- Share full article
Advertisement
Supported by
Student Opinion
15 Prompts for Talking and Writing About the Holidays and the New Year
Share your traditions, weigh in on a seasonal debate, write a creative story or reflect on the year behind you while preparing for the one ahead.
By Natalie Proulx
Merry Christmas , happy Hanukkah , joyous Kwanzaa and happy New Year.
To celebrate the season, we’ve rounded up 15 prompts we’ve written over the years that you can use for writing or discussion in the classroom, among your friends or at your holiday gatherings. You might talk about your beloved family traditions, weigh in on a seasonal debate, write a holiday-themed short story or poem, or reflect on the year behind you and prepare for the one ahead.
Each of these prompts was inspired by a New York Times article, essay or image, and many of them are still open for comment for students 13 or older.
For more writing prompts and conversation-starters, see our related column .
1. What Holiday or Holidays Are You Celebrating This Month?
Hanukkah? Christmas? Kwanzaa? A combination? Something else? Use this prompt to talk or write about your own holiday celebrations — or those that other families have that you wish you could be a part of.
2. What Are Your Family Traditions?
Students who weighed in on this prompt told us about preparing 12 meals for Ukrainian Christmas, making the haft sin for Nowruz, lighting the candles on the menorah for Hanukkah and playing the game White Elephant. What rituals help you mark the holidays or reflect on the year?
3. What Foods Will Be on Your Holiday Table?
Food is an important part of holiday celebrations all over the world. What dishes will be on your table this year? You might talk about the best festive snacks and finger foods with this prompt , or take inspiration from Lunar New Year and share your favorite holiday food traditions with this prompt .
4. How Do You Decorate for the Season?
Traditional or modern? Over-the-top or more understated? Discuss the way your family decorates for the holidays — or how you wish it did — with these two prompts. How do you think you will choose to decorate your home when you are older?
5. What Role Does Religion Play in Your Holiday Celebrations?
Several of the winter holidays have religious roots. In “ Saying Goodbye to Hanukkah ,” a writer asks whether you can celebrate traditionally religious holidays without religion. What do you think? Read the essay and then use this prompt to talk or write about how much religion is a part of your life and your holiday celebrations.
6. Do You Look Forward to Family Get-Togethers This Time of Year?
The approaching holidays often mean spending more time with family members, who come from near and far. Who do you look forward to seeing this time of year? Do you enjoy large family get-togethers or do you find them overwhelming? Use this prompt to talk or write about your most memorable family gathering.
7. What Makes a Great Gift?
What are you giving this holiday season? What are you hoping to get, or what have you already received? Use this prompt to share your gift-giving dos and don’ts, talk about the best and worst gifts you’ve gotten and weigh in on the adage “It’s better to give than to receive.”
Or, use this prompt to debate the commercialization of Christmas and whether experiences make better gifts than physical items do.
8. Should Phones Ever Be a Part of Family or Holiday Gatherings?
Now it’s time for a holiday debate: Are phones and other electronics welcome at your family or holiday gatherings? Do you think they should be? Can they ever be helpful? Or are they a distraction from spending quality time with your loved ones? Discuss these questions and others with our related prompt .
9. What Will You Be Watching, Listening To and Wearing This Season?
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”? Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You”? An ugly Christmas sweater, perhaps? Use these prompts to debate the best and worst holiday films , share what’s on your seasonal playlist and plan your special holiday outfit .
10. What Can You Do for Others This Year?
This year, Nov. 29 was #GivingTuesday on social media, a day when you were invited to take a break from buying things, and, instead, show generosity to others. The Giving Tuesday website suggests thinking about it this way:
Whether it’s making someone smile, helping a neighbor or stranger out, showing up for an issue or people we care about, or giving some of what we have to those who need our help, every act of generosity counts, and everyone has something to give.
What do you have to give? What people, issues or causes are important to you? What can you do this holiday season to give back? Tell us here , and then get more inspiration from the Opinion section’s Holiday Giving Guide .
