Creating Holiday Traditions That Make a House Feel Like Home
The holidays have a special way of bringing families together. Whether you’re celebrating long-standing traditions or hoping to begin a few new ones, the season offers endless opportunities to make meaningful memories. At Ekdahl Real Estate, we know that the best traditions are the ones shared with the people you love, right where you feel most at home.
Here are some timeless (and a few fresh!) holiday traditions your family can enjoy this year:
The First Ornament Tradition
Kick off the season by choosing a new ornament each year. Whether it’s something symbolic from a family vacation or simply a decoration that sparks joy, your tree slowly becomes a visual scrapbook of the places you’ve been and the memories you’ve made. Kids especially love unwrapping “their” ornaments as the years go by.
Front Porch Christmas Photo
There’s nothing quite like capturing how your family grows and changes each year, and your front porch makes the perfect backdrop. Add a wreath, some twinkling lights, or a simple garland, and you’ve got a keepsake photo that’s both festive and meaningful. Bonus: it’s a reminder of the place where so many cherished moments happen.
Christmas Eve Pajamas & Movie Night
Matching pajamas or just cozy favorites, this tradition brings comfort and excitement to the night before Christmas. Pick a classic holiday movie, pop some popcorn, and enjoy an evening of togetherness before the big day. It’s one of those simple traditions that kids remember forever.
Holiday Baking Day
From sugar cookies to secret family recipes, a holiday baking day fills your home with warmth — and wonderful scents. Let the kids decorate cookies, share goodies with neighbors, or put together festive treat boxes. These are the moments that turn kitchens into the heart of the home.
Neighborhood Lights Walk
Bundle up, grab a thermos of cocoa, and take a stroll through your neighborhood to enjoy everyone’s Christmas lights. It’s a fun, free, relaxing way to slow down and connect as a family. You might even find inspiration for next year’s décor!
Family Memory Jar
Start a memory jar on December 1st and add a note each day, including favorite moments, funny quotes from the kids, or something kind someone did for you. Open it on New Year’s Eve or save it for next Christmas to relive the best parts of the season.
Acts of Kindness Countdown
Instead of (or in addition to) a traditional Advent calendar, create a countdown of kindness. Each day includes a simple, meaningful act, like writing a thank-you note to a teacher, donating toys, or baking cookies for a neighbor. It’s a beautiful way to teach gratitude and generosity.
Holiday Lights Drive in Nearby Towns
Many small Texas towns go all out with their holiday displays. Pack the family in the car, turn on your favorite Christmas playlist, and make a night of exploring nearby light shows. It’s an easy way to create magical memories—no wrapping required.
Hot Cocoa Bar on Christmas Eve
Set out mugs, marshmallows, peppermint sticks, whipped cream, sprinkles—whatever your family loves! A simple hot cocoa bar becomes a cozy, festive tradition everyone looks forward to. Pair it with your movie night for the ultimate Christmas Eve experience.
Home Is Where Traditions Live
No matter which holiday traditions you choose, the joy comes from sharing them with the people who matter most. At Ekdahl Real Estate, we love helping families find not just a house, but a place where these special traditions can take root and grow year after year.
If you’re dreaming of a new home for the holidays or planning ahead for the new year, our team is here to help. We’d be honored to help you find the perfect place to build your own family’s traditions.