Yackelin Castro – Christmas Dinner
In a total of 365 days there are 12 recognized federal holidays, the best one being Christmas. During the Christmas season, many look forward to reuniting as a family over a nice dinner in what feels like a magical and unique season.
This dinner is a moment to put aside anything bothering one’s mind and fill the house with appreciation and love. There’s no better feeling than the excitement of finally being able to see some of your favorite family members. We learn to appreciate what we have within our family and capture memorable memories within the holiday season.
Christmas dinner isn’t only a time spent eating but yet a time of tradition and celebration. Whether it’s the time spent reconnecting with family or the time spent actually eating, there is something special about being able to gather under one roof and come together is truly a special moment we should cherish deeply.
Within Christmas dinner, we learn to show appreciation, gratitude, kindness and love. Sophomore Jennifer Velazquez said, “ I think Christmas dinner is the best dinner all year because it is a time to spend with family and create many new long lasting memories. I prefer this dinner over any other because I get to learn to appreciate and be grateful for my family and friends.”
Julie Napier – New Year’s Eve Eating
New Year’s Eve food is by far something to remember. It is the beginning of a new year and because of that the food is the first of the year and just tastes better.
New year food is a representative part of this holiday with conversations and cultures tied around the food and celebration all over the holiday. Even though many only celebrate this holiday because of the year changing, in many cultures they eat certain food to bring them good luck for the new year.
As for the other holidays, they have the same kind of food within their celebration. As for new years, the food and drinks have a meaning like 12 grapes represents 12 months of good fortune and luck. There are many different ways to celebrate good fortune and luck but this holiday is all about celebrating the new year with the people around you and best of all, good food.
For people like me who don’t like meat it’s not a problem because I don’t have to worry about eating meat because it’s not prioritized with the holiday.
Halima Jones said, “the new year for me is something I prioritize because I can start the year fresh and good food helps me start it.” I quite agree with her, I like to start the year off with some good food and a new me.
Olivia Uskert – Thanksgiving Feast
Thanksgiving is the only holiday that is primarily centered around a meal. While other holidays do have a traditional eating component to them, it is not the primary focus of the celebration.
The spread at Thanksgiving dinner is unusually decadent: warm dinner rolls, fluffy mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole topped with lightly toasted marshmallows, rich gravy, tangy cranberry sauce, freshly-baked pumpkin pie, and more, all surrounding a crisp, golden turkey at the center of the table.
For a vegetarian like me, Thanksgiving is one of the only holidays during which I can enjoy a complete meal. Though I cannot eat the turkey, I can still savor the green bean casserole, stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, mac and cheese, pumpkin pie, and more.
Furthermore, Thanksgiving is the only time many get to see their extended family for the entire year. Thanksgiving is a rare opportunity to catch up with family and friends and enjoy a meal with an abundance of dining options elevated by the laughter and chatter of those at the table. When taking all of these factors into account, it is clear that Thanksgiving dinner is the best meal out of all the holidays.
