The festive season is here and for many Nigerians, Christmas holds a special place in our hearts.
This is true because regardless of how bad, hard and tough the year might have been, it’s this season that brings people together. The Christmas season is that one very time to reflect, rejoice and reunite with family and loved ones. Well not to forget that we would have many of the IJGB in town lol.
I understand how important this time of the year is for creating lasting memories with our families, but the question is, how do we make this period really memorable?
Here are some tips to help you achieve that one very beautiful and memorable festive season you desire
- Create a Family Tradition
When it comes to having family traditions, we as Nigerians definitely top the chart. One common one is cooking and preparing a feast that includes dishes like hollow rice, fried rice and various local delicacies. But that could take a twist this year. How ?
- Involve everyone in the preparation
- Allow each family member to contribute their own special dish or help out with cooking
This would definitely help to create lasting memories of laughter, fun and teamwork in the kitchen.
- Contribute to your community
In Nigeria, many families have the strong sense of community and are often involved in giving back to those in need, whether it’s through charity or sharing a meal with the less fortunate. If you and your family have started that, kudos but if you haven’t, you should get your family involved.
- You could visit a local orphanage, old age home or less privileged community
- You could also consider organizing a Christmas party for the children in your area.
- Spend time together without being distracted
It’s a digital world, and we all know it’s easy to get distracted by our phones, computers and even TV shows. But Christmas provides us this opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and focus on spending quality time with the people who matter the most.
You should;
- Play games together like the classic Nigerian games such as Ayo, Ludo or scrabble where everyone can compete or work in teams.
- Storytelling
Most importantly, you should have a “no gadget day”. This would ensure you put away all devices and create a space where you can truly engage with each other.
- Plan a family getaway or staycation
If you’re in a position to travel, why not plan a family getaway to a destination within Nigeria? There are so many beautiful places across the country, from the serene beaches of Lagos and Calabar to the lush hills of Jos, or the cultural wonders of Enugu. A road trip or a short holiday can bring your family closer together, as you explore new places and experiences.
If a getaway isn’t possible, you can also plan a staycation – a vacation at home. Decorate your house with Christmas lights, create a cozy environment with Christmas-themed decorations, and make it feel like a special retreat. You could set aside a day for a family excursion, visiting a local museum, amusement park, or historical site. Whether it’s a long trip or a small local adventure, spending quality time in a new environment can make this Christmas unforgettable.
- Think and Make Resolutions for the New Year
As a family, you can sit down together and share your achievements and struggles. Reflect on what went well and what could be improved. You can set family goals for the new year, whether it’s working together to achieve financial goals, improving your health, or focusing on spiritual growth. It’s a way to bond, support each other, and look forward to the future as a unit.
- you could create a vision board as a family, where everyone adds their personal goals for the year. This visual reminder will inspire you throughout the year and remind you of the shared values and dreams your family holds dear.
This Christmas, make it a point to create lasting memories with your family by focusing on connection, kindness, and togetherness. You might have celebrated lots of Christmas but dare to make this one different, special and memorable!
Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with joy, love and new beginnings.
