December is a season of gathering, and food often takes center stage. The smells, tastes, and colors of the season bring people together in meaningful ways. What are some new holiday traditions you’re interested in exploring this year? Is there something that’s been on your mind—perhaps a dish, activity, or gathering you’d love to try?
For me, December is all about combining the joy of gathering with seasonal ingredients. I dream of starting a tradition that showcases the local flavors of winter and the thoughtfulness of homemade gifts. Let’s explore how we can make this season extra special by celebrating what’s in season and sharing it with those we love.
Holidays to Inspire Seasonal Gatherings
December is rich with diverse holidays and traditions. Here are just a few that celebrate the beauty of gathering:
Rohatsu or Bodhi Day: A Buddhist day honoring enlightenment.
Feast Day of Our Lady Guadalupe: Celebrated in Mexico and beyond.
Winter Solstice: Honoring the shortest day of the year.
Christmas: A worldwide celebration of love and giving.
Boxing Day: A day for giving back.
Kwanzaa: Honoring African heritage and values.
Hanukkah: Celebrating light and perseverance.
New Year’s Eve: A time to reflect and celebrate renewal.
Note: If there’s a special holiday you celebrate that’s not listed here, please share it with me! I’d love to learn about its significance and how you celebrate.
Seasonal Produce Menus
Creating meals with in-season produce can elevate your holiday gatherings while keeping them budget-friendly and delicious. Depending on where you live—like here in Minnesota—you might face challenges with finding fresh local produce in winter. Here’s how to make it work:
Plan Ahead: Use my 5-Step Guide to Planning Nutritious Meals to stock up throughout the year.
Shop Seasonal at the Grocery Store or Local Farmers Market:
Pomegranates
Oranges and grapefruit
Root vegetables like carrots and parsnips
Get Creative with Frozen Produce: Green beans, for example, can be the star of a homemade green bean casserole.
When we plan meals with seasonal ingredients, we honor the rhythms of nature and connect more deeply with the foods we eat.
Crafting Personalized Gifts
Homemade gifts are a heartfelt way to show appreciation. Why not gather family or friends in the fall or early winter to prepare these together? Some of my favorites include:
Jellies or jams featuring seasonal fruits
Cocoa powder blends with spices like cinnamon or chili
Dried herbs packaged in beautiful jars
Salsa using preserved summer tomatoes and peppers
These gifts are thoughtful, personal, and allow you to share the flavors of the season.
Outdoor Winter Activities
Here in the upper Midwest, we say, “There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing!” Spending time outdoors in winter is a great way to relieve stress and connect with loved ones.
Organize a day of ice skating, sledding, or hiking
Pack a simple lunch with thermoses of hot cocoa or cider
Bring along a camera or sketchpad to capture the winter beauty
These activities make the most of the season while providing a break from the busy holiday pace.
Enjoy this Season
This December, take a moment to savor the meals, traditions, and gatherings you’ve created. Whether you’re building new traditions or simply enjoying the familiar ones, let seasonal ingredients and mindful choices guide you.
Want to Learn More?
To help you get started on your journey, I’ve created a free 5-Step Guide to Planning Nutritious Meals for 2025, and discover just how easy it can be to embrace sustainable, seasonal cooking. Sign up for my email list to be the first to know when it’s available.
Enjoy the season you’re in, while dreaming of what’s to come!
AnnaBelle
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