The festive holiday season is a time of joy, love, and togetherness. It is a period when families come together to share in traditions, create new memories, and strengthen bonds. From the twinkling lights and decorations to the delicious feasts and thoughtful gifts, every aspect of the holiday season is filled with warmth, wonder, and magic.
For families, the festive holidays offer a special opportunity to reconnect, relax, and recharge. It’s a time to put aside the stresses of daily life and simply enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Salah, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or another festive holiday, the spirit of the season is one of love, kindness, and generosity.
In this special feature of Moppet Dadsperience, we are sharing the experience of this father and his family, as he tells us how they celebrate festive holidays, from beloved traditions and cultural customs to modern twists and new ideas. So, grab a cup of hot tea, gather around the tree, and let’s get into the holiday spirit!
Kindly introduce yourself and tell us what you do for a living.
I am Daniel Thompson. I sell and repair computers.
How many kids do you have and how old are they?
I have a daughter and she is 1 year and 4 months old.
Can you share a brief background about your family and cultural traditions?
I got married in December, 2022. I am Igala from Kogi East and a Christian by faith.
What’s your favourite holiday and why?
End of the year festivity is usually my best.
How do you typically spend holidays with your family (e.g travel, staycation, outings, gatherings)?
By traveling
What are some unique family traditions you’ve created or continued from your childhood as it relates to holidays?
In my tradition, the end of the year is usually a time for different kindred meetings and festivals such the Ochen Masquerade festival, where different masquerades come out to entertain people. It is also time to reunite with different relatives and family members. However, this December is special for me because I will also be celebrating my second wedding anniversary.
How do you incorporate cultural or spiritual practices into your holiday celebrations?
Aside from the masquerade show, most of us now are christians, so in whatever way we are celebrating, we will put our religion into consideration. For example, on the dawn of December 25, before eating and merrying begin, the whole family gathers to appreciate God for witnessing yet another Christmas. Also, on the eve of the new year, we go to church for the crossover night to commit the new year into God’s hands. These are some of our spiritual activities during the end of the year celebration.
How has fatherhood changed your perspective on holidays?
This is my second year of celebrating Christmas as a husband. Being a husband and a father has changed the way I used to celebrate, this is because I can’t spend much time hanging out with friends like those days. You know, marriage comes with responsibilities.
How do you balance holiday chaos with quality family time?
My family and I always spend the holiday season meeting extended family members. Outside this, we just hang out and rest.
Share a cherished holiday memory with your family.
December, 2022 was very memorable for me because I got married.
What’s the most heartwarming gift or gesture your child has given you?
The heartwarming gift was when my daughter called out the word Da Da which means daddy. I felt a stream of joy flow through me.
Can you share a favourite holiday recipe or dish?
Pounded yam with our local vegetable soup.
Describe a humorous or unexpected holiday moment.
It was December, 2022 when some of my friends who came home for my wedding had an altercation with some masquerade boys. Initially, I was angry when it happened, but whenever I reminisce over it, it is very funny.
What activities do you enjoy doing with your children during holidays (e.g decorating, cooking, games, etc)?
Games and cooking
How do you involve your children in holiday planning and preparation?
This year, my wife and little daughter will do the colouring and decoration.
How has technology impacted your holiday celebrations?
Technology has played a great role. With our smartphones, every memorable moment will be captured, shared and saved on social media.
What role does community or extended family play in your holiday celebrations?
They play a very important role. I just sent my own share of the family contribution to the family head who happens to be my uncle. This contribution is used in renovating the family house and other preparations for the family gathering.
Can you share a particular holiday message or wish with us?
It is that time of the year when one gets to spend quality time with family. Please take your time, enjoy and cherish every moment.