As Christmastime approaches, we look forward to gathering with loved ones and participating in our favorite traditions. Big or small, preparing for and celebrating the holiday is highly anticipated all year. Here are the favorite Christmas traditions of our staff. 

Happy Holidays from The Talon Team! 

Perspectives co-editor Idera Laifa ‘24

“My favorite Christmas tradition is opening my gifts on Christmas morning with my family. It creates the best memories with my family and brings us closer together. It always makes me happy during the holiday and it brings me joy. ”

Staff Artist Ali Lill ‘24 

“My favorite tradition is cutting down our tree. We had to do that earlier this year but it’s fun regardless.”

Staff Writer Jacob Woubishet ‘23 

“[My favorite Christmas tradition is] spending time with family.” 

News Editor Lily Laryea ‘24 

“My favorite Christmas tradition is on Christmas eve, my extended family comes over and we have a christmas cookie decorating competition. Over the years it’s evolved with the prizes, formed and broken alliances, and a necessary panel of unbiased judges. It’s something I look forward to every year and really makes my holiday season amazing!” 

Staff Writer Dalu Dumebi-Kachikwu ‘24 

“Opening gifts on Christmas morning and watching Christmas movies are my favorite traditions. The excitement that builds up in those few days leading up to that torn paper always makes the season something to look forward to. Getting to watch Christmas movies with my family is a great bonding experience and I get to witness so many actors who in regular conditions I wouldn’t notice. Pointing out the flaws and plot holes in the movies is also something I find very hilarious

Staff Artist Christina Long ‘23 

“[My favorite tradition is] opening presents together in my immediate family and then hanging with my cousins and siblings. It’s just always fun with them!” 

Staff Writer Ethan Bird ‘24 

“My favorite tradition is when we all gather around a smaller Christmas tree upstairs and open a few gifts like comfy clothes for the night or some desserts and snacks to eat while we watch “The Santa Clause” before going to bed that night.”

Staff Writer Hanna Lemley ‘25 

“We have beef jerky as a stocking stuffer every year for the whole family. It’s funny and tastes really good.” 

Staff Writer Anthony Pham ‘24 

“My favorite Christmas tradition is exchanging gifts. It’s always interesting to see what other people thought up to give you.”

Staff Writer Samuel Seleshi ‘26 

“My favorite Christmas tradition would be opening presents, because it’s fun to unwrap gifts with my family in the morning.” 

Co-Executive Editor Mary Ellen McDermott ‘23 

“My favorite Christmas tradition is spending time with my family. On Christmas Eve, I visit with my dad’s side of the family and participate in the annual McDermott family Christmas program, where we read classic Christmas books and exchange presents. I spend Christmas Day with my mom’s side of the family and we exchange gifts as well. Whether we’re eating cookies or watching Christmas movies, there’s never a dull moment!” 

Sports Editor Sarah Siegle ‘24 

“My favorite Christmas tradition is volunteering at a food or toy drive, because I can experience the true joy and meaning of Christmas. I enjoy being able to give gifts, because I love to see the impact they bring and happiness that is shared. Furthermore, it helps me reflect on what a wonderful gift Jesus is to the world, and the hope we can have by trusting in him. I also like being able to spend time with family, because during the busyness of the year it is easy to take something so valuable, like family, for granted.” 

Staff Photographer Maddie Tiongson ‘25 

“My favorite Christmas tradition is buying and wrapping gifts for my friends and family. Gift giving is like a hobby to me, I love to pick something special to give to someone that I know they’ll appreciate.” 

Staff Writer Julia Purdy ‘24 

“I go to Michigan with my family and we go to this place called Crossroads Village where they have a Christmas town and lights show. I’ve gone there every year since I was born.”