December and the Joyful Holiday Season

I always find myself experiencing chills and thrilled with happiness as December draws near. The reason is not so much Christmas Day itself as it is the kind of memories I have made and the perspective I have on the holiday. I imagine that everything is joyful and nothing negative occurs in December. I enjoy the cold, the way it feels, the comfortable weather, and the fact that everyone tries to forgive and make connections with one another during this season. I am positive that a lot of people resonate with this.

This is the period that everyone eagerly prepares to celebrate the holiday in their own unique and vibrant ways. The most interesting thing is that Africans and Ghanaians celebrate it differently with every household having their different traditions and ways.

With the diverse cultures, traditions, festivities, and rich tapestry of customs that make this time of year truly special here is how to spend the holidays in your unique way that will create lasting memories.

Embrace Cultural Traditions: One of the most beautiful aspects of celebrating the holidays as an African is the opportunity to embrace and showcase the unique ways we celebrate it while seasoning it with our cultural heritage. The local jingle bell songs that carry their rhythm that everyone can dance to. These make it worth celebrating and appreciating.

Feast on Traditional Delicacies: Food plays a central role in any African celebration, and the holiday season is no exception. This is the time to explore the array of mouthwatering dishes that are synonymous with the festive period in African cuisine. Personally, it is the time for me to go home and be fed with my mom's handmade food. There is this thing that I have about my mom's cooking, I feel like her food carries the world's nutrients so by the time I come back to where I am, I will be healthy and fit for the rest of the year.

Connect with Family and Community: The holidays provide the perfect opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and strengthen community bonds. In many African cultures, family is revered and cherished. Organize family gatherings, reunions, or virtual get-togethers to celebrate the season together. Share stories, exchange gifts, and engage in activities that foster a sense of togetherness, even if distance separates you physically. These little memories are the strings that hold families together and for years to come you will always remember how important the holiday season is. I do not play with family time so I use every opportunity to connect with my family.

You can also spice it up by celebrating with a family movie night: This is another way to explore and bond, you can just find a day and watch an interesting movie. We love cartoons and Christmas comedy movies so you will find us still enjoying "Home Alone and Baby's Day Out" These may be old movies so you can pick any movie that your family will enjoy for instance, Family Switch, Love Actually, Naija Christmas and Family Camp. You can suggest some in the comment section. But these are a few that you would enjoy.

Support Local Artisans and Businesses: The holiday season is ideal for supporting local artisans and businesses that showcase African craftsmanship and products. Explore markets, boutiques, and online platforms that offer handmade African art, clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Purchasing from these sources, you not only bring unique and meaningful gifts into your festivities but also contribute to the growth of African economies and promote cultural preservation.

As Africans, we have the privilege of celebrating the holidays with a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and festivities that highlight our unique heritage. By embracing our cultural roots, enjoying traditional cuisine, connecting with family and community, celebrating through music and dance, and supporting local artisans and businesses, we can ensure that our holiday season is filled with joy, meaning, and a deep sense of pride. May this festive period be a time of unity, love, and cultural appreciation for all Africans, near and far.

Let there be love. Have a happy jolly holiday.