It’s that time of year. Only one more day until Christmas – until radio stations go back to playing regular music and stores become less crazy. Most have spent weeks, if not months, getting hyped for the holidays. They’ve planned out their presents and meals, and now it’s here. Tomorrow is the big day!
So, if you don’t celebrate Christmas, what’s there to do?
As a Jew, there are tons of things you can do to fill your Christmas day. Some are typical and some are not, so pick and choose whichever fit for you!
1. Enjoy the famous Chinese food and a movie – Yes, I know. It’s the most stereotypical activity for Jews on Christmas, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a good one! Since most places are closed on Christmas, it’s hard finding good food…which leads us to Chinese restaurants. They’re one of the few places open, and with so many delicious options, they’re hard to resist! The same limited selection goes for non-restaurants, which is why so many Jews follow up or precede their meal with a trip to the movies. Careful though, in places like NYC and other highly populated Jewish areas, I’m betting theaters may be busy.
2. Celebrate Christmas – Sure, you may not practice Christianity, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t something to gain from participating in the Christmas holiday. Spend time with friends who celebrate and find out what makes the holiday so great for them. As someone who has experienced Christmas through loved ones for the past few years, I can tell you that it’s totally worth it. Why? Because happiness is happiness, and there’s something contagious about it no matter the reason.
3. Plan a game tournament – If you feel like there’s no where to go with every place closed, stay home! There’s nothing wrong with spending the day indoors and playing all the games you can get your hands on. Indulge your competitive side by inviting friends or family over and holding a day-long gaming tournament. The time will fly and the memories will be great!
4. Go outside – It’s true. December isn’t exactly the warmest time of the year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy being outside. Right now, with all the snow on the ground, it’s hard to resist playing in it. Build snowmen, create snow angels, have a snowball fight, and just let loose. When you’re finished, you can spend the rest of the day inside getting warm.
So, if you’re at a loss of what to do with your day tomorrow, try one of these suggestions and have fun!
-Sarah
#1 by Mark Levitt on December 24, 2009 - 4:23 pm
Enjoying time with family and friends and helping others celebrate their holiday are fine. Celebrating a Christian holiday is crossing a line that moves us another step to oblivion as a people and religion. Let’s encourage Jews to learn about, celebrate and share our own holidays and traditions.
Thoughts?
#2 by Sarah on December 28, 2009 - 3:30 pm
Mark, I think you’re absolutely right that there is a difference and that, as Jews, we should continue to learn about and share our holidays. My suggestion was not trying to say that people should adopt a Christian holiday. Instead, I was encouraging Jews to join in with family and friends as they celebrate a holiday so very different from Hanukkah, thereby learning about and experiencing something new. Think of it more as celebrating or participating in the cultural side of Christmas than the religious side. Hope that helps!
#3 by Sarah on December 28, 2009 - 3:27 pm
Mark, I think you’re absolutely right that there is a difference and that, as Jews, we should continue to learn about and share our holidays. My suggestion was not trying to say that people should adopt a Christian holiday. Instead, I was encouraging Jews to join in with family and friends as they celebrate a holiday so very different from Hanukkah, thereby learning about and experiencing something new. Think of it more as celebrating or participating in the cultural side of Christmas than the religious side. Hope that helps!