Tag: Christmas

Why Christmas Is the Best Holiday

By: Benson Elmore

Let’s be honest — every holiday has something fun about it. Halloween has candy, Thanksgiving has food, and New Year’s Eve has parties. But when it comes to pure happiness and good vibes, Christmas is the best holiday out there. Nothing else even comes close.

The Whole Vibe Is Amazing

As soon as December starts, the world feels different. The lights go up, Christmas songs play everywhere, and everything suddenly feels cozy and cheerful. You can’t help but smile when you see houses glowing with decorations or smell cookies baking in the kitchen. Christmas doesn’t just happen on one day — it’s an entire season of excitement.

It’s All About Giving

One of the best parts of Christmas is the giving. Sure, getting gifts is awesome, but giving them feels even better. There’s something really nice about finding the perfect present for someone you care about. Plus, people seem kinder this time of year — donating to charities, helping neighbors, and spreading positivity.

The Food Is Next-Level

No holiday feast beats Christmas dinner. There are cookies, hot chocolate, roast dinners, and desserts that only come around once a year. And the best part? You can start eating “Christmas food” weeks before the actual day. No one judges you for it — in fact, they’ll probably join you.

The Music Never Gets Old

Christmas music is a whole genre on its own. From Mariah Carey to Michael Bublé, these songs never fail to make you feel festive. Even if you pretend to be tired of them, once “Jingle Bell Rock” starts playing, you’re probably humming along without realizing it.

It’s Full of Memories

Christmas is also about tradition — decorating the tree, watching classic movies, and spending time with family. Every year feels a little different, but those small traditions always make it special. It’s a time when people slow down and actually enjoy being together.

At the end of the day, Christmas stands out because it brings people closer. It’s cozy, it’s joyful, and it reminds us what really matters — love, kindness, and connection. That’s why, no matter how old you get, Christmas will always be the superior holiday

Park City Review

By: McClain Segars

One of the best surprises about Park City? How much there is to do besides skiing. We arrived in Park City just as a fresh blanket of snow had settled over the town. It was like stepping into a snow globe. The streets were lined with twinkling lights, the air was crisp but not painfully cold, and the mountains loomed in the background like gentle giants. It felt cozy, welcoming, and somehow festive even though it wasn’t Christmas. We spent one afternoon wandering historic Main Street popping into quirky shops, grabbing hot chocolate, and visiting the Park City Museum, which was surprisingly fun for all of us . We also took a horse-drawn sleigh ride one evening up the mountain. It felt like something out of a movie, the cold air, the quiet crunch of snow, the mountains turning blue in the fading light. And the food? Incredible. From cozy
mountain lodges with giant fireplaces to family-friendly pizza spots, we never struggled to find a good meal. We even splurged one night on a fondue dinner. Park City stole our hearts. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, activity and family time. We came home tired in the best way muscles sore, bellies full, hearts happy. Everyone is already asking when we can go again, and when we are available for another trip! If you’re considering a winter family vacation, Park City should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re first-time skiers or seasoned pros, it’s got that magical combination of charm, fun, and ease that makes travel feel less like a chore and more like a true adventure.

Why Home Alone is the best Christmas movie ever

By: Benson Elmore

When you think of great christmas movies you probably think of the classics like Elf, and A Christmas Story, or other great movies. But when you really think about the greatest movie in Christmas movie history, the answer is obviously the undisputed greatest of all time, Home Alone. 

This movie is one of the greatest and most comedic movie experiences you can get, not to mention this is only the FIRST ONE. Even though the second and third movies are not as good as the original one, these movies are on the S tier (which is the highest one) of christmas movies. 

As a professional movie expert myself, I have seen the classics that everyone argues is better, but in all reality, we all know that the home alone trilogy take spot one, two, and three. If you do not agree with this take then you are simply biased.

 When it comes to the acting skill, Macaulay Culkin really shows off his raw talent. His character and acting skills carry the trilogy to greatness. 

Another reason this movie is the greatest of all time is because of how creative the directing crew was in the making of this pure masterpiece. Who in the world would think of all of the creative traps that Kevin set up in the movie. I mean, how does anyone on this planet not enjoy this movie. When it comes to the directing crew and the creativity of this movie, the proof is in the pudding. This movie is top tier.

 “Home Alone is a timeless holiday classic that blends heartwarming family moments with slapstick comedy and thrilling action. The film’s humor, memorable performances, and iconic scenes, combined with a strong message about family and the holiday spirit, make it a beloved movie that continues to captivate audiences of all ages. Its charm and humor have solidified it as a Christmas favorite.” New York Times Magazine states. 

Overall, this movie is the greatest movie of all time. There are unlimited reasons why it is better than any other movie, and if you honestly think that any other movie is better than you are not a true holiday movie fan.  

Christmas Joy

by: Owen Meyers

Because it blends joy, significance, and spending time with loved ones, Christmas is the greatest holiday. Every year, millions of people treasure this unique time of year.

