As December begins, the frosty air and Christmas spirit settle in. Christmas is the season of gathering, giving and, of course, food. Some treats only make their appearance once a year, which makes the season feel even more special.
From classic family recipes passed down through generations to new treats inspired by social media, Christmas foods and traditions never fail to deliver. Trending on social media platforms are viral popping cranberries, a juicy, sweet treat with bursting flavor. They are soaked in Sprite and orange juice, then coated in powdered sugar. They are a must-try and just one of many viral foods people can make and enjoy during the season.
A big part of making the delicious food happen is the people. Holiday traditions are what make the season so remarkable. When asked about her favorite holiday food and tradition, senior Bella Olinger said, “My favorite holiday food is smoked turkey that my family makes, and my favorite tradition is going to my grandparents’ house in Wisconsin and going snow tubing.” The holidays are about more than just food — they are about returning to familiar traditions that bring back memories and create new ones.
Beyond homemade baked goods and cooked meals, popular food and drink chains release holiday menus for a limited time. Starbucks released its Christmas menu in early November, featuring drinks such as the peppermint mocha and sugar cookie latte. Adding to the festivity, Chick-fil-A offers its peppermint milkshake, one of its most popular seasonal items available for only a short time.
With the season being shorter than many would like, it is important to enjoy the sweet treats, savory foods and countless traditions that never get old. Each year brings a wave of nostalgia that reminds us just how special the season truly is.
