When the words “winter break” are said, most students think of snow, rest, and a time to be with their families. Students all through Loveland High School are starting to look forward to the quickly approaching winter break, as well as the holiday celebrations that come with it. Different traditions and celebrations make this break very special, with a variety of students celebrating different holidays; these differences in holidays are one of the many reasons Loveland’s atmosphere is so special during the holiday season. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, we can all agree that the time spent celebrating is very special.
Approximately 92% of Americans celebrate Christmas, but everyone’s traditions make this holiday all the more important. When asked if she had any special traditions during the holiday season, Annie Gehler (9) explained how every Christmas she looked forward to having “a nice Christmas brunch with my family and playing Secret Santa.”She also went on to highlight the ‘Elf on the Shelf’” tradition and the fun that comes with that (her elf’s name is Chip), as well as her favorite gift she ever received, a record player.
Gehler isn’t the only student who has special celebrations. Gianna Griffiths (10) also celebrates Christmas, where she has a few different traditions. Griffiths and her family partake in a “manger walk where (they) take the Jesus out by a candle and play the song “Silent Night”. Griffiths also explained that she thinks of herself as more of a giver than receiver.
Christmas is not the only holiday celebrated, with approximately 5% of Americans celebrating Hanukkah. Charlie Dewitt (10), who celebrates both Hanukkah and Christmas, explained that he loves celebrating Hanukkah because “it’s a lot of fun celebrating Hanukkah because I get to spend time celebrating a different holiday than just Christmas and being different.” When asked if he was more of a giver or receiver, Dewitt said that he is more of a receiver, but is trying to become a giver. This remark highlights the holiday spirit and how it can bring out the best in people.
In addition to Dewitt, many other students, such as Hanna Marcus (9), partake in the celebration of Hanukkah. When asked what her favorite part of Hanukkah is, Marcus explained that she loves “lighting the menorah and getting presents.” She also expressed her love for the Jewish food she eats during Hanukkah, such as latkes and gelt. Hanna also said, “I like getting gifts for the people I care about and I like receiving them because it makes me feel loved,” which really sums up the importance of the holiday spirit.
Although students may celebrate different holidays, a similar trend is having fun traditions and exchanging gifts, no matter what religion they have. The holiday season is a great time to see how similar people are to each other, even though there are some differences. During winter break, it is important to enjoy your time with family and celebrate the holidays. So, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy Holidays!