Many families have traditions. These traditions can vary depending on culture, religion, nationality, and preference. Common traditions for families are holiday traditions. Some common traditions families enjoy during the holidays such as decorating the tree, baking, and writing letters to Santa.  

Nationality plays a big role when it comes to tradition. My family is Norwegian, so every Christmas morning, we make a Norwegian-style breakfast. Many other Norwegians gather on Christmas Eve (December 24th) for a traditional meal and to open presents. For someone of a different nationality, it could look a little different. For example, someone who is Native American Indian will have different traditions than Norwegians. Though many Indians believe in Hinduism, millions still celebrate Christmas in India. One popular holiday tradition in India is to gather with family and friends and attend Midnight Mass. Midnight Mass is a Christian gathering on Christmas Eve. Many people will have different traditions depending on where their ancestors are from or even their nationality.

Religion is a different story. Depending on your religion, you may not even celebrate Christmas. For instance, people who believe in Judaism celebrate Hanukkah instead of Christmas. Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication (to dedicate someone or something again or anew) during the second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The celebration of Hanukkah lasts from December 18th to December 26th. Those who celebrate Hanukkah may not celebrate Christmas, and those who celebrate Christmas may not celebrate Hanukkah. Christmas is a Christian holiday that occurs on December 25th and celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas is the most celebrated religious holiday. As I said previously, religion plays a big role in which holidays a person celebrates. 

Many cultures, religions, and nationalities have different traditions. Your traditions and the holidays you celebrate depend on these factors. Whether you celebrate Hanukah or Christmas, whether you are Norwegian like myself or another nationality, the holidays are meant to be spent with people you love. Whatever your traditions are, spread love and kindness this holiday season.