The Ultimate Christmas Chat: Traditions, Decorations, and Holiday Spirit

Welcome to a VERY SPECIAL Christmas Podcast. This episode originally aired as part of our Novel Nights Live Stream last month! You can watch the replay on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/live/IYSHfgdt-rE?si=YswLN4kPaNEB5ghz About this Episode: Join Francesca, Victoria, and Laura in this festive holiday chat as they dive into Christmas traditions from around the world, nostalgic memories, and what the season looks like for them today. From debates about real vs. fake trees, nativity sets, and favorite holiday foods, to discussions on holiday pressure, decorating hacks, and cozy Christmas movies, this episode is your perfect companion for the season. Whether you're into Hallmark movies, traditional family feasts, or just trying to survive the holidays with boundaries intact, this conversation is packed with relatable stories, laughs, and tips to make the season joyful. What We Discussed: When Does Christmas Begin? Advent traditions, post-Halloween decorating, and extended celebrations in Puerto Rico. Childhood Traditions: Nativity sets, Grand Market shopping in Jamaica, and Three Kings Day celebrations. Modern Holiday Practices: Real vs. fake Christmas trees, themed decorating, and finding what works for your family. Holiday Pressure: Managing stress, gift-giving expectations, and finding balance during the season. Favorite Christmas Movies: Home Alone, Hallmark films, and quirky picks like Love Actually. Holiday Food and Drinks: Caribbean black cakes, Italian panettone, Puerto Rican coquito, and Greek holiday feasts. Tips to Survive the Holidays: Setting boundaries, decorating hacks, and creating moments of calm amidst the chaos. Best Places to See Christmas Lights: New York City, Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, and local holiday markets. Resources & Recommendations:Movie Mention: Deck the Walls by Danny Pellegrino (Hallmark and Peacock).Quick Tip: Look for small-town tree lightings or holiday markets for cozy, festive fun.Food Picks: Coquito (Puerto Rican eggnog), black cake (Jamaican fruitcake), and Greek pastitsio.