As we step into December, I am reminded of how beautifully diverse this month is — a tapestry of holidays, traditions, and gatherings that all share a common thread: connection. No matter which holiday we celebrate, so many of our seasonal traditions invite us to come together with friends, family, and community.
For some, December is the glow of Hanukkah — celebrating seven days of lasting oil and the miracle of resilience. For others, it is Kwanzaa, honoring seven principles like unity, purpose, and collective work that remind us of the strength found in community. Many celebrate Christmas and the birth of Christ, a moment centered on hope, love, and renewal. The Winter Solstice marks the longest night of the year and the quiet turning toward light — a reminder that brighter days always return. And of course, we gather to watch the New Year’s Eve ball drop, closing out one chapter and welcoming another with anticipation, joy, and sometimes a little sparkle.
All these traditions — whether marked with candles, lights, storytelling, music, or shared meals — invite us to slow down, to reflect, and to be present with the people who mean the most to us. December is a month where we meet under twinkling lights and flickering candles, carrying forward the gratitude that began at Thanksgiving. It is a time when generosity shows up in big and small ways: gifts exchanged, food shared, laughter spilling across tables.
And yet, we also honor that this season can bring up difficult emotions for some. The holidays can be a beautiful time, but they can also be heavy, lonely, or complicated. At Penny Lane, we hold space for the full spectrum of human experience. That is who we are. I encourage each of us to check in on one another — especially those who might be struggling. A small act of kindness, a conversation, or a simple “How are you today?” can make a world of difference.
And in the spirit of this season, we lean into our core values — Commitment, Community, and Collaboration — to guide us forward. Our Commitment shows up in the joy of making sure every child we serve has a gift to open, a moment of surprise and wonder that reminds them they we care. Our sense of Community shines when we share our traditions — from lighting candles to decorating trees — offering the families we serve a glimpse into how we honor and celebrate each holiday. And our Collaboration comes to life as staff, partners, and volunteers join forces to spread joy through toy drives, festive gatherings, and moments of connection that brighten even the busiest of days. Together, these values help us carry the light of the season wherever we go.
-Judy Grant, Penny Lane Centers
Check out some more Holiday images below!
When we think of the month of December we often think of the holidays. The chestnuts are roasting, and the dreidels are spinning, and the bells are jingling. For so many of us the month of December is a time to celebrate with family and friends. We get dressed up or chill in pajamas. We gather over feasts, pop champagnes, sing songs, attend religious services, play games, eat, and exchange gifts. Because of how special this month is, I thought it would be nice to take a moment to look at the various holidays that December brings around the globe.
6 billion people around the globe celebrate holidays in December, making it the most popular month for holidays. These 6 billion celebrate in any number of ways, but regardless of the celebration, we can all agree that these celebrations represent the beauty of diversity around the planet. These December holidays are often based on traditions, religion and values that are important to the people who celebrate them.
Here are a few of the holidays that are celebrated in December. Some you know and some may be new to you!
On this day, Thailand celebrates the birthday of its beloved king, Bhumibol Adulyadej. King Bhumibol was born in 1927 and was the king of Thailand between 1950 and 2016.
Bodhi Day is a holiday that celebrates the moment when the Buddha reached enlightenment. It is observed on December 8th in most countries, but some celebrate it on other dates
The Immaculate Conception is a Catholic feast day that celebrates the conception of Jesus Christ by Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is celebrated on December 8th and is one of the most important Catholic holidays
December 13 is a religious holiday in honor of Saint Lucia, the patron saint of light. It is often celebrated with special church services, parades, and cookouts. In some countries, such as Italy and Sweden, it is also a day for celebrating the start of the Christmas season.
Las Posadas is a December holiday celebrated in Mexico and many other Latin American countries. It commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday that celebrates the re-dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem. It is celebrated for eight days and nights, usually beginning on the 25th of Kislev according to the Hebrew calendar.
The winter solstice is a holiday that celebrates the shortest day of the year. It is observed on December 21st in most countries, but some celebrate it on other dates. The word “solstice” means “sun stands still,” and this name reflects the fact that on the winter solstice, the sun appears to stand still in the sky. After the winter solstice, the days begin to get longer again.
Christmas is a holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated by Christians all around the world and is considered one of the most important holidays of the year.
Boxing Day is a public holiday originally celebrated in the middle-ages in the United Kingdom, today it’s celebrated in many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia
Kwanzaa is a holiday that celebrates African American culture and heritage. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga and is celebrated every year from December 26th to January 1st.
On New Year’s Eve, people around the globe celebrate the coming of the New Year on this last day in the Gregorian calendar.
Omisoka is the last of the December global holidays as the Japanese celebrate it on December 31st. It is a day to celebrate the coming of the New Year, and people typically exchange gifts, eat special foods, and participate in traditional ceremonies
Wherever you are in the world and no matter what you celebrate, we at Penny Lane want to recognize the richness and beauty of the holiday season. Relish in your traditions as you enjoy the time with family and friends and make memories to last a lifetime.
Penny Lane Centers wishes all a glorious December.
