Embracing Christmastide: A Slower Approach to Christmas

Christmas is my favorite time of the year, but there’s no denying that the holiday season can quickly become a whirlwind. From baking treats and sending out cards to juggling family get-togethers and holiday shopping, the pressure to fit everything into one day can make Christmas feel more like a deadline than a holiday. And while the day itself holds so much joy, it often feels rushed, with the buildup overshadowing the slow, peaceful moments we crave as a family.

One of the things we regret when Christmas is confined to just December 25th is missing the chance to slow down and enjoy the season as a family. Between obligations and preparing for the holiday itself, we often don’t have time to savor the simple activities that bring us joy—like baking our favorite treats, watching the Christmas movies we love, or listening to those cherished holiday songs we didn’t get to. By the time Christmas arrives, we’re often too busy to simply be present.

But here’s the thing I’ve learned over the years: the joy of Christmas doesn’t need to be confined to just one day. The transcendence we often seek from Christmas Day itself is, in many ways, misplaced. As John Eldredge talks about in his annual Christmas episodes, it’s an “Eden Longing” that we have for something beautiful, meaningful, lasting, holy. If we take the time to space out the activities that bring us joy, we can extend that joy far beyond the 25th.

This is where Christmastide, or the Twelve Days of Christmas, comes into play. By stretching the celebration to last from Christmas Day through Epiphany on January 6th, we create space to continue the traditions and activities we love. We’re not rushing to check off a list—we’re savoring moments, embracing the holiday spirit, and trying to build memories without the pressure.

Note: Christmastide, also known as the Twelve Days of Christmas, is a Christian season celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, starting on Christmas Day (December 25) and lasting until January 5, the eve of Epiphany. Traditionally, these twelve days were marked by feasts, festivities, and religious observances.

For us, extending the Christmas season means taking time for intentional reflection. We set aside moments to slow down, light a fire in the fire pit, and still enjoy meals together. We love looking at Christmas lights, a tradition that has become a joy bomb in our family long after Christmas itself. We want to try to space out gifts, giving ourselves the freedom to enjoy the season at a slower pace, even holding back a gift or two to keep the excitement going through Epiphany.

But it’s not just about what we do; it’s about how we approach it. Despite the mounting pressure otherwise, we are trying to limit the commercial rush that often takes over the holidays. We’ve cut back on the number of gifts we exchange, recognizing that the sheer amount of presents can feel overwhelming. Instead, we focus on the experiences, traditions, and moments that bring true joy. We’ve recently embraced the celebration of Advent in recent years, something we didn’t grow up with. However, it seems that even Advent is becoming something to sell and create merchandise around!

Our extended celebration also gives us a chance to reflect on the year gone by and set intentions for the one ahead. Through activities like reading together, making hot cocoa, and baking a goodie or two after Christmas Day itself, we create a sense of togetherness and gratitude that transcends the busy season.

Christmastide has become a way for us to fully embrace the magic of Christmas—not just the day itself, but the whole season. It’s a reminder that the warmth, coziness, and goodwill of the holidays can be extended and received long after the 25th. Maybe don’t take down the Christmas tree or outdoor lights until after January 6th? Enjoy them. Savor them.

So, if you’re feeling the rush and pressure of the holiday season, consider embracing a slower pace. Space out the traditions, hold onto the moments of joy, and let the magic of Christmas stretch all the way to Epiphany. There’s no need to fit it all into one day—take your time, and make this season last.