Celebrating the Holidays Overseas
One of the greatest traditions for most families is spending the holidays together. People come together, maybe have dinner, maybe play games, but usually engage in the same activities year after year. Part of the pleasure, is that everyone around you is in the mood too. You will see commercials on television, ads in the paper, and holiday cheer on social media. However, what happens if you move to a new country who does not share the same holidays that you do? You may not want to give up your traditions, but you also want to immerse yourself in the local culture. Here are some tips on how to do both after an overseas move.
What a lot of people may not realize is that holidays are often based on the seasons of the year. Many were started as celebrations for hard work that has been accomplished at that time. So just because your new land does not celebrate a particular holiday, they may celebrate a similar holiday at a similar time. For example, if Christmas is not celebrated in your new town, chances are there is some sort of celebration around the winter solstice. It may not be on the same day, but it is close. You could either celebrate Christmas on the same day as everyone else is celebrating, or celebrate the new holiday in your old style. This will help you assimilate into your new culture.
However, you may not want to alter your celebration in any way. If you like celebrating the holidays that you believe in, and in the way you normally do, that is ok too. Just remember, you are probably seen as a representative from your former country, so instead of being hostile, try to inform everyone of how you like to celebrate. You can teach your new friends and neighbors what you like to do, without trying to force them to celebrate with you. Everyone likes to learn new things, and they might be excited to learn about you and your family.
Bringing your Homeland Back to You
Chances are, you might have some friends and family back home that celebrate holidays at the same time you do. This is a great time to try and get in touch with them. Through social media and video chat services, it is easier to contact people around the world than ever before. Do not hesitate to call your loved ones back home and wish them a happy holiday. It will help you feel like you are together with your family again, and is a great way to feel like you are not celebrating alone.
You might also have other people in your new area from your former land. Contact them and wish them happy holidays as well! They may be interested in having a holiday themed party, because they are probably feeling the same as you during this time. Again, try going on the internet and seeing if there are any local establishments or activities going on in your area that are celebrating like you would in your homeland.
As stated above, one of the things that gets you in the mood for holiday cheer is the things you see on television. Most of the time your favorite shows and movies have holiday themed shows. Just because you are in an entirely new place, does not mean you have to miss out on all of your favorites. Online streaming sites are available globally, and have a wide variety of movies and TV shows that you can stream. It will feel like you are home again.
