Are you bored with the same old holiday traditions? Whether you’re over the yearly Secret Santa exchanges or you’re tired of struggling to light your Christmas tree, participating in holiday traditions can start to feel a lot like work. But fortunately, if you can’t take another ugly Christmas sweater, you don’t have to! Instead, you can create your own holiday tradition that actually resonates with you. And if you live with your partner, it’s even better if they join in, too.

Why You Should Create Your Own Holiday Tradition

Starting your own holiday tradition isn’t only fun, it’s also beneficial. There are plenty of reasons why you should start your own custom with your partner. Here are a few of the most popular ones:

It builds memories.

Participating in a holiday tradition that you and your other half created can truly strengthen your relationship. It can teach you a lot about each other, including your likes and dislikes. Plus, it promotes a sense of camaraderie and togetherness, which creates stronger, longer-lasting bonds.

It removes obligations.

For many people, participating in holiday traditions feels more like a chore rather than something enjoyable. They might oblige to appease their loved ones, but in reality, they prefer to be doing pretty much anything else. If this sounds like you, starting your own holiday tradition can help you break free from the same ol’, same ol’ so you can enjoy the holiday season in a way that’s meaningful to you.

It celebrates you.

People participate in traditions as a way to celebrate their culture or heritage. But creating a holiday tradition with your partner can do the same. You can incorporate elements from each of your backgrounds or simply create a tradition that speaks to who you are as a couple. This way, you’ll feel more connected to each other and have a unique way of celebrating your love.

6 New Holiday Tradition Ideas To Start with Your Partner

Holiday traditions like decorating a Christmas tree or standing in long lines for Black Friday are a part of American culture. But just because your parents did it, doesn’t mean you have to also. Starting your own holiday traditions is not only fun, it’s also a creative way to bond with your partner. To build new memories, here are six holiday tradition ideas that you and your beau can try together:

Spread holiday cheer.

The holiday season is a special time for giving. To celebrate, you and your partner can spread a bit of holiday cheer by volunteering to help others in need. You and your partner can pick a cause that you resonate with — i.e. serving meals at a soup kitchen or playing board games with the elderly at a senior home. Whatever you decide, volunteering is a fantastic way to celebrate the true meaning of the holiday season as a couple.

Brew hot toddies.

For some adult fun, swap the hot chocolate for hot toddies! This hot, boozy drink is perfect for cuddling up with your boo on a chilly winter night.

Throw a gingerbread house competition.

If you’re up for a challenge, try hosting a gingerbread house competition with your partner. You can purchase specialized kits or make your houses from scratch. However you decide to build your gingerbread houses, decorating is only half the fun!

Have a DIY gift exchange.

Tap into your creative side with a DIY gift exchange between you and your beau. Gifting each other handmade gifts not only elevates your average gift exchange, but it’s also a meaningful way to express your love to one another.

Arrange a gift-wrapping race.

If you have way too many gifts to wrap, make it a fun bonding activity by challenging your partner to a friendly competition. To play, be sure to have plenty of wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and other fun, festive decorations. Whoever wraps the most gifts, wins!

FaceTime your friends.

Instead of mailing family photos to your loved ones for the holidays, surprise them with a FaceTime call! A quick 5-minute phone call wishing your loved ones a happy holiday is a great way to catch up and let the important people in your life know how much you mean to them.