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There are so many different ways to celebrate Christmas, from gathering with family to traveling the world. So, what are some ways Bellevue families celebrate Christmas?
Christmas traditions in America originate with the Christian religion, as Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Many people celebrate this religious holiday with church services and giving to charity. But as time went on, Christmas developed into a more secular holiday with the creation of the Santa Claus figure and the addition of evergreen trees to our homes. Santa Claus can actually trace his roots back to Saint Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his secret gift giving.
Many kids have memories of going to see Santa Claus at a mall, writing a letter to Santa with their wish lists, and leaving cookies and milk out for Santa. As we grow older, some of those childhood activities fade but unique family traditions remain.
These can vary greatly from family to family, and Bellevue families are no exception.
“Every year we decorate Christmas cookies. This is something that brings all the family together; we play Christmas music and chat about our day while being creative,” said Kayla Manteghi, assistant principal secretary and AP coordinator.
Activities like this bring a special feeling of hominess and comfort. Other activities call for families to leave the house and enjoy a day outside.
“My family goes together to get a Christmas tree. My mom and I chop down one together every year. The same day, we put the whole tree up, my mom and I do the lights and then my whole family does the ornaments together,” said junior Evelyn Kauls.
Other families enjoy the holiday focusing on food. Every family has their own traditions and unique recipes.
“On Christmas Eve, we make bread that is rolled up with cinnamon sugar in one of them and cheese and ham in the in the other ones,” says Kauls.
Kauls’ family is not the only one with unique Christmas recipes, sophomore Cloris Wang also mentions her family’s distinctive food tradition.
“My family makes dumplings together and we stuff some of them with chocolate. It’s hard to tell when the dumplings are all put together. Whoever eats a chocolate dumpling will have a lucky/prosperous year,” says Wang.
Bellevue High School has an immensely diverse student body, where families from all around the world gather and add their unique touch for the holidays.
