nhayes+FollowCharlotte’s Speedway Christmas: Last chance for Santa pics!Charlotte Motor Speedway is glowing brighter than ever this week, and there’s still time to catch the magic! Families can drive through dazzling light displays, explore the Christmas Village for last-minute gifts, and let the kids grab a photo with Santa before he heads out on his big night (Santa’s last day is Dec. 23). Movie nights on the giant SpeedwayTV keep the holiday spirit rolling, with The Grinch and The Polar Express lighting up the screen. The Christmas Village is open extra days, and the lights keep shining through Jan. 4. Who’s making this a new family tradition? #Culture #CharlotteNC #SpeedwayChristmas00Share
Zachary Vazquez+FollowChristmas Traditions That Started SmallEver wonder how your fave Christmas traditions started? Turns out, most of them began with just one family’s quirky idea—like the Christmas tree (thanks, Queen Victoria!), hanging stockings (shoutout to St. Nick), or even ugly sweaters (blame the 80s siblings). From leaving cookies for Santa to matching PJs, these now-global customs all have humble, heartwarming origins. Which one does your family do every year? #Culture #ChristmasTraditions #HolidayFun00Share
Lindsey Medina+FollowChristmas Classics That Just Won’t QuitEver notice how some Christmas stuff sticks around even after the original traditions have faded? Think Christmas trees (now with more glitter, less fire hazard), stockings overflowing with gadgets, and candy canes that are more about sugar rushes than symbolism. From mistletoe mischief to chocolate yule logs, these holiday icons have totally outlived their OG customs—but honestly, would we even want it any other way? Which one’s your fave holiday survivor? #Culture #ChristmasTraditions #HolidayNostalgia20Share
Kyle Fleming+FollowHoliday Must-Haves You Can't Skip!You know it’s the holidays when your playlist is on repeat, the kitchen smells like cookies, and you’re buried under a pile of cozy blankets. Here are 7 things that make the season feel extra magical: festive tunes, a good book, comfort food, handmade gifts, connecting with loved ones, keeping up with traditions, and yes—some much-needed self-care. Which one’s your fave? Spill your holiday essentials below! #Culture #HolidayVibes #FestiveFeels10Share
Michelle Taylor+FollowBronzeville’s Kwanzaa bash brings unity homeMark your calendars—Bronzeville is closing out the year with a vibrant Kwanzaa Celebration and Vendor Fair on December 27! This free, family-friendly event at Hatch 41 is all about celebrating culture, supporting Black-owned businesses, and connecting with neighbors. Expect hands-on Kwanzaa activities, youth programs, and a marketplace full of local vendors. It’s a great chance to reflect on the year, shop local, and embrace the spirit of unity and collective responsibility. If you’re a small business owner, a few vendor spots are still open! Who’s planning to join the festivities or set up a booth? Let’s talk plans and favorite Kwanzaa traditions! #Culture #Bronzeville #Kwanzaa202500Share
Traci Smith+FollowFairy Vibes Only: Christmas EditionEver wondered why we put fairies (or angels) on our Christmas trees? Fairy whisperer Karen Kay says it’s all about channeling that magical, childlike energy. Turns out, fairy lights, sparkles, and even Elf on the Shelf are all part of the fairy realm! If you want extra magic, go for a living tree, laugh more, and swap to eco-friendly stuff. Basically, Christmas is the perfect excuse to let your inner fairy out and sprinkle some real-life magic everywhere. #Culture #ChristmasMagic #FairyVibes20Share
Erin Wilson+FollowWhy December Felt Like Forever as a KidEver wonder why December used to feel like the longest month ever? Turns out, it’s all those classic Christmas traditions! From ripping open Advent calendars and decking out the tree to baking cookies and binging holiday movies, every little ritual stretched out the anticipation. Throw in some family chaos and giving back, and suddenly the holiday season felt endless—in the best way. Which tradition made your December feel the most magical? #Culture #ChristmasTraditions #HolidayNostalgia41Share
Traci Smith+FollowWhy 'Merry Christmas' Hits Different NowEver feel weird about saying 'Merry Christmas' instead of 'Happy Holidays'? Turns out, Hanukkah’s all about resisting blending in—and that’s a big clue. The article argues that generic greetings actually erase what makes each holiday special. Wishing someone a specific holiday, even if it’s not your own, is about seeing and celebrating their traditions. It’s not about agreeing with beliefs, but about real connection. Maybe it’s time to ditch the bland and go for the meaningful! #Culture #Hanukkah #MerryChristmas01Share
Lindsey Medina+FollowChristmas Traditions You Never KnewChristmas wasn’t always about Santa, trees, or even Dec. 25! Early Christians didn’t celebrate Jesus’s birthday, and Santa’s roots trace back to a real-life saint. Plus, in Japan, KFC is the go-to Christmas meal (seriously, you have to order months ahead). From wild medieval parties to today’s cozy family vibes, Christmas has totally transformed into a global celebration with some seriously quirky traditions. #Culture #ChristmasHistory #SantaClaus52Share
Zachary Vazquez+FollowSouth Boston rallies for Christmas dinnerNothing says community like South Boston’s annual Christmas Dinner at St. Monica’s, where neighbors come together to make sure no one misses out on a hot holiday meal. For over 30 years, the Kelley family and a team of volunteers have turned this tradition into a lifeline for thousands. Now, the torch is being carried on in honor of Frank Kelley and Msgr. McDonnell. Whether you can help with deliveries, set-up, or clean-up—or chip in a donation—every bit counts. Who’s joining in to keep this tradition alive and make the holidays brighter for everyone? #Culture #SouthBoston #ChristmasDinner00Share