11. What Seasonal Story Could These Images Tell?
Related Picture Prompt
A magical gift. A sledding adventure. A family gathering. What story could these images from around The Times tell? Choose one or more of the holiday- and winter-themed picture prompts from the slide show above, and then write a creative short story, poem or memoir inspired by them.
Another option? Use one of these images to play Exquisite Corpse with your friends, family or classmates: One person starts by writing or saying aloud the first line of a story based on the image, and then another person adds on, and so on.
12. What Were the Best and Worst Things About 2022 for You?
The Times’s art and culture critics often end the year by compiling a series of “best of” lists — the best TV shows , movies , art , songs , podcasts , books , comedy , poetry , theater , dance performances and more .
What would be on your “best of the year” list? What would be on your “worst of the year” list? What art or pop culture did you love or loathe? What news, sporting events or viral social media moments did you think were great or terrible? What were the most notable aspects of your personal, family or academic life? Use this prompt to help you make your “best” and “worst” lists and then compare them to those of other students.
13. What Would You Pick as Word of the Year?
Every year the Oxford English Dictionary selects a “word of the year” that is meant “to reflect the ethos, mood or preoccupations” of the previous year. For 2022, the publisher chose “goblin mode.” What do you think of this choice? What is one word or phrase that you think sums up this year? Weigh in on our related prompt .
14. What Was the Best Day of Your Year?
When you look back on the past year, what would you say was your most memorable day? Were you celebrating a big life event or achievement, like getting your license? Or were you doing something more mundane — perhaps talking to a friend on the phone, making a meal for your family or taking a long walk alone? What made that day so special to you?
Even though this prompt was written in 2021, you can still use the article and questions to take some time to appreciate your favorite day of this past year.
15. Do You Make New Year’s Resolutions?
As one year ends and another begins, will you take stock of all that you have (or haven’t) accomplished and make resolutions for the year ahead? Or, like other Gen Zers, according to this article , do you set goals all year round? Use this prompt to talk or write about the various goals or self-improvements you are currently working toward, as well as those you’d like to focus on in the New Year.
Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public and may appear in print.
Find more Student Opinion questions here. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate these prompts into your classroom.
Natalie Proulx joined The Learning Network as a staff editor in 2017 after working as an English language arts teacher and curriculum writer. More about Natalie Proulx
My Favourite Holiday Essay: 100,200,250 Words For Class 3
My favourite holiday essay 100 words.
My favorite holiday brings a pause to the daily rush, offering a cherished chance to unwind and reconnect with loved ones. This day is eagerly awaited, as it promises freedom from the routine, allowing for leisure and the pursuit of hobbies.
Whether it’s spending quality time with family, exploring new places, or simply enjoying the tranquility of home, every moment is treasured. The joy of not waking up early for school or work, and the liberty to plan the day as desired, makes it profoundly special. This holiday symbolizes relaxation, happiness, and the simple pleasures of life, making it my absolute favorite.
My Favourite Holiday Essay 150 Words
My favorite holiday stands as a beacon of relief in the relentless flow of daily commitments, offering a much-needed respite that reinvigorates my spirit. This special day, freed from the clutches of routine, is a sanctuary where time slows, and life’s simple joys are amplified.
It’s a day marked by the warmth of family gatherings, the laughter shared over meals, and the serene moments of solitude that replenish my soul. Each activity, whether it’s a leisurely stroll in the park, diving into the pages of a gripping novel, or engaging in cherished hobbies, is imbued with a sense of freedom and contentment.
The anticipation leading up to this holiday is filled with dreams of relaxation and the joy of stepping away from the usual demands of life. It’s a time when connections are deepened, and memories are made, embodying the essence of joy and the importance of taking time to celebrate life’s beautiful moments.