Christmas is profoundly spiritual. It brings love and hope to Christians as they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s an opportunity to think and express gratitude. The season is made more peaceful and meaningful by religious customs like attending church or watching the Christmas lights with your family. The holiday’s message of love and joy makes everyone feel included, including those who are not religious. 

Being together is another aspect of Christmas. In addition to sharing food and gifts, families and friends get together to celebrate traditions like baking cookies, singing songs, and decorating the tree. People get closer during these times and make priceless memories. This time will never be forgotten because of the warmth, stories, and laughter that were shared.

This day encourages charity and kindness. People promote love, volunteer, and give to those in need. Giving, no matter how tiny, serves as a reminder of the value of taking care of others. Communities unite during this time to encourage one another and share happiness.

The delight is increased by the magical environment. Everything is made extra special by the scent of gifts, holiday music, and twinkling lights. Everyone loves to sit by the fire and open presents, and children eagerly await Santa Claus. The feeling of wonder is heightened by the splendor of snow-covered scenery and luminous decorations.

Because it’s all about love, happiness, and spending time with one another, Christmas is the greatest holiday. It’s a time to spread compassion everywhere and rejoice with the people who are most important to you. Christmas brings out the best in everyone, whether via customs, deeds of kindness, or just taking in the attraction of the season. It is a festival unlike any other, honestly deserving of its particular place in our hearts because of its unique blend of joy and meaning.

My Favorite Christmas Movie

By: Logan Mims

This week, in honor of the Christmas season I will be writing about my top 2 favorite Christmas movies. Christmas movies are the best part about the holiday season and my favorite 2 are Home Alone and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. 

Home Alone is definitely the best Christmas movie ever made and a lot of people would have to agree with that statement. It is a classic and it’s funny and suspenseful at the same time. The movie is about a kid named Kevin who accidentally got left home alone by his family when they went on vacation for Christmas. The whole movie these two guys, Marv and Harry, are trying to rob his house. He finds out they are coming and sets up tons of traps and pranks around the house to keep them from robbing him. This movie is overall so entertaining and I would have to rate it a 10/10. 

My next favorite movie is, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This movie is also another classic but my favorite version is the newest version by far. The story line is the same but they change up the songs and I thought they did a great job. The movie is about this character named the Grinch and he hates Christmas. His plan was to ruin Christmas for all the Who’s in Whoville. So what he does is on Christmas night he dresses up as Santa Clause and goes to steal all the presents and Christmas decorations from all the houses. While he is doing this he runs into a little girl and he realizes that what he is doing is wrong and he apologizes to everyone. After this the Grinch becomes nice and loves Christmas and he becomes friends with all the Who’s in Whoville. Overall I rate this movie a 8/10.

Top Christmas Movies

By: Addie Griffin

Christmas movies are one of the best parts of the holiday season. They are one thing you can always count on to bring the whole family together. Today I will be ranking the top 5 christmas movies. 

5. Starting off at number five is Rudolf the Rednosed Reindeer. This movie deserves to make the list because it is a famous movie that everyone loves. It is traditional and the songs are classic. However it is a bit of a slower and older movie which is why it is in the number five spot. It is perfect if you are searching for that nostalgic Christmas feel. 

4. At the number four spot is How the Grinch Stole Christmas. This movie is funny for all ages and teaches us what Christmas is truly about, rather than just receiving gifts. The Grinch’s spirit at the beginning of the movie makes it a little less fun which is why it is at the fourth sport. However this movie teaches us a great lesson which is why it deserves a spot on this list. 

3. Starting off the top three list is The Polar Express. This movie is magical and really puts you in the Christmas spirit. The adventures they go through make you feel like you’re in a dream. It shows how important it is to believe in Christmas even as you get older. It is not as funny as the top two, but still deserved a spot on the top three list. 

2. In second place is Elf. This movie is hilarious and full of Christmas spirit. Buddy’s excitement for the holidays is contagious. No matter how many times I watch this movie, it always makes me laugh. This movie also teaches us to stay positive and to keep believing in the magic of Christmas. 

1.First place obviously goes to Home Alone. This is the funniest Christmas movie and the most exciting. Kevin’s traps are so creative and watching the burglars fall for them never gets old. It has the perfect mixture of comedy and heartfelt moments, especially heartwarming when his family comes back. It reminds us Christmas is about being with the people you love no matter what animosity there might be. 

The Most Popular Christmas Gifts Over the Years

By: Lucy Buxton

Christmas Recap & After Christmas Steals

Since the Christmas season is approaching and children are making their Christmas lists for Santa, it only seems fitting to discuss the most popular Christmas gifts all over the world over the years. I will be discussing the “hottest” Christmas gift by each decade from nineteen-fifty to the two-thousands. 

