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Celebrating the Holidays

By Bridget Brewster
Posted: 11/21/2024

The holiday season is here, and it’s one of the most magical times of the year. It’s a season filled with light, love, and traditions that bring people together. No matter where you’re from or what you celebrate, this time of year reminds us to slow down, connect with loved ones, and reflect on what’s most important.

Take Kwanzaa, for example. Starting right after Christmas on December 26, it’s all about honoring African heritage, culture, and community. Established in 1966 following the Watts riots, this cultural tradition is about families gathering to light the kinara, share meals, and reflect on values like unity and self-determination. Peggy Henerson said, “Celebrating Kwanzaa with family and friends on December 31st, (the night of the Karamu feast) has been a joy for decades. It’s an opportunity to see friends and family that you may not see throughout the year and celebrate our shared Black heritage.”  It’s a celebration that inspires pride and purpose while focusing on the strength of community.

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a beautiful eight-day Jewish tradition. This year it begins on December 7, and every night families light the menorah, add one more candle, and enjoy special treats. Arline Golden said, “Dan and I simply light our menorah every night for 8 nights while singing the appropriate prayers and other Chanukah candle-lighting songs.”  No matter how or where the observance takes place, it’s all about celebrating resilience, miracles, and finding joy in togetherness.

Christmas, celebrated on December 25, is one of the most widely recognized holidays worldwide. It’s a time for twinkling lights, decorated trees, gift-giving, and spending time with loved ones. Whether it’s through exchanging presents, cooking a big meal, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Christmas is all about love, joy, and the spirit of giving. One Villager said, “We don’t emphasize the presents so much anymore.  We think more about having a spirit of giving beyond consuming.”

Diwali’s message of light triumphing over darkness fits perfectly into the season.  “Diwali is the most important annual festival for Indians. Celebrated for a week starting with deep cleaning of the residence and decorations with rows of wick lamps all around the house in the evening.  The lamps symbolize victory of good over evil, enlightenment over darkness.”  Prakash Shrivastava went on to say. “Families get together and enjoy festive foods and end the evening with children getting presents and then joyfully lighting sparklers and light fireworks.” 

And let’s not forget Boxing Day on December 26, which is celebrated in Canada, the UK, and Australia. What started as a tradition of giving to workers has evolved into a day of shopping, sports, and spreading kindness. It’s a relaxed day to wind down after the Christmas rush while remembering the importance of generosity and gratitude. Executive Director Katie Brandon celebrates Boxing Day each year with her English husband, James, who grew up in Kent. “Boxing Day extends the Christmas celebration with a day to gather with my in-laws and family friends over a traditional English roast beef and Yorkshire pudding dinner.” James’ parents usually host at their home in west Los Angeles; this year, Katie and James will host the celebration. For James, it is his favorite part of Christmas – and it wouldn’t be complete without the paper hats, silly jokes, and party favors pulled from British Christmas crackers.

What makes this time of year so special is how all these holidays, despite their differences, share common themes of togetherness, hope, and love. It’s a time to embrace traditions and find joy in celebrating diversity.  The idea of light-bringing, gratitude and community is common among all these holidays . . . a gift we can each offer every day of the year.