On Throwback Thursday, we take a look at some agelong family traditions which play an essential role in creating lasting bonds, fostering a sense of belonging, and passing down values from one generation to the next. Here are some ideas for family traditions that you can start or continue:
- Family game night: A specific day or evening each week or month was set aside for family game night, where everyone gathers to play board games, card games, or video games together.
- Sunday brunch: There is a weekly tradition of having a special family brunch on Sundays, where you all gather to enjoy a delicious meal, share stories, and spend quality time together. In most Nigerian families, Sunday brunch is incomplete without rice and stew.
- Annual family photo: The family portrait is taken every year on a specific date or during special occasions. This becomes a collection of pictures that showcase the family’s progress.
- Movie marathon nights: Mostly weekends, a certain night is for movie marathons, where the family watches a series of movies or binge-watch a favourite TV show together.
- Cooking or baking together: After choosing a recipe, everyone gets to participate in preparing the meal or baking treats together. This activity allows for quality time, teamwork, and the opportunity to pass down family recipes.
- Outdoor adventures: The family engages in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or picnics to enjoy nature and create lasting memories together.
- Storytelling sessions: Storytelling sessions are another family tradition we love. An older family member shares folk tales, life stories, experiences, and family history with the younger ones. This helps preserve family heritage and creates a sense of connection to the past.
- Volunteer as a family: Family members engage in community service or volunteer work together. This teaches the value of giving back and reinforces the importance of helping others.
- Holiday traditions: Family members always look forward to special holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s Eve. They partake in decorating the house together, organizing a special family meal, or participating in specific cultural or religious activities.
- Family vacations: Family vacations or trips, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a summer vacation, or visiting relatives in another city or country were another fun tradition that can’t fade away. The family members explore new places together thereby creating shared experiences and strengthening family bonds.