Creating Memorable Holidays Away from Home: A Guide for Coast Guard Families

The holiday season can be a challenging time for Coast Guard families, especially when duty stations and deployments mean spending holidays away from home and loved ones. However, with a bit of creativity and connection, Coast Guard families can create meaningful, memorable celebrations no matter where they are stationed. Here are some tips and traditions borrowed from the broader military community to help you make the most of this special season.

1. Create New Traditions for Every Duty Station

One of the joys of military life is the opportunity to experience different locations and cultures. Embrace this by incorporating local customs and traditions into your holiday celebrations. If you’re stationed in an area with unique holiday events or traditions—like parades, festivals, or special food dishes—make them a part of your family’s festivities. Not only does this create lasting memories, but it also helps your family feel more connected to the local community.

Example: If you’re stationed in New England, you might take part in a local winter lighthouse tour. Families stationed on the West Coast could explore coastal holiday light displays, while those overseas can dive into the traditions of their host country.

2. Host a “Friendsgiving” or Holiday Potluck

The Coast Guard family is a close-knit one, and there’s no better time to lean on each other than the holiday season. Host a “Friendsgiving” or holiday potluck with other Coast Guard families who may be away from their extended family. This can become an annual tradition where everyone brings a favorite holiday dish from their family, creating a unique and diverse celebration that reflects the variety of Coast Guard backgrounds.

Pro Tip: Invite new families or single members who might not have a place to go for the holidays. This fosters inclusivity and helps everyone feel part of a supportive community.

3. Connect Virtually with Family and Friends

While being away from loved ones is tough, modern technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected. Schedule video calls with family on important holiday days to make sure everyone feels included. Some families even set up a shared virtual dinner or gift-opening session to recreate the feeling of being together.

Ideas: Try planning an online game night or share a holiday movie over a streaming service that allows virtual watch parties. This adds a touch of home to your holiday celebration, no matter where you are.

4. Bring Holiday Cheer to Your Command or Duty Station

Many military families bring holiday spirit directly to the Coast Guard unit or station. Volunteering to help decorate the base or organize a holiday event for service members who may be on duty is a rewarding way to share the season’s joy. Simple things like stringing lights, organizing a potluck, or hosting a small holiday party can boost morale and bring people together.

Pro Tip: Some Coast Guard units allow family members to bring in homemade holiday treats or host a cookie exchange. This simple gesture goes a long way in building community and spreading cheer.

5. Focus on Giving Back

One of the best ways to find joy during the holiday season is to give back. Many military families make a tradition of volunteering at local food banks, shelters, or community events. Some Coast Guard families organize holiday care packages for deployed members or participate in programs like “Adopt a Military Family,” which helps families in need during the holiday season.

Suggestion: Involve your kids by having them create holiday cards or small gifts to include in care packages for deployed Coast Guard members. It’s a meaningful way to teach them about kindness and gratitude.

6. Create a “Holiday Bucket List”

For families who are new to a duty station, a “Holiday Bucket List” is a fun way to embrace the season. This can include everything from visiting local holiday attractions and exploring festive neighborhoods to trying new holiday recipes or starting a family holiday craft night. Each year, let everyone contribute ideas to make the list unique to your family.

Examples: Include activities like taking family holiday photos in your Coast Guard gear, making ornaments that represent each duty station, or crafting your own decorations with local materials.

7. Keep Old Traditions Alive in New Ways

Just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you have to abandon cherished family traditions. Whether it’s baking a specific holiday treat, watching a favorite movie, or reading a certain book on Christmas Eve, make an effort to incorporate these traditions into your current setting. If necessary, adapt them slightly to fit your location or situation.

Tip: If there’s a tradition you can’t fully recreate (like a big family dinner), consider creating a “holiday care package” from home. Ask family members to send over recipe ingredients, decorations, or little items that remind you of past holidays. This can bring a comforting taste of home to your current setting.

8. Embrace Flexibility and Creativity (I know, but try it!) 

Life as a Coast Guard family often means being flexible and adaptable, and the holiday season is no different. Make the most of unexpected situations by staying open to new experiences. If duty calls and you find yourself celebrating on a different day, embrace it! Some Coast Guard families even create unique names like “Thanksmas” or “Christmas in July” when holidays fall during deployment or duty schedules.

Idea: Document these unique holiday celebrations with photos, journals, or video diaries, creating a lasting family keepsake that celebrates your family’s journey.

Resources for Coast Guard Families During the Holidays

For additional holiday support, these organizations and resources can help Coast Guard families during the holiday season:

• Military OneSource: Offers resources and programs specifically for Coast Guard families, including holiday support and counseling services.

• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance (CGMA): Provides financial assistance and holiday grants to Coast Guard families in need.

• Operation Homefront: Offers holiday programs such as “Holiday Meals for Military” and “Holiday Toy Drive” for military families.

Building Lasting Memories

Holidays away from home can be tough, but they’re also an opportunity to build new memories, strengthen family bonds, and celebrate the unique life of a Coast Guard family. By embracing new traditions, connecting with other families, and focusing on the joy of giving, the holiday season can become one of the most memorable times of the year. With a supportive community and a little creativity, Coast Guard families can make any duty station feel like home for the holidays.