Chrismahanukwanzakah: Why There’s Something To Love About Every Holiday

This month officially marks the holiday season, and no we’re not just talking about Christmas here.

This December, people all over the world will be celebrating the likes of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa: formally joined together in the snazzy term of Chrismahanukwanzakah, which equals fun for everyone.

The term grew in popularity after being featured in an episode of "The O.C.," and was even the central focus of an advertising campaign for Virgin Mobile last year.

In that spirit, we’ve taken a look at why there’s something to appreciate about every holiday; regardless of whether you celebrate it or not.

Chrismahanukwanzakah is a holiday for everyone, and if you don’t believe me, take Ginger Minj’s word for it.

The famous drag queen has just released a holiday single that is all about the joy of Chrismahanukwanzakah.

Let’s get down to the basics of the three core December holidays then. Christmas is undoubtedly the most popular. The Christian holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, and is celebrated on December 25.

Hanukkah is the eight-day Jewish festival which celebrates one of the greatest miracles in Jewish history.

The festival of light begins on 25 Kislev of the Jewish calendar which, this year, will be December 6 and concludes on December 14.

Meanwhile, Kwanzaa celebrates the history of African heritage and culture. The week-long holiday falls between December 26 and January 1 every year.

So, how can we celebrate all three, and more importantly, what are the best ways?

1. Have a Chrismahanukwanzakah party.

This season can cause up a bit of a stir during office parties, especially if your boss decides to label such party as a "Christmas" party. To run the risk of exclusion, just hold a generalized holiday party.

Regardless of religion or beliefs, everyone can join the fun in celebrating the time of year. Stay away from stereotypical party ware and just go for the theme of having a good time.

It’s likely you don’t socialize with the whole office team throughout the year, so take the opportunity and run with it.

2. Share each other’s cultures.

You could go the complete opposite of having a generalized, non-specific party and have a very specific one instead. If it’s appropriate, figure out what your colleagues beliefs are and what they’ll be celebrating this month.

Incorporate everyone into making one big party that is full of all the fun and exciting things from each celebration. Not only will everyone feel valued and included, but you may find yourself enjoying and learning about new aspects of their celebration while you’re at it too.

3. Delve into the deep history.

Each of the three holidays mentioned all have a rich and vast backstory. Invest in some time spending learning about what exactly your holiday actually means, how it came to be and how it’s evolved over time.

You’ll have such a better understanding of what it is you’re actually celebrating, rather than just stuffing your face and getting presents.

4. Volunteer and look after those less fortunate.

All holidays share the fact that they are based around a core value on respect and remembrance. Take the time out of your busy day and dedicate a couple of hours to those less fortunate than yourself.

There are numerous spiritual and community centers out there that could do with that extra pair of hands, and the smiles you’ll get throughout your time will be priceless.

5. Be with those who mean something to you.

It’s fun going out and celebrating, but each holiday is all about spending quality time with family and friends basically anyone who means something special to you.

Put the gadgets away and join each other in spending time together. Times like these are precious and are priceless.

Whatever you do, and however you decide to spend your holidays this month, be sure to have a good time.