There’s a special feeling that fills Lubbock Impact every December; a sense of comfort, excitement, and togetherness that only the Christmas season seems to bring. This year’s Christmas Around the World party brought that feeling to life in the most heartfelt way.
The day before the party St. Clair Orthodontics and the Texas Tech Mental Health Initiative volunteers, spent the morning baking cookies and turning Lubbock Impact into an international Christmas themed party for guests. Their support helped us create a festive space for sugar cookie decorating and lots of nachos for dinner.
Even before the doors opened, families were waiting outside, bundled against the cold, ready for an evening they look forward to each year. When participants walked in, they received a simple “passport” and then wandered freely through the building, exploring different traditions and experiences from around the world at their own pace.
Some drifted toward Japan, where they folded origami paper fans, sampled miso cookies, and admired the kokeshi dolls and chopsticks on display. Others made their way to the bright, colorful world of Mexico, piecing together poinsettias and unwrapping marzipan with delight. A steady stream of guests found themselves drawn to Germany, where they learned about St. Nicholas Day, colored cheerful Christmas shoes, and shared Kinder chocolates with friends.
There was no rush, no set path, just families and friends taking in the evening, however it suited them, enjoying the simple fun of discovering something new.
In the sanctuary, SEEK Homeschool performed a live nativity sharing the story of Jesus’ birth. Offering a quiet moment in the middle of the festivities that reminded everyone why we celebrate this season in the first place. Between cookie decorating, Christmas crafts, and conversations with friends, joy seemed to settle over the building in the softest, sweetest way.
What makes nights like this so meaningful is that, for many of our participants, the holidays come with real stress; financial pressure, worry, and figuring out childcare for kids out of school for holidays. But during events like this one, you can actually see those burdens lift for a little while. Smiles widen, laughter gets louder, and families simply enjoy being together.
We wrapped up the evening just in time for everyone to step outside and enjoy the Miracle on 34th Street Christmas Parade. Our friends at Starbucks once again provided hot chocolate and treats, making the parade feel extra cozy for everyone gathering outside our doors.
All night long, participants told us how much they look forward to this celebration; how it gives them something joyful to anticipate and a place where the Christmas season feels a little brighter. Offering a free, welcoming, and memorable experience for families who carry so much throughout the year is one of the greatest privileges we have.
This year’s Christmas party wasn’t just about activities or decorations.
It was about moments of joy, shared memories, and the simple sweetness of setting aside stress for an evening of warmth and community.
And we’re so grateful we got to celebrate it together.