just a fancy way of saying a game you can play while sitting inside!). 

Our favorite parlor games that all ages can enjoy are Charades and Empires (we call it “Family”). Both games are suitable for any age: We recently played both with a group ranging in age from 3 to 83, and everybody had a blast!

Whether caroling, reading, or playing, we just have one goal in recommending these old-fashioned customs, and that’s to help you have a wonderful time with your family and friends.

We pray this holiday season is filled with connection, laughter, and joy for you and your loved ones!