The first year with a baby is full of "first time" moments. First smile, first tooth, first Christmas. Traditions and celebrations give these moments an extra frame — from a christening or naming ceremony to baby's first holiday season.
Here is your guide to celebrating holidays and creating meaningful traditions with a baby, with practical tips for planning and celebration.
Christening
Christening remains a common way to welcome a new baby for many families. The ceremony takes place in a church and typically includes godparents who commit to supporting the child's upbringing.
When and how
Most families choose to christen their baby within the first six months, but there is no deadline. Contact your local church or parish to arrange a date. The christening usually takes place during a regular Sunday service.
You choose godparents — typically two to four people who will be present throughout the child's life. The number and requirements for godparents vary by denomination, so check with your church.
The christening gown
A white christening gown is a beloved tradition in many families. Many use heirloom gowns that have been passed down through generations. If you don't have access to one, it is common to buy or have one made.
Some churches and parishes have christening gowns available to borrow. Ask your pastor or church office. It is completely normal and a lovely way to honor tradition without a large expense.
The christening reception
After the ceremony, family and godparents typically gather for a celebration. Everything from simple coffee and cake at home to a larger dinner at a restaurant is common. There are no fixed rules — do what feels right for your family.
A classic christening spread might include:
- Finger sandwiches and savory bites
- A layered celebration cake
- Coffee and light pastries
Naming ceremony — the secular alternative
More and more families choose a naming ceremony instead of, or in addition to, a christening. A naming ceremony is a non-religious celebration marking the baby and the name you have chosen.
How to arrange a naming ceremony
There is no fixed template. You can do it entirely your own way:
- Venue: At home, in a park, at a café, or in an event space
- Timing: When it suits you — many choose 2–4 months after birth
- Program: A short speech about the name and why you chose it, perhaps a small ceremony where supporters/godparents pledge to be present for the child
- Tone: Serious, fun, formal, or relaxed — you decide
Many humanist and civil celebrant services offer naming ceremony ceremonies. They have experienced officiants who can help with planning and conducting the ceremony. Search online for civil celebrants in your area.
Baby's first Christmas
The first Christmas with a baby is magical — and chaotic. Here are tips for making it cozy without burning out.
Christmas Eve or Christmas Day
- Lower your expectations. A baby does not care about a perfect holiday spread. Simple food and a calm atmosphere are more than enough
- Unwrap gifts gradually. Too many presents at once overwhelm small children. Spread them out over several days if possible
- Keep the routines. Try to maintain a reasonably normal bedtime, even with guests around
- Think safety. Christmas tree, lights, and decorations fascinate crawling babies. Anchor the tree and use LED lights
Christmas traditions for young babies
- Let the baby touch a pine branch (smell and texture)
- Play Christmas songs and dance with the baby in your arms
- Take a photo in front of the Christmas tree every year — it becomes a lovely tradition
Easter with a baby
Easter is a popular time for family gatherings and, depending on where you live, outdoor activities. With a baby, it helps to adjust your ambitions.
Tips for Easter with a baby
- Baby does not need complicated plans. A short outing in a carrier or stroller is often plenty
- Sunscreen and a sun hat. Spring sun can be strong, even for babies. Use high SPF and keep the baby in the shade
- Easter eggs for babies. Fill plastic eggs with age-safe items — a small soft toy, or colorful stacking rings
Easter eggs with chocolate and small pieces are a choking hazard for children under 3 years. Use large, age-safe items inside the eggs.
Baby's first birthday
The first birthday is just as much for the parents as for the baby. The baby will not remember it, but it is a wonderful milestone — you survived the first year.
Keep it simple:
- Close family and a few friends
- A simple cake the baby can taste (and smash)
- Balloons and music
- A little photo corner for memories
Read also: Tips for your baby's first birthday.
Create your own traditions
The most cherished traditions are often the ones you invent yourself:
- Monthly photos. Take a photo of the baby next to the same stuffed animal each month in the first year. The growth becomes visible
- Sunday walk. A regular weekly outing to the same place. The child will start to recognize the trees