As this holiday season draws closer, Maroons are finding themselves reflecting on their traditions that make this time of year so memorable. The holidays bring students a chance to connect with family, create lasting memories, and get a break from the workload of the semester. In this article, we take a closer look at some of the diverse ways Roanoke College students approach the holiday season.
In response to, “Do you have any special Christmas traditions?”
Morgan Strohl ’26 said, “My family is German, so we do this tradition where my parents hide a pickle ornament in the Christmas tree. Whoever finds the ornament first between my brother and I get an extra Christmas present. We’re usually competitive with it. This is a pretty popular German tradition!”
In response to, “Do you celebrate on Christmas Eve or Christmas?”
Angel Matias ’27 said, “I enjoy celebrating on Christmas Eve with my family. We are impatient, so we open presents at night during our Christmas Eve party. It’s nice too because when I would wake up as a kid on Christmas morning, I would be able to play with all my gifts.”
In response to, “Do you like to travel over break? Where? Why?”
Savannah Painter ’28 said, “I love to travel over break! My family usually goes to Pennsylvania for the holidays. We go up there to see my dad’s side of the family and spend some time with them! We love baking some warm cookies and decorating the Christmas tree.”
In response to, “What is your favorite Christmas color scheme?”
Zachary Bayers ‘27 said, “Typically, I like the cliche green, red, and white for clothing. These colors really remind me of the Christmas spirit. However, when it comes to Christmas lights, I much prefer when the lights are as colorful as possible.”
Adriana Rose
Staff Reporter
