Holidays typically come tethered to heavy traditions. A certain food has to be made in a certain way, served with certain sides. Heirloom ornaments crowd the Christmas tree, leaving nary a bare branch to hang something unique. When you simply can’t swallow another bite of the old family recipe or watch that tired TV special again, it’s time to shake things up. Who said your year-end festivities have to look exactly like those of your forefathers? Let your holiday be a celebration of who you are and what you enjoy now.
If you need some experimentation inspiration, here are some novel practices to incorporate into a holiday done your way.
Try New Recipes Risk-free
If you’ve stopped yourself from attempting a dish or baked good because you were afraid it would fall short of a culinary masterpiece, just go for it. Invite friends over for an MVP – Maiden-Voyage Potluck. Host a safe, communal space to test out new creations. Worst case scenario, you can always order delivery!
Hold Your Own Award Show
Borrow the senior superlative model or go full-on Oscars. You can collaborate on the categories with family and friends, pulling from pop culture or inside jokes: Most Likely to Burn Every Batch of Cookies, Top Grandma Faux-Pas, Cutest Grocery Clerk in Town. Look back, laugh, and embrace the possibilities.
Give Thanks (and No-thanks)
Every year has its ups and downs. Think of your highs and lows and write holiday cards to the events that marked the peaks and valleys of your year. “Thank you to that cleanse I did in March that really got my system going in all the right ways,” or “Trader Joe’s, why would you discontinue the vegan Super Burrito I was so fond of? What did I ever do to you?!”
Dress for the YOU That You Want
We all have coveted pieces tucked away in the corners of our closets; outfits we’ve eyed longingly, pining for another opportunity to don. A lacey party dress, leather leggings, that “special occasion” bra. If there’s an item of clothing that makes you feel like YOU, put it on already!
Explore Cross-Cultural Ceremonies
Humans have been ingenious inventors for millennia, why start from scratch? Your ideal celebration could be out there in another time or place just waiting for you to discover it. Thanks to the internet you can travel there in your sweats, no designated driver required.
