What a Facebook Giveaway Revealed About Christmas Traditions in the North Country
Dec 17, 2025 01:31PM ● By Eliza Urbaniak
At NBC Watertown, our Northern Lights Giveaway was meant to spread a little holiday cheer – but this year it gave us something even more special. When we asked the community to share their favorite Christmas traditions, the responses were overwhelming, heartfelt, and deeply inspiring. Each comment told a story, reminding us that the magic of Christmas is not found under the tree, but in the traditions that connect generations and bring people together year after year.
One of the most touching stories came from Lydia Lavere, who shared how she and her son have woven generosity into their holiday traditions. What begins as a joyful moment decorating naturally turns into a lesson in gratitude and compassion.
“Every year my son and I pick special ornaments out for our tree. After this we usually spend the day going through his old toys and clothes and we give it to the Salvation Army or the Urban Mission. He loves doing this, he says it makes him feel grateful and cheerful.”
Her tradition beautifully reflects the true spirit of the season – showing how Christmas can be a time not only for celebration, but for teaching children the value of giving, empathy, and appreciation for what they have.
Carter Verholen’s response brought back a sense of community nostalgia, recalling traditions that reached far beyond the walls of the home into the heart of the neighborhood.
“The boat and golf cart parades my old neighborhood used to do every year. They do it for Halloween, Christmas, and the 4th of July. I used to bring my mirrorless camera and photograph the events.”
These parades were not just seasonal celebrations – they were moments when neighbors gathered, streets and shorelines came alive, and traditions were shared across generations. By capturing those events through a camera lens, Carter helped preserve memories that reflect the true spirit of community, reminding us that some of the most meaningful; holiday traditions are created when people come together and celebrate as one.
Some families add a playful twist to their celebrations. Taylor Ledford shared a tradition that transforms a simple drive through the community into a shared experience filled with laughter, anticipation, and connection.
“Our unique Christmas tradition is driving around to look at Christmas lights, and if someone finds a leg lamp, they get to open a gift early! This year we have found four-that’s a record!”
What makes this tradition special isn’t just the game itself, but the time spent together – eyes scanning the glow of holiday lights, excitement building in the car, and the shared joy that comes from creating memories that will be talked about long after Christmas morning. It is a reminder that some of the most meaningful traditions are born from creativity, togetherness, and the simple decision to make time for one another during the busiest season of the year.
Other traditions stay with us long after childhood ends, becoming emotional touchstones that connect past and present. Kalyn Gebolys shared a memory that continues to bring warmth and joy into her adult holiday celebrations.
“Every year when we were younger at holiday dinners we made a mixture of grape juice concentrate and ginger ale in a fancy pitcher and all got to drink it out of grandma’s fancy crystal glasses. It was so exciting as a kid and I still do it as an adult holidays aren’t the same without it!”
Moments like this show how the simplest traditions can leave the deepest imprint, carrying the magic of childhood forward and reminding us that the heart of Christmas often lives in the memories we choose to keep alive.
One response that truly touched our hearts came from Krystal Freeman, who shared how the Northern Lights have become a meaningful part of her holiday tradition. For her, it is not about the lights – it is about making memories with those she loves most.
“I take my dogs, and this will be the last year for my 14-year-old dog Abigail. I plan to take her regardless if we win or not. Thank you for always having this every year.”
Her words serve as a powerful reminder that traditions are not measured by how long that last, but by the love and intention behind them. Sometimes the most meaningful holiday moments are the quiet ones – spent savoring time together, knowing just how precious those moments truly are.
Reading these stories made one thing clear: the Northern Lights are more than a holiday display. They are a place where memories are made, where generations connect, and where traditions – both old and new – continue to shine. At NBC Watertown, we are proud to partner to present the Northern Lights and to help create a space that brings our community together during the holiday season.
Thank you to everyone who shared their stories with us and allowed us to be a small part of your Christmas traditions. Your memories remind us why this season is so special – and why the magic of Christmas continues to glow throughout the North Country.
