As the holidays are just around the corner, plans are being made by students at St. Petersburg High School to decide what they should do to celebrate. Whether it’s festive parties with friends or themed movie marathons, there is plenty to do this December. Especially now that midterms have been canceled (?), there is more time to plan in advance.
In the upcoming months, a variety of holidays are celebrated across the world. Traditions, celebrations, festivals. From Halloween to Thanksgiving and the plethora of December holidays, students and teachers alike reminisce on their upcoming traditions to make their holiday unforgettable.
The highly celebrated December holiday known as Christmas, brings people together through the celebration of the past year, and all of the years to come. While some celebrate the holiday for the religious aspect, Katerina Tamburdzhiyska (9), says that she cherishes the holiday because “When [her] family gathers together [for the holiday], [they] make lasting memories while exchanging gifts” Tamburdzhiyska (9) said. Shay Calkins (9) celebrates the Lutheran holiday Reformation Day, which honors the implementation of the religion. Celebrated on the 31st of October, Calkins goes to church with her family and partakes in a service that celebrates the origins of Martin Luther’s 95 Theses through readings, acting, and discussions about the history. Calkins recently visited Germany with her grandmother over the summer, where the Theses are posted on the door of the Castle Church. “Lutherans are very tight and loving, like a big family. So, in a way we are all connected through the love and faith of the world.” Calkins (9) says.
Tyler Chau (10), having recently moved back home from Hillsborough County, plans to celebrate New Years by driving down to the St. Petersburg pier with his family and sit by the edge of the water to watch the fireworks. “Kids playing in the street; it’s really wholesome, and I used to do that when I was younger too. As well as watching the fireworks and thinking about everything that happened in the past year, and the years to come. It’s truly special”. Chau (10) says.
Tylea Calhoun (12) celebrates Thanksgiving with her family. On that day, a wishbone is hidden throughout the house and is “broken between whoever finds it first and whoever they are next to”. Calhoun (12) says. “We also gather around and sing an old hymn that has been passed down for five generations before we eat dinner to honor my late grandmother, blessing the food before we eat.” Thanksgiving is celebrated to honor family and unity, and what Calhoun is thankful for this year is the close relationships she
has with her family.
No matter what holiday students at SPHS celebrate; they are sure to be remembered for the years to come. Bringing people together, all festivities that take place in the winter months are special for any reason, sparking joy or memories that make people feel better. Have a safe and happy holiday season from Palmetto and Pine!
