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Beginner Level: How Americans Celebrate Christmas and New Year’s
A Fun Time for Families
Christmas and New Year’s are happy times in America. Many families get together to celebrate.
Christmas
On Christmas Eve (December 24th), some families go to church. At night, children hang stockings for Santa Claus. They go to bed early because Santa brings gifts while they sleep.
On Christmas Day (December 25th), families wake up early. Children open presents under the Christmas tree. Then, everyone eats a big meal. Popular foods are turkey, ham, and pies. Families play games or watch Christmas movies together.
New Year’s
On New Year’s Eve (December 31st), people stay up late. Some families watch TV to see the countdown to midnight. Others light fireworks. At midnight, people say “Happy New Year!”
New Year’s Day (January 1st) is quieter. Families relax and eat special foods, like black-eyed peas for good luck.
It’s a time to enjoy family and have fun!
Intermediate Level: How Families in America Celebrate the Holidays
A Season of Joy and Tradition
In the United States, Christmas and New Year’s are special holidays full of traditions and family gatherings. Here’s how many families celebrate:
Christmas
Christmas Eve (December 24th) is exciting for children. Families may attend a church service or have a cozy dinner at home. Many kids leave milk and cookies for Santa Claus before going to bed. They also hang stockings by the fireplace or on a wall.
On Christmas morning, families open presents together. Children are thrilled to see what Santa brought! After the gifts, everyone sits down for a big Christmas meal. Common dishes include roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and pies. Some families also enjoy holiday games or take a walk outside to see Christmas decorations.
New Year’s
New Year’s Eve (December 31st) is all about celebrating the end of the year. Families often gather to watch the famous Times Square ball drop on TV. Others might host small parties with snacks and music. At midnight, everyone shouts, “Happy New Year!” and sometimes gives hugs or kisses for good luck.
On New Year’s Day (January 1st), families take it easy. Many people eat traditional foods like black-eyed peas or greens, which are believed to bring good fortune in the new year. It’s also a time to reflect and set goals for the year ahead.
Advanced Level: A Look at American Christmas and New Year’s Traditions
Celebrating the Holiday Season: Family, Food, and Festivities
In the United States, the holiday season, encompassing Christmas and New Year’s, is a time of joy, togetherness, and meaningful traditions. Here’s a closer look at how a typical American family might spend these festive days.
Christmas
The Christmas celebration begins on Christmas Eve (December 24th). Some families attend candlelight church services, where they sing carols and reflect on the holiday’s spiritual significance. Afterward, the evening is filled with cozy traditions like reading “The Night Before Christmas” or watching classic holiday films. Children eagerly prepare for Santa Claus by hanging stockings and leaving out milk and cookies.
Christmas morning (December 25th) is the highlight of the season. Families gather around the Christmas tree, often adorned with lights, ornaments, and a star or angel on top, to exchange and open gifts. Breakfast might include festive treats like cinnamon rolls or eggnog. Later in the day, families come together for a grand feast, typically featuring dishes such as roast turkey or ham, stuffing, green beans, and sweet desserts like pecan or pumpkin pie. The rest of the day is spent relaxing, playing games, or enjoying time outdoors.
New Year’s
New Year’s Eve (December 31st) is a vibrant celebration of renewal and hope. Families and friends often gather for small parties or cozy nights at home, complete with snacks, board games, and music. Many tune in to watch the ball drop in Times Square, a famous tradition broadcast nationwide. As the clock strikes midnight, people welcome the new year with cheers, hugs, and resolutions for self-improvement.
New Year’s Day (January 1st) is usually calm and reflective. Traditional foods, like black-eyed peas and collard greens, are eaten in hopes of bringing luck and prosperity. Many families also take the opportunity to rest, plan for the year ahead, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or sledding if the weather permits.
The holiday season in America combines joy, reflection, and togetherness, making it one of the most cherished times of the year.