My Favourite Holiday Essay 200 Words
My favorite holiday stands out as a beacon of relaxation and joy in the relentless tide of daily routines. It’s the time when the constant ticking of the clock seems to pause, allowing us to breathe freely and immerse ourselves in the warmth of cherished moments. This holiday is not just about stepping away from the demands of work or school; it’s about reconnecting with the essence of life that often gets overshadowed by our responsibilities. It provides a perfect blend of leisure and adventure, enabling us to explore new places or rediscover the comfort of our own homes through a different lens.
On this special day, the joy of sleeping in without an alarm, indulging in hobbies that time usually doesn’t permit, and savoring unhurried meals with family transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. It’s a day where laughter fills the air, and the worries of life are put on hold. For students, it’s a break from the pressures of academics, a time to play and dream. For working adults, it’s a precious opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate, and perhaps tick off some long-postponed personal projects.
What truly elevates this holiday above all others is the way it stitches memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s a simple family dinner, an impromptu backyard camping adventure, or a quiet afternoon spent with a good book, these moments become treasures. This holiday is a reminder that in the pursuit of our ambitions, taking time to cherish life and loved ones is paramount. It encapsulates the essence of joy, peace, and the simple yet profound pleasure of just being.
My Favourite Holiday Essay 250 Words
Holidays serve as a precious break from the monotonous rhythm of daily life, offering a sanctuary for relaxation and the pursuit of hobbies. Among all, my favorite holiday encapsulates the essence of joy and tranquility, standing out as a cherished pause in the ceaseless flow of responsibilities. This holiday, observed amidst the bustling life, is eagerly anticipated for its promise of leisure and family time. It’s a period when the usual rush to school or work halts, allowing for moments of unhurried pleasure and togetherness.
On this particular holiday, the significance extends beyond mere respite; it embodies the joy of being home, not bound by the constraints of time and schedules. It’s a day when sleep is not cut short by alarms and the day’s agenda is filled with activities of choice rather than obligation. For students, it brings the delight of freedom from academic duties, offering ample time to indulge in play or to dive into the world of their favorite books. Working individuals find solace in this break too, seizing the opportunity to unwind, attend to personal projects, or cherish quality moments with family and friends.
What makes this holiday my favorite is the blend of relaxation and the opportunity it offers to strengthen bonds with loved ones. It’s a time when families come together, sharing stories, laughter, and possibly embarking on short, memorable excursions. The simplicity of enjoying a home-cooked meal with family or watching a beloved movie together holds unparalleled charm.
This holiday reminds us of the importance of taking a pause, stepping back from the hustle of life to relish the simpler joys. It reinforces the idea that while pursuing our goals is vital, finding moments of peace and happiness in the company of our dear ones is equally essential. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best memories are forged not through grand adventures but through the warmth of spending time with those we love.
My Favourite Holiday Essay For Class 2
My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love Christmas because it is very happy and exciting. We put up a big tree in our house and decorate it with lots of colorful balls and lights. It looks so beautiful.
Santa Claus comes on Christmas night. I put a sock near my bed, and in the morning, I find gifts in it. Opening the gifts is so much fun. I wonder what I will get every time.
We eat yummy food like cake and cookies. My family sits together, and we laugh and talk. We also sing Christmas songs, which makes me feel very happy.
I love Christmas because I spend time with my family and get presents. It is the best holiday for me.
My Favourite Holiday Essay For Class 3
My favorite holiday is Christmas because it is very fun and special. Christmas means we get to decorate our house with lights and a big Christmas tree. The tree looks so pretty with all the colorful ornaments and shiny tinsel. On Christmas morning, I wake up excited to open the presents that Santa left under the tree. I love guessing what each gift could be before I unwrap it.
On this day, my family comes together, and we all help to make a delicious dinner. We have tasty foods like turkey, mashed potatoes, and lots of cookies for dessert. After dinner, we sit together and watch Christmas movies. It makes me so happy to see everyone smiling and having a good time.
What I love most about Christmas is not just the presents but being with my family and feeling happy together. We play games, tell stories, and laugh a lot. Christmas is a time when we show love to each other, and that makes it my favorite holiday. It’s a very special day that I always look forward to every year.
