New Holiday Traditions

We cherish our holiday traditions because they connect us with loved ones and fond memories. But it’s never too late to add new traditions to the mix, be it a vegan dish on the turkey table, ethnic diverse holiday music or outdoor celebrations.

In fact as families and circumstances change, new traditions might be even more fun than familiar ones.

For instance, have you ever celebrated winter solstice, the longest night of the year which in 2021 is Dec. 21? Kendal’s first official Winter Solstice gathering was 1995, three years after the community opened, and is now an annual event.

According to History of Kendal at Oberlin: “The focus of subsequent performances has varied over the years, from replicas of English performances and nostalgic looks at the music of the 1930s through the 1960s to multicultural collages of music and stories from many different parts of the world – all with costumes and dance.” 

This year’s theme at Kendal is “Songs of the Season.”

Other people like to head outdoors for the longest night. Writes REI Co-Op member Casey Lewandrowski:

“Today my sister and I are both living in Phoenix, Arizona – just a short drive from destinations known for their premium night-sky viewing like Sedona, Tucson, Joshua Tree, Flagstaff and Bryce Canyon. We now spend every winter solstice on an outdoor adventure that’s centered on cosmic events.”

Other Holiday Outdoor Events

Zoos, amusement parks and other parks and outdoor venues throughout the country had added special winter attractions for the holidays. For instance, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is featuring the Wild Winter Lights exhibit that includes a dynamic light show featuring a massive 50-foot -tall tree. Visitors can either walk or drive through the display, which runs through Jan. 2.

An ice-skating rink is just one of the attractions at the Winter Riverfest, located at Rivergate Park and Merwin’s Park along the Cuyahoga River in The Flats. Closer to Cincinnati is Kings Island Winterfest, which includes ice skating, live entertainment and festive foods.

Another holiday outing enjoyed by young and old is the festive train ride at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The North Pole Adventure includes Santa, hot cocoa and more.

For the train ride and many other attractions, advance tickets are needed. Also be sure to check and review their COVID protocols before heading out.

A little more lowkey is the Audubon Christmas Bird Count, which takes place Dec. 14 through Jan. 5, 2022. Participation is free and open to birders of all skill sets but you must make arrangements to participate in advance. Each count takes place in an established 15-mile diameter circle, and is organized by a count compiler. Count volunteers follow specified routes through a designated 15-mile (24-km) diameter circle, counting every bird they see or hear all day. To find a nearby circle and learn more click here.

Head Indoors for More Holiday Fun

Many of us have participated in a cookie exchange, whether at our church, in our neighborhood or just among friends. It’s a great and stress-free way to stock up on assorted sweets. But what about other exchanges, such as ornaments, candles, books or holiday recipes? Even better organize a progressive holiday dinner with nearby family and friends.

When it comes to gifts, consider giving experiences instead of things. Tickets to a play, art exhibit, sporting event or overnight getaway are just a few ideas to keep the holiday spirit going year-round. Or give to a non-profit or community service in honor of a loved one.

The holiday season is diverse, and includes Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Christmas, Kwanza, and New Year’s Eve. Try a tradition from a culture you are unfamiliar with or find a public celebration you can attend.

Tell us about a new holiday tradition you enjoy or plan to try this year.

In the past, Molly Kavanaugh frequently wrote about Kendal at Oberlin for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, where she was a reporter for 16 years. Now we are happy to have her writing for the Kendal at Oberlin Community.

About Kendal at Oberlin: Kendal is a nonprofit life plan community serving older adults in northeast Ohio. Located about one mile from Oberlin College and Conservatory, and about a 40 minute drive from downtown Cleveland, Kendal offers a vibrant resident-led lifestyle with access to music, art and lifelong learning.