Hosting culturally inclusive holiday gatherings

The holiday season is a time for gathering, reflecting, and connecting—and it can also be a meaningful moment to open our homes and traditions to others.

When we include newcomers, friends, or neighbors from different backgrounds in our celebrations, we’re doing more than sharing a meal. We’re helping create a sense of belonging—and bringing the true spirit of welcome to life.

This guide shares simple, practical ways to make your holiday gatherings welcoming, inclusive, and meaningful for everyone at the table.

Lead with a spirit of welcome.

Set the tone early so guests know they belong.

• Create a warm, inviting environment where people feel comfortable being themselves.
• Model curiosity and openness—helping everyone feel included and valued from the start.

Be thoughtful with food and drink.

Food can be one of the easiest ways to help guests feel cared for—especially when everyone’s needs are respected.

• Ask, don’t assume. Dietary practices can be tied to religion, culture, or health. Including everyone’s food preferences helps guests feel comfortable and cared for.
• Let food be a bridge. Invite guests to bring or share a dish that represents their heritage, and share the story behind your own traditions, too.

Create space for storytelling and learning.

A little context goes a long way—and makes traditions feel like an invitation, not an insider club.

• Share the “why” behind your traditions with a short story or reflection on what your holiday practices mean to you.
• Invite guests to share how they celebrate holidays in their culture to spark connection and understanding.

Focus on common themes.

Even when traditions differ, the values underneath them often overlap.

• Many holidays center on gratitude, renewal, generosity, and family—name what unites the group.
• Try simple, shared activities like exchanging words of gratitude, favorite memories, or hopes for the year ahead.

Be mindful of language and symbols.

Small choices in wording and decor can help everyone feel included.

• Use inclusive greetings like “Happy holidays” or “Wishing you joy.”
• When in doubt, choose themes like light, warmth, and togetherness that feel welcoming to all.

Normalize curiosity and cultural exchange.

You don’t have to get everything perfect—what matters most is respect and openness.

• Encourage thoughtful questions and invite guests to guide the conversation in a way thats to understanding.
• Remember: inclusion goes both ways. Welcome others into your traditions, and be open to experiencing theirs.