My Favourite Holiday Essay For Class 5
My favorite holiday is Christmas, and I love it because it’s a time filled with happiness, beautiful lights, and family gatherings. Christmas is special to me not just because of the presents, but because it’s a day when my whole family comes together to celebrate. We decorate our house with sparkly lights and a big, green Christmas tree. The tree gets decorated with colorful balls, stars, and lights. It looks so beautiful that I could stare at it all day.
On Christmas morning, I wake up early, excited to see what Santa has brought for me. Opening presents with my family is the best part. We all sit together, and it feels like a big treasure hunt. After opening gifts, we have a big meal. My family cooks delicious food like turkey, pies, and my favorite, mashed potatoes.
Another reason I love Christmas is that we get to share joy and love. We sing Christmas songs, and sometimes, we even go caroling around our neighborhood. It’s fun to see everyone’s smiling faces. We also spend time talking, playing games, and watching Christmas movies together. It’s a holiday that brings my family closer, and we make lots of happy memories.
Christmas is about giving, caring, and sharing joy with others. It reminds me to be thankful for what I have and to spread happiness. That’s why Christmas is my favorite holiday. It’s a magical time that fills my heart with joy.
My Favourite Holiday Essay 200 Words In English
My favorite holiday is Christmas because it is full of joy and brings my family together. Every year, we decorate our house with colorful lights and a big Christmas tree. The tree looks amazing with all its decorations and twinkling lights. It makes our home feel very cozy and festive.
Christmas morning is the most exciting part. I wake up early, full of excitement to open the presents Santa left under the tree. My family gathers around, and we take turns opening our gifts. It’s fun to see everyone’s happy faces.
We also enjoy a special meal on Christmas. My family cooks delicious foods like turkey, stuffing, and lots of sweet treats like cookies and pies. We all sit together at the table, share stories, and enjoy the food. It feels great to be with everyone I love.
During Christmas, we do fun activities like singing carols and watching holiday movies. These moments are special because we laugh and have a good time together. Christmas is about giving, loving, and spending time with family. It reminds me to be thankful for all the good things in my life.
I love Christmas because it’s a happy time that brings joy and peace. The time I spend with my family. Christmas always leaves me with beautiful memories that I cherish all year long.
Similar Posts
Essay On Camel In English, For Kids,100-200 Words
Essay On Camel For Kids Camels are fascinating animals known for their ability to live in deserts, where very few animals can survive. This essay will introduce you to these wonderful creatures and their unique features. Camels are large animals with long necks, skinny legs, and one or two humps on their backs. These humps…
Essay On Dog In English For Class 1,2,3,
Essay On Dog For Class 1 Dogs are lovely animals that many people like to have as pets. They are known for being very friendly and loyal. A dog has four legs, two eyes, two ears, a nose, a mouth, and a tail that wags when it is happy. Dogs come in many colors like…
Morning Walk Essay For Class 4 – 10 And 100 – 300 Words
Embarking on a morning walk is akin to embracing the day with open arms, welcoming the myriad of possibilities that lie ahead. It’s a moment of tranquility and rejuvenation, offering a blend of physical wellness and mental clarity. This simple yet profound activity sets a positive tone for the entire day, making it an essential…
My Daily Routine Essay 100,150,200,300 Words And Class 2-10
In the tapestry of life, each thread represents a day, and how we weave these threads determines the richness of our existence. “My Daily Routine Essay” invites you on a journey through the meticulously structured days of students from class 2 to class 10, illuminating how routines shape our learning, growth, and personal development. As…
Essay on Artificial Intelligence 100,150,1000 Words
Imagine a world where machines not only think but also learn, adapt, and make decisions – a future not just imagined but being built today through Artificial Intelligence (AI). This technological leap has already started to reshape our lives, industries, and societal structures, offering solutions as much as it presents new challenges. In this essay,…
Essay On Donkey in English 100 Words, Short Essay
100 Words Essay On Donkey Donkeys, with their distinct features and gentle nature, have been invaluable to humans for over 5000 years. Originating from the African wild ass, they have been domesticated and now serve various roles globally. Averaging a lifespan of 12 to 50 years, donkeys are remarkably adaptable animals, thriving in both developed…
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
How to Write an Essay on 'My Favorite Holiday and Why': 3 Best Examples
Choosing a favorite holiday can be an enjoyable yet challenging task. Whether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, Diwali, or any other holiday, each person has their own unique reasons for why a particular holiday holds special meaning to them. This article will guide you through the process of writing an engaging and thoughtful essay about your favorite holiday. With practical tips and three comprehensive examples, you'll be ready to wow your readers.
