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13 Christmas Traditions from the 70s We Wish Would Make a Comeback

The 1970s were a simpler time when Christmas was about more than just gifts and shopping. It was about family, nostalgia, and fun traditions that created lasting memories.

Today, some of those holiday rituals have faded into the past, but they hold a special charm that many of us miss. From unique decorations to cozy family activities, here are 13 Christmas traditions from the 70s that we wish would make a comeback!

Homemade Christmas Ornaments

Image Credit: DepositPhotos

In the 70s, crafting your own Christmas ornaments was the norm. Families would spend time together making everything from popcorn garlands to salt dough figures.

These handmade decorations brought a personal touch to the tree and added an extra layer of warmth to the holidays.

The Advent Calendar Countdown

Image Credit: DepositPhotos

Advent calendars in the 70s were much more than just chocolates behind doors—they were often filled with tiny toys, quotes, or messages that made the days leading up to Christmas feel magical. There’s something special about having a physical reminder each day of the season’s joy.

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Watching Classic Christmas Specials on TV

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Before the streaming era, families would gather around the TV to watch beloved Christmas specials like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman. These annual broadcasts were a shared experience that brought everyone together in anticipation of the season’s best stories.

The Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Image Credit: DepositPhotos

In the 70s, it was common to attend a candlelight service on Christmas Eve. It wasn’t just a religious ritual—it was a peaceful, reflective way to usher in Christmas Day.

The soft glow of candles and the beautiful hymns created a calming atmosphere that set the tone for the holiday.

Wrapping Gifts in Brown Paper

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Instead of flashy gift bags or store-bought wrapping paper, many families in the 70s wrapped gifts in simple brown paper, sometimes decorated with stamps, ribbons, or hand-drawn designs. This eco-friendly and personal touch made the gifts even more special.

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The Christmas Tree Tinsel

Image Credit: Paige B / Flickr

Before the era of artificial snow or modern garlands, tinsel was the go-to decoration for Christmas trees in the 70s. Strands of shiny silver tinsel were carefully placed on each branch, making the tree sparkle like a holiday beacon.

It may have been messy, but it added a magical gleam to the festivities.

Christmas Caroling

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Caroling wasn’t just something you saw on TV—it was a neighborhood tradition. Groups of friends and family would walk through neighborhoods, singing classic Christmas songs.

The joy of spreading holiday cheer door-to-door created a sense of community and connection during the season.

The Yule Log on TV

Image Credit: John / Flickr

Before everyone had their own fireplaces, the Yule Log TV broadcast became a cherished part of Christmas for many. The soothing crackle of the fire and the flickering flames added to the cozy vibe of the holidays.

Some people would even decorate the TV screen to make it feel like a real fire!

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Holiday Mistletoe Kisses

Image Credit: Marlena Sergot / Flickr

Mistletoe may still hang above doorways today, but in the 70s, it was part of an even more lively holiday tradition. Couples and friends would sneak under the mistletoe for a kiss, and it often led to fun, light-hearted moments of laughter and romance.

Christmas Stocking Surprises

Image Credit: DepositPhotos

The stockings in the 70s weren’t just filled with candy—though that was a big part of it! Often, they would include small, quirky toys, puzzles, or even handmade gifts. These personal touches made stocking stuffers feel even more thoughtful and exciting.

Making Gingerbread Houses

Image Credit: Ocean House & Weekapaug Inn / Flickr

Before they became a popular commercial activity, making gingerbread houses was a hands-on holiday tradition for families in the 70s. People would bake the gingerbread, cut it into pieces, and then decorate their houses with candies and icing.

It was a fun way to bond over a creative holiday project.

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Christmas Eve Pajama Tradition

Image Credit: Daybreak Dyeworks / Flickr

In the 70s, it was common for families to open one gift on Christmas Eve, and often, that gift would be matching pajamas. These cozy, festive pajamas became a way for families to bond as they prepared for Christmas morning in style.

Setting Out Cookies and Milk for Santa

Image Credit: amanda.m. / Flickr

This beloved tradition of leaving cookies and milk for Santa may still be going strong, but the 70s brought a certain joy to this ritual. Kids would often bake the cookies themselves, leaving a handwritten note for Santa along with the snack.

It felt like an act of kindness that made the magic of Christmas morning feel real.

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