Lisa O
A Baby Boomer’s Christmas memories bring to mind simpler times compared to how we celebrate today. There were more handmade decorations and gifts, fewer lights and stockings, and trees had more affordable presents. But the love and giving spirit? Just as strong as ever. Here are 15 things Boomers loved about Christmas in the ‘60s and ‘70s.
Special Christmas Cards
In the ‘60s and ‘70s, Boomers swapped Christmas cards that often showed off pictures of famous places. Cards back then were way more fun and full of personality compared to today’s. The glittery ones and those with Victorian London street scenes really stood out and stuck in people’s minds as special holiday memories.
Colorful Wrapping Papers
One of the best memories Boomers hold onto is the old-school wrapping paper. The ribbons, bows, and all those colorful, creative designs were such a treat. Wrapping gifts was its own kind of fun—imagining how Mom, Dad, or one of your brothers would light up when they tore it open. And those classic Christmas tags? They were just as magical.
Playing in Snow
Out on the snowy streets, Boomers would play for hours, only heading inside long enough to warm up their frozen fingers and toes. Moms always had a hot lunch waiting. Christmas cheer was in the air! From building snowmen and forts to sliding around on icy roads, Boomers made the most of every bit of it. Epic snowball fights and games of the army were all the rage back then.
Christmas Candy
The old candy dish filled with hard Christmas candy was a staple in every Boomer household—usually parked near the tree. Somehow, Mom could hear us digging around in it, even from another room. These candies came in all kinds of flavors, but for some reason, the favorite one always seemed to be buried at the bottom of the dish.
Christmas Shopping With Family
Those were the good old days when family Christmas shopping was in full swing. Boomers loved riding in the backseat while Mom and Dad chatted away. The radio played Do You Hear What I Hear and the usual lineup of holiday tunes. Christmas lights were everywhere—on rooftops, buildings, stores, even shrubs—as we drove by. The streets were bustling, people seemed happy, and everything felt so full of life.
Writing Checks For Giving Money
Remember checks? Those little paper slips where you had to carefully write out amounts and sign your name? Boomers grew up managing their finances this way, and many still prefer it to digital payments. While younger people tap and swipe their way through transactions, Boomers stick to the satisfying ritual of writing a check when gifting money.
Handwritten Letters
Imagine sitting down to write a letter in today’s email-driven world. For Boomers, this tradition added a personal touch that digital messages can’t match. Though rare now, handwritten letters carried real sentimental value and showed genuine thought and effort. Back then, Boomers handwrote all the Christmas letters and sent them out days before the holiday so they could arrive on time.
Sending Thank You Notes
Gratitude runs deep for Baby Boomers, who still swear by a handwritten thank-you note. When they got gifts or holiday wishes from family and friends at Christmas or Thanksgiving, Boomers always made sure to send a note back. Even though texting or emailing is way quicker, older generations still love putting together thoughtful messages on nicestationery.
Christmas Photo Albums
Scrolling through digital photos is easy, but there’s something very special about flipping through a physical photo album. Baby Boomers hold onto these memory books with printed pictures that capture those priceless moments. Christmas photos with friends and family are a tangible link to the past, and they bring good memories to life in a way digital images just can’t.
Going To Our Friend’s House
We all used to head over to a relative or friend’s house for Christmas celebrations, but the way we found our way there was different back then. While GPS is the go-to for directions today, Baby Boomers relied on maps and atlases. They loved getting the big picture and enjoyed the challenge of figuring out their routes.
Sherry Trifle and Rum-Soaked Fruitcake
Christmas desserts were always a big deal. Boomers loved digging into a tasty sherry trifle made by their grandmas, with layers of sponge cake, fruit, and creamy custard. They also couldn’t get enough of the rich, rum-soaked fruitcake with marzipan—a holiday classic and usually homemade. These treats brought a warm feel to Christmas gatherings and were always a hit with everyone around the table.
Visiting the Cemetery to Remember Loved Ones
A meaningful tradition for Boomers was visiting the cemetery at Christmas to lay a wreath on the graves of their grandparents and parents. It was a very thoughtful way to remember those who weren’t there to celebrate with them. It also gave Boomers a chance to honor their loved ones and keep them part of the holiday spirit.
Hiding Terry’s Chocolate Oranges
A fun tradition for Boomers was hiding Terry’s Chocolate Oranges around the house for the kids to find. They’d give little clues to help the kids track down these yummy treats. The thrill of the hunt and the joy of discovering the chocolate made it a standout moment of Christmas for so many families.
Christmas Eve Service
Going to a Christmas Eve service was a big part of the holiday for Boomers. They’d gather at church to sing all their favorite carols. Afterward, they’d go back home, hang their stockings by the fire, and then wait for what Santa would bring (something that you were asking from your parents). It was a magical time of singing, celebrating life, and getting ready for the Christmas day ahead.
Colorful Christmas Crackers
Christmas crackers were a must-have for Boomers. They’d pick up these colorful treats for dinner to make the whole Christmas vibe more fun. Every single person would have a cracker at their place with some kind of Boomers used to do this to make dinner feel more special and put a smile on everyone’s face.