- What is a Holiday Essay?
A holiday essay is a piece of writing that explores the significance of a specific holiday in the writer's life. It reflects personal experiences, traditions, and emotions related to the holiday. This type of essay can be both informative and narrative, often combining descriptive elements to create a vivid and heartwarming account of why the holiday is meaningful.
- Why Write About Your Favorite Holiday?
Writing about your favorite holiday allows you to celebrate and reflect on what makes that time of year special to you. It also offers an opportunity to share your unique traditions and memories with others, fostering a sense of connection and understanding. Whether for a school assignment, a personal blog, or a festive newsletter, this type of essay can be both enjoyable and impactful to write.
Tips for Writing a 'My Favorite Holiday and Why' Essay
Before diving into examples, here are some tips to keep in mind while crafting your essay:
1. Choose Your Holiday Wisely
Focus on a holiday that holds special significance for you. It could be a well-known holiday like Christmas or Hanukkah, or a more personal celebration such as a family reunion or cultural festival.
2. Use Descriptive Language
Paint a vivid picture for your readers by using descriptive language to convey sights, sounds, smells, and emotions associated with the holiday.
3. Share Personal Stories
Include specific anecdotes or memories that highlight why the holiday is meaningful to you. Personal stories make your essay relatable and engaging.
4. Structure Your Essay
A well-structured essay typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Ensure each section flows smoothly into the next.
5. Reflect on the Holiday's Impact
Discuss how the holiday has influenced your life or shaped your values. This adds depth to your essay and helps readers understand your perspective.
- Example 1: Christmas - A Time of Joy and Reflection
Introduction
Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. The magic of twinkling lights, the aroma of freshly baked cookies, and the joyous sounds of carolers singing fill my heart with warmth and nostalgia. Every year, I eagerly anticipate the arrival of December, as it brings with it a sense of togetherness and reflection.
Body Paragraphs
History and traditions.
Christmas is celebrated on December 25th and commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. Growing up in a household that cherished this holiday, we followed many traditions that made it special. Decorating the tree with handmade ornaments, attending midnight mass, and exchanging gifts were just a few of the customs that made Christmas magical.
Personal Memories
Some of my fondest childhood memories revolve around Christmas. I remember waking up early on Christmas morning, filled with excitement as I ran downstairs to find a dazzling display of presents under the tree. The entire day was spent with family, laughing, sharing stories, and indulging in a delicious feast prepared with love.
The Spirit of Giving
One aspect of Christmas that I hold dear is the spirit of giving. This holiday taught me the importance of generosity and compassion. Every year, my family participated in charity events, donating toys and food to those in need. These experiences instilled in me a sense of empathy and a desire to give back to the community.
Christmas is more than just a holiday; it is a time of joy, reflection, and unity. The traditions and memories associated with this celebration have shaped my values and continue to bring me happiness each year. Christmas will always hold a special place in my heart, as it represents the true essence of love and togetherness.
- Example 2: Thanksgiving - A Celebration of Gratitude
Thanksgiving is a holiday that holds immense significance for me. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, it is a time to express gratitude and appreciate the blessings in our lives. The essence of Thanksgiving lies in gathering with loved ones, sharing a hearty meal, and reflecting on what we are thankful for.
