Christmas in the 1970s was a magical time. It was filled with unique traditions, from bold holiday decorations to the excitement of gift-giving. For those who lived through it, the 70s were filled with unforgettable memories that made the season extra special. Here’s a look at 10 beloved Christmas traditions that defined the decade and continue to bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia today.
Finding the perfect Christmas tree was a big deal in the 70s. It wasn’t just a quick trip to the store—it was an adventure. Families would spend the day searching for the tree that would become the centerpiece of their holiday celebrations. Once the tree was selected, it was time to bring it home and decorate it with twinkling lights and shimmering silver Lametta. That classic, shiny tinsel was a must, adding a magical touch to any tree.
Food in the 1970s was more about presentation than gourmet taste. Holiday meals were often a colorful spectacle, with food art becoming a fun trend. Think of gelatin salads in vibrant colors, fancy Jell-O molds, and elaborate shrimp cocktail towers. While these dishes may not have been the culinary masterpieces we might expect today, they sure were a conversation starter and made the holiday meals feel special.
The 70s had a flair for cocktails, especially during the holiday season. Popular drinks like Glögg, a warm, spiced wine, Caribbean Punch, a tropical mix of rum and fruit juices, and the indulgent Golden Cadillac became staples at festive parties. These drinks were often served in fun, decorative glasses, and they helped set the tone for the holiday season’s celebrations.
One of the most cherished Christmas traditions of the 70s was the Christmas light tour. Families would pile into the car and drive through their neighborhoods, admiring the extravagant Christmas light displays. Every street was a winter wonderland, from twinkling rooftop lights to giant inflatable Santas. This tradition was about more than just the decorations—it was about coming together as a family to enjoy the magic of the season.
Long before online shopping, the Sears Christmas Wish Book was every child’s dream come true. This annual catalog was filled with toys, gadgets, and gifts, and it was an exciting part of holiday preparation. Kids would eagerly flip through the pages, circling their favorite items and dreaming of everything they hoped to find under the tree. It was the ultimate guide to holiday wish lists and added to the excitement of Christmas.
Visiting the local department store was a must-do during the holidays. It wasn’t just about shopping but about marveling at the elaborate window displays. Department stores like Macy’s went all out with these seasonal showcases, often featuring moving figures, snowy scenes, and even animatronic displays. Watching these displays felt like stepping into a holiday fantasy, and they made the season feel even more magical.
For kids in the 70s, the TV specials were an essential part of the Christmas tradition. Shows like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and The Year Without a Santa Claus were must-watch events. Families would gather around the television to enjoy these classic specials, and they became a holiday tradition that felt as comforting as the season itself. These shows are still beloved today, continuing to spread Christmas cheer each year.
The 70s were the golden age of vinyl, and Christmas albums were a big part of the holiday season. Records like The Partridge Family Christmas Album and The Brady Bunch Christmas Album filled homes with festive tunes. The warmth of the vinyl crackling in the background made the season feel even more special, and these albums became part of the soundtrack to many families’ holiday celebrations.
ScreenshotIn the 70s, capturing family memories through photography became even more popular. Christmas was a time to get new cameras, and many families received Kodak cameras as gifts. It wasn’t uncommon for parents to take pictures of the kids in front of the tree or during the gift exchange. These photographs became cherished memories, often displayed in family albums and passed down as part of the holiday tradition.