We have a holiday tradition that makes people gasp in horror. We open our presents on Christmas night. Not Christmas Eve, Christmas night.
It’s a tradition that stems back to the days when my grandparents owned a greenhouse in the 1930s in Cooksville (now Mississauga) at the corner of Highways 5 and 10, Dundas and Hurontario Streets. Christmas was one of their busiest times of the year, and they would often still be preparing floral orders and making deliveries right up until lunch time on Christmas Day. The only time they could sit down to relax and open gifts was after dinner.
It was a tradition my parents continued when we were young, and a tradition Dave and I have passed on to our children.
I love opening gifts at nighttime, with the fire crackling, the Christmas tree lights shining and a glass of Bailey’s in your hand. You don’t have to worry about jumping up and getting the turkey in the oven or baking pies and it prolongs the anticipation beyond Christmas morning. It also lets us get outside and enjoy the beauty and peace of the day.
I knew the circle was complete when on one of our nightly walks this week, Clare asked, “Mom, can we open presents Christmas night again this year? I really love it.”
My work as a parent is done.
Whatever your traditions or faith, I hope you have a joyous holiday. What’s your favourite holiday tradition? Leave a comment.
Happy Act 
I remember that tradition. It was always so fun at your house the Christmas evenings I spent there.
I read the Polar Express every year on Christmas Eve to my boys, their wives and my nieces and nephew. We used to gather at my Mom’s but now we call them and I read it over speaker phone. So exciting to now include the next generation with Emerick and our soon to arrive newest grandchild.
Oops. Forgot to log in so you know who the comment was from.
That’s such a wonderful tradition Val, I hope you keep it up!
Always loved that tradition. Made Christmas last all day! Still do it.
Merry Merry Christmas!
Wow, Dianna and Iona! So great to hear from you and to know you loved that Gillies tradition too. Happy holidays!