Historical Background
Thanksgiving traces its origins to the early 17th century when the Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to celebrate a successful harvest. Today, it has evolved into a national holiday that emphasizes the importance of gratitude, family, and community.
Family Traditions
In my family, Thanksgiving is a day filled with cherished traditions. We start the day with the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a vibrant spectacle of floats, balloons, and performances. The afternoon is spent preparing a sumptuous feast, with everyone contributing their favorite dishes. The highlight of the meal is the turkey, accompanied by an array of sides like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
A Time for Reflection
What makes Thanksgiving truly special for me is the emphasis on gratitude. Before we dig into the delicious meal, we gather around the table and each person shares something they are thankful for. This simple act of reflection fosters a sense of appreciation and reminds us of the many blessings in our lives.
Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude and togetherness. The traditions and values associated with this holiday have left a lasting impact on me, encouraging me to recognize and appreciate the good in my life. Each year, I look forward to this special day, as it serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of gratitude and family.
- Example 3: Diwali - The Festival of Lights
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is my favorite holiday. Celebrated by millions of people around the world, Diwali is a time of joy, prosperity, and new beginnings. The dazzling display of lights, the sound of bursting firecrackers, and the aroma of festive sweets make Diwali a truly magical experience.
Significance and Traditions
Diwali is celebrated in honor of Lord Rama's return to Ayodhya after defeating the demon king Ravana. It symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Our celebrations include lighting oil lamps, decorating the house with colorful rangoli, and performing religious rituals to seek blessings from the deities.
Personal Celebrations
My family's Diwali celebrations are a blend of traditional practices and modern festivities. We start the day with a thorough cleaning of the house to welcome prosperity. In the evening, we dress in new clothes and gather for a puja (prayer) ceremony, followed by a grand feast featuring a variety of festive dishes.
The Joy of Togetherness
Diwali is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. The highlight of the evening is the exchange of gifts and sweets, symbolizing goodwill and affection. The night sky is illuminated with fireworks, creating a spectacular display that brings joy to everyone.
Diwali is more than just a festival; it is a celebration of light, hope, and unity. The traditions and memories associated with Diwali have a special place in my heart, reminding me of the importance of family, faith, and togetherness. This festival will always be my favorite, as it embodies the true spirit of joy and celebration.
Writing an essay on 'My Favorite Holiday and Why' provides an opportunity to share your personal experiences and the significance of a cherished celebration. By choosing a holiday that holds special meaning, using descriptive language, and reflecting on the holiday's impact, you can create a compelling and heartfelt essay. The examples provided above demonstrate different approaches to writing about Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Diwali, each highlighting the unique traditions and personal connections that make these holidays special. Use these examples as a guide to craft your own essay, capturing the essence of your favorite holiday and why it means so much to you.
How to Write an Essay on My Favorite Animal and Why: 3 Best Examples
Writing about your favorite animal can be both fun and enlightening. Dive into essential tips and inspiring examples that help you craft an essay expressing your admiration and personal connection.
How to Write an Essay on 'My Favorite Movie and Why': 3 Best Examples
Writing an essay about 'My Favorite Movie and Why' can be a fantastic way to express your feelings and analyze a piece of art that has impacted you. Whether you're writing this essay for a school assignment or as a way to share your thoughts with the world, following a clear structure will make your piece shine. In this guide, we'll explore how to create compelling content with three detailed examples to help you get started.
30 ‘In Conclusion’ Synonyms and How To Use Them Write Better Essays
A strong closing section is essential for any essay. Whether you’re writing an argumentative essay, an exposition, or a narrative essay, the conclusion needs to be one of the most impactful parts of your writing. If you’re looking at ‘in conclusion’ synonyms, then you likely need some help with crafting an impactful summary section.
- Tips for Writing a 'My Favorite Holiday and Why' Essay
IMAGES
VIDEO