Starting off with the year, nineteen- fifty, or as some would describe it, “The year of Barbie”. Barbie first hit the selves in nineteen-fifty and as you can probably imagine, Barbies were at the top of every little girl’s Christmas list. This is interesting because as I have looked at the shift of interest in toys over the decades, Barbie has continued to make her mark almost every year. This might also be connected with the movie released last summer. 

Interestingly enough, in nineteen- sixty the most popular toy under Christmas trees was the G.I Joe action toy. In ten years the most popular toy went from a very girly doll to an action packed “rough around the edges” G.I Joe action toy. 

Following the crave of G.I Joe in the nineteen- sixties, the next popular toy in the nineteen- seventies was Weebles. These items were popular more than thirty years before I was born but I still remember finding these toys fascinating when I visited my Grandmas. I guess my uncles were even a fan of Weebles.

Another iconic toy that is still around today that was highly popular in nineteen-eighty is the Rubix Cube. Although this frustrating yet iconic toy didn’t gain much popularity til nineteen- eighty, it was invented in the nineteen-seventies. I’m not quite sure if children actually craved this item or if they raved the attention they got if they were able to solve it. 

Moving on to nineteen-ninety, the Tamagotchi. I feel like I have heard of every toy so far but I can’t say this is something I have heard of. The Tamagotchi was a digital pet that required constant attention. Owners of this toy had to feed it and clean it to make sure the beloved pet did not die. This does not seem like a toy that could carry on its legacy into future years and it didn’t. 

The two thousands, a whole new century. Of course the most popular gift had to do with electronics. The Nintendo Wii captivated children of all different ages and although the Wii is not around still, many different variations of the Nintendo are still being purchased to this day.  

It is important to remember no matter how badly you or your child feels like they “need” a gift under the tree, the real gift is the birth of Jesus and spending time with the people you love most. 

Best Holiday of all time 

By: Bryce Hanson

       In honor of Holiday season, I will be writing about the best holiday of all time. Like always there is a certain criteria to be the best holiday, and that is: holiday originality, holiday participation, and holiday food. 

        To start with holiday originality, you must know what that means in my definition. What is the original purpose and meaning behind the holiday. The most commonly known Holidays for their origin is Easter, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and for good reasons too. Easter with the rising of Jesus again, and Christmas with the birth of Jesus. Then Thanksgiving with the feast between natives and explorers. But the holiday with the best purpose in my opinion is Christmas not only because it’s a celebration of Jesus Christ, but also because it’s a holiday that brings everyone together. No matter what it’s almost impossible to be mad on Christmas. It’s a holiday where everyone takes a pause from the real world and gets together with friends and family. 

         Then we move on to the holidays with the most participation in the world. Of course we revert back to Christmas, Easter, and special holidays like Halloween. The participation in these holidays are massive, but not worldwide. The most celebrated holiday may come as a surprise for a few,but it is Mother’s Day. The reason I think it’s the most celebrated is because obviously everyone loves there mother, but it’s the most celebrated because there are more people with Moms than dads. Which is a sad fact but that’s why this holiday is so massive. 

         Lastly comes holiday food, which is not as important as the last two factors but it’s some peoples favorite thing about a holiday. There’s Easter with the signature candy, then Christmas with cookies and delicious meals. But the most signature holiday with overall best food is Thanksgiving. Even if turkey is not your thing thanksgiving has so many options to choose from to satisfy your needs. This Holiday is just above the rest with food and rightfully so since it started with a feast. 

          So this brings us down to the man question: “What is the best holiday of all time?” To answer that question you have to look back at my criteria and you will see that Christmas is the best. It has some of the best food, and  second most participation, and the best origin story. It’s just the best option for a holiday.

Ranking the Seasons: Winter

By: Alexis Dawkins

            Winter is my least favorite time of year. Being cold is the worst thing on the planet, but a few good things can come from winter. To start off, there is Christmas. Even though I hate winter, Christmas is the best time of year. Having time with family and getting gifts: what could be better? Santa comes for the kids, and they have the best time setting up cookies and milk for him. Then there is New Years. This is a monumental time every year because we end one year and start a new one. Everyone tries to make new year resolutions but we all know how those go. A month into the year and a majority of people have forgotten about them. 

           Valentine’s day also is in the winter. February 14th is the day that couples love. Everyone giving out chocolate and flowers and stuffed animals is a big part of Valentine’s day. Sometimes, depending on where you are, it may snow. Not in Sumter but in a lot of places it may snow a few feet. If it does snow then it is a great time for friends and family to get together and play outside. Even if you live in South Carolina where it doesn’t snow you can go places like Virginia and go snowboarding and snow skiing. This is a great way for families to bond and make memories that last a lifetime. 

           This also is the time for basketball season for all the basketball lovers out there. The winter is the best time to have bonfires too. They can be fun in the summer but they are better in the winter because they heat you up in the cold of the winter. 

           Even though I do not like winter, it is still a fun time of year for those who do like the cold.