Snow is falling and there is the distinct sound of Mariah Carey singing in the distance… That’s right, it’s Christmas on Hampton Lane! As NDP fills with the sound of holiday joy, I decided to ask everyone two things: what their favorite holiday movie was and their favorite NDP Christmas tradition. (After all, one of the best parts of the Christmas season is all the fun activities we do here!)
As I asked around for holiday movie faves, Home Alone was a popular choice among my fellow Blazers. Ms. Yakim, Lelia W. ’27, and Santanna B. ’28 said The Grinch (specifically the live-action with Jim Carrey, though personally I prefer the old 1960s version.) Abby M ’25 said A Muppets Christmas Carol, along with Anna C ’27. They said it was absolutely hilarious and that everyone should watch it. Katelyn M ’26 said Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas, a cute Disney special with several holiday shorts about giving and loving others. Francesca H. ’27 said the Princess Switch, a cute rom-com set during the Christmas season. Aislinn M. ’27 said she loves A Year Without a Santa Claus, a movie with great tunes that no one seems to know. Finally, for a little, or a lot, more action, Ella M. ’26 said Die Hard (though I am not completely sure she was not joking.)
However, movies are not the only things bringing a little Christmas cheer! NDP is just full of different holiday traditions, like Tree Trim, CCAP Christmas families, and the Christmas concert, just to name a few. Everyone had different opinions for the best tradition, but the majority of people said Christmas Mass. It is just so beautiful and this year’s “Oh Holy Night” solo will be sung by our amazing Abby Bilenki ’25! Jillian N. ’27, Margaret R. ’26, and Norah R. ’26 all said that the candles are their favorite part of Christmas Mass. Taylor F. ’26, and Charlotte B. ’27 all said that they love when the chorus sings “Oh Holy Night”. Bella C. ’27 said that “Oh Holy Night” makes the auditorium feel holier and that it gives the basic auditorium the feel of a gorgeous cathedral. Jahniya B. ’25 and Gisela R. ’25 love Christmas Mass, but they also said that they love the Christmas concert. (They are amazing violinists after all.) Lily O’Brien ’28, Emma S. ’27, and Julia T ’28 say that Tree Trim, another popular tradition, is their favorite. (The home-baked cookies were SO good!!)
Christmas at NDP is one of the best times of the year, with everyone full of joy for Christmas (and the upcoming break!). As we head towards the holiday, make sure you enjoy this year’s NDP Christmas traditions, grab some hot cocoa, and snuggle up to watch some fun holiday movies. Merry Christmas everyone!!