Celebrating Christmas while serving in the military can be a bittersweet experience. While military service members may be far from home and loved ones, the spirit of Christmas doesn’t have to be absent.
From sharing festive thin ribbons to virtual greetings, military families can embrace the holiday spirit and make the season joyful and memorable. Here’s how to keep the holiday cheer alive and celebrate Christmas in the military.
Deck the Barracks With Boughs of Holly
One of the most effective ways to combat homesickness during the holidays is to create a festive environment in your living space. Whether in the barracks or on a ship, take the time to decorate. A mini Christmas tree can be adorned with handmade ornaments, and string lights can brighten up the dullest spaces.
If you’re in a group setting, consider organizing a decorating contest to foster camaraderie and a collective holiday spirit. Sharing decorations or creating them together can also be a bonding experience and a way to bring the comfort of tradition to your military family.
Connect With Loved Ones Digitally
Technology has made it easier than ever to connect with family and friends no matter where you’re stationed. Scheduling a time to video chat with loved ones can make all the difference on Christmas Day. You can watch each other open presents, eat meals “together,” or simply enjoy a conversation by the virtual fireside.
If time zones are a challenge, you can record and send video messages to ensure everyone can share in the moment at a time that works for them. This digital connection can be a lifeline during the holidays, providing a sense of participation in the festivities back home.
Immerse Yourself in Local Holiday Customs
Being stationed overseas during Christmas provides a unique opportunity to experience the holiday through a different cultural lens. Take the time to explore the local traditions and participate in the festivities.
This might mean attending a midnight mass, experiencing a holiday market, or learning about the host country’s Christmas legends and folklore. Immersing yourself in the local culture can provide a new appreciation for the holiday and be a refreshing take on the traditional celebrations you’re used to.
Give Back to Your Military Community
The holiday season is often synonymous with giving, and there’s no better place to practice this than within your military community. Organize or participate in events like toy drives, care package assembly for deployed troops, or volunteering at the base’s holiday events.
Giving back helps others and instills a profound sense of fulfillment and holiday spirit in oneself. It’s also a great way to connect with others who might be away from their families and create a supportive network.
Plan and Participate in On-Base Festivities
Most military bases will host their own Christmas events, and participating in these can be a lot of fun. From Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and choirs to holiday bazaars and parties, these events are designed to lift spirits and offer a semblance of holiday cheer.
Participating in or even helping to plan such activities can be deeply rewarding. It’s also an opportunity to meet new people and make lasting friendships during a time when many are feeling the absence of their families.
Create a Shared Holiday Meal
Food is a central part of any holiday celebration, and Christmas is no exception. Organize a potluck dinner with your fellow service members where everyone contributes a dish, preferably something that reminds them of home. If you’re in a remote location, you can use the military’s Meals Ready to Eat (MREs) to create a unique holiday feast.
Sharing a meal is a powerful way to create bonds and celebrate together. It’s also a chance for cultural exchange — tasting dishes from the various regions or countries your fellow service members call home.
Personalize Your Service Experience
Finally, take some time to reflect on what Christmas means to you personally and find ways to honor that during your service. Whether wearing a festive hat with your uniform or carrying a photo of your family in a Santa hat, small personal touches can make a big difference.
It can also encourage others to share their traditions and stories, leading to a richer, more inclusive holiday experience for everyone involved.
A Heartfelt Salute to the Season
The heart of the holiday is not just in the traditions we follow but in the connections we make and the memories we create.
So, raise a glass of eggnog or a cup of hot cocoa to the season, and may your military Christmas be merry, bright, and full of the camaraderie that makes the service such a unique place to be during this special time of year.
Practical Tips for a Seamless Military Christmas Celebration
To complement the ideas for celebrating Christmas in the military, it’s crucial to have practical tips that make these suggestions easy and enjoyable to implement. Here’s a section to enhance your festive experience and ensure your military Christmas is merry and manageable.
Simplifying Care Package Preparation
- List of Favorites: List items you and your fellow service members miss from home. This can guide your family in preparing care packages that truly resonate with your tastes and preferences.
- Coordinate with Family: Use digital platforms to coordinate with your family about sending and receiving packages. This ensures timely delivery and avoids duplication.
Streamlining Letter Writing
- Set a Schedule: Dedicate a specific time each week for writing letters. This becomes a cherished ritual and ensures that you stay consistently in touch with loved ones.
- Letter-Writing Materials: Keep a small stash of writing materials handy – like stationery, pens, and stamps. This makes it easier to pen down your thoughts whenever inspiration strikes.
Organizing Movie Nights Efficiently
- Selecting Movies: Have a group discussion or a poll to choose movies. This ensures everyone’s interests are considered, making movie nights more inclusive.
- Setting Up a Comfortable Viewing Area: Arrange a comfortable space with proper seating and a good screen. Setting up a projector can provide a more authentic movie experience if resources allow.
Efficient Caroling Coordination
- Song Selection: Choose a mix of popular and easy-to-learn carols. This allows everyone to participate, regardless of their musical background.
- Practice Sessions: Schedule regular but brief practice sessions. This helps the group get comfortable with the songs without taking too much time away from their duties.
Facilitating Potluck Dinners
- Dish Planning: Use a shared digital platform where everyone can list what they’re bringing to avoid duplicates and ensure a variety of dishes.
- Equipment and Space: Ensure you have access to the necessary equipment like microwaves, ovens, or cooking ranges and a space large enough to accommodate your group comfortably.
Personalizing Your Experience
- Personal Decorations: Keep it simple and portable. Small items like festive pins, badges, or photographs can add a personal touch without being cumbersome.
- Sharing Traditions: Create a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their holiday traditions and stories. This fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect.
Integrating these practical tips into your military Christmas celebrations makes the process less daunting and more enjoyable. Remember, the focus is on creating memorable experiences and cherishing the festive spirit, even while away from home.
