Starting on Monday, the 21st of December, Hingham schools officially commences their more than welcome winter break. Throughout Hingham, continuous traditions such as Christmas in the Square, Horse-Drawn Hayrides, and Menorah Lighting all fill the town with festive spirits. However, many students and families share their own unique traditions and feelings towards the holiday break that make each and every break individually special! 

The true beginning of the 2024-2025 school year at Hingham High School has passed, and students find themselves deeply engulfed within their studying and workload. Christmas this year lands on a Wednesday, rewarding students with 8 days in total off of school. With the substantial volume of assignments around this stressful time of year, Junior Bryan Ma shares, “Winter break is much needed this year. I’ve had so much work especially since Thanksgiving break.” 

Eagerly anticipating an exciting break from school, Junior Emma Izmirlic shares some of her favorite aspects of the holiday season. She describes, “My favorite holiday tradition is on Christmas Eve. My brother, cousins, and I get boxes, made by our moms, with matching pajamas, a mug, a holiday book, and special ornaments inside. We have been doing this for as long as I can remember and it is definitely something I look forward to every year.” Similarly Junior Elizabeth Galvin describes, “On Christmas Eve I always go to my grandparents house with all of my cousins and we eat Chinese food and exchange gifts. On Christmas morning my family opens gifts together then we go to my other grandparents house for brunch.” 

Engaging in lifelong traditions serves as a great way to connect with family and friends throughout Winter Break. Nonetheless, the free time during vacation can be tedious, and trying newfound activities can be amusing. According to Teen Vogue, “10 Things to Do Over Winter Break When You’re Bored” Emma Webster recommends activities such as printing photos and creating a photo album, learning a new language, learning to knit, cleaning out your closet, facetiming your friends, attending donations, and attempting cooking video tutorials. 

Relaxing, taking a break from the stresses of homework, and spending time with loved ones are the true necessities to this year’s December vacation. Happy Holidays and enjoy the break!