This year, a long-forgotten holiday custom is returning to the Heartland, and it all comes down to ingenuity and family joy.#Ohio #Christmas #Family #News
Cincinnati, OhioTraditions abound over the holidays. While some have been handed down through the centuries, others gradually disappear. However, one long-standing holiday custom is surprisingly making a resurgence among Heartland families this year: crafting homemade holiday cards, gifts, and decorations. It serves as a reminder of the true purpose of the holidays and is straightforward, enjoyable, and meaningful. To find out more, we spoke with a number of families in Ohio.
The Tradition s Roots
This custom, which was once a mainstay of Midwest holiday seasons, was all about family. Families used to get together to make their own holiday cards, decorations, and even homemade presents in addition to exchanging presents. In ways that seemed to disappear as modern life took over, it was a time to have fun, make memories, and share stories.
This custom predates the 20th-century commercialization of the holidays by a significant margin. Using supplies they already had lying around the house, families would create their own wreaths, ornaments, and other decorations. Crafting together was thought to be a way to slow down the Christmas bustle and produce something unique that would be cherished for years to come.
Why It Was Forgotten
Why, then, did this custom fade over time? The emergence of big-box retailers and internet shopping contributed to this, making it simpler to purchase pre-made gifts or décor. Due to hectic schedules and the rise of digital entertainment, families also started spending less time together.
Holiday customs also grew increasingly commercialized. The urge to offer pricey gifts, lavish Christmas dinners, and Black Friday shopping sprees took over. It seems that materialism and ease had supplanted the allure of creating something by hand.
The Tradition s Resurgence
However, something is different this year. Families are rediscovering the joy of creating together all over the Heartland. Instead of rushing to stores to buy more things, they re finding joy in making their own decorations, cards, and gifts as a family. It s a chance to slow down and reconnect with loved ones in a way that feels more meaningful and personal.
Why the resurgence? A lot of families are looking for a respite from the hectic modern holiday season. Authenticity and quality time are becoming more and more sought for. People are yearning for the more carefree times when they could make something with their hands, laugh together, and create memories unrelated to material possessions. Some families even post their works on social media to encourage others, demonstrating how the custom has changed to reflect the modern world.
How You Can Start the Tradition This Year
Thinking about starting this tradition with your own family? It s easier than you might think! Here are a few simple ways to bring back this nostalgic tradition this holiday season:
Set up a space in your home for a family crafting day. Think homemade ornaments, personalized holiday cards, or even festive garlands. You don t need fancy supplies construction paper, markers, glue, and scissors will do just fine.
Make it a point to sit down with family members and share stories about past holidays. Whether it s through old photos or tales from relatives, passing down these stories connects the generations.
Instead of buying everything, challenge your family to give one handmade gift. It doesn t have to be anything big think baked goods, hand-painted mugs, or a heartfelt letter.
For families who want to share their creations, post photos on social media with a special holiday hashtag. This can help spread the joy and inspire others to start their own traditions.
Stories From the Heartland
Families across the Midwest are bringing this tradition back, and they re sharing their experiences. One family in rural Ohio shared with us how they spent an entire afternoon together making wreaths, laughing over hot cocoa, and creating decorations they would treasure for years. Another family in Cincinnati has been making homemade holiday cards for their neighbors as a way to connect with their community in a meaningful way.
These personal stories show how something so simple can bring families closer, making the holidays feel more intimate and memorable.
The Most Meaningful Memories
The holiday season doesn t have to be about buying the perfect gift or throwing the perfect party. Sometimes, the most meaningful memories come from the simplest traditions like creating something together. Whether it s making decorations, crafting cards, or just spending quality time with loved ones, this forgotten tradition is one worth rediscovering.
So this year, why not bring this tradition back into your home? You don t need to wait for the perfect time just grab some supplies, gather your loved ones, and start creating. Share your stories with others and tag your holiday moments on social media to inspire even more families to revive this tradition. Merry Christmas and happy crafting!
RELATED TOPICS:Kids and Family|Christmas
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