Winter comes along with seemingly countless traditions, some are religious, and others are festive activities or sports. During this season and the break that comes with it, students and staff at SCHS will participate in various traditions and activities.
Some see winter as a time to appreciate religious holidays. Freshman Silas Dubin celebrates Hanukkah with his family and enjoys connecting with them over the holiday.
“In my family tradition, we usually light candles for family members that are alive or not with us anymore, and we’re able to enjoy being together and celebrating life,” Dubin said.
For English teacher Daniel Eaton, Christmas traditions start the day after Thanksgiving. After picking up a tree, Eaton and his family stop at In-N-Out, watch the movie “Elf” and decorate their tree. As it gets closer to Christmas, they also participate in something their family calls “Thriftmas,” where each of their family members gets $20 to spend on other family members.
“It’s kind of fun because you’re stuck with whatever’s there at the thrift store,” Eaton said. “You kind of have to be creative with what you think people will like.”
Holidays are not the only thing students and staff look forward to for winter. The season also comes with various activities, both outdoors and indoors. Junior Eva Damdinkhuu enjoys skiing over break with her family.
“I grew up doing a lot of winter activities like snowboarding, skiing… I’m really familiar with the snow,” Damdinkhuu said. “I think just doing snow activities, whether it’s building a snowman or skiing or doing anything like that, it just brings me comfort.”
Winter sports are only one part of the various activities students and teachers participate in. Many also enjoy being cozy while watching movies and baking, especially with friends.
“Cozying up, watching movies, drinking hot chocolate. I like to bake cookies, or get with my friends, have a little movie marathon, just a little get together here and there,” Damdinkhuu said.
The various winter traditions are fun for many as they enjoy them with others. Dubin enjoys them as a time of family bonding.
“Some of my extended family I don’t see that often, but during these times, I’m able to connect to them. I’m able to have something to bond with them,” Dubin said. “Since I’m half Muslim, half Jewish, it’s able to bring both sides of my family together.”
Winter break gives plenty of time for relaxation, which is another reason Eaton likes the holiday season. He enjoys spending time off with his family.
“Maybe it’s partly because everybody kind of has a time to stop and not do school and not do work. Everybody can just be themselves. They don’t have to worry about other things,” Eaton said. “I think that’s part of why those are the preferred times of celebration. There’s more time to relax and just enjoy being together.”
For some, winter is just another season. For others, it’s the best time of the year.
“I dread the summer,” Damdinkhuu said. “Once it starts to get cold, I’m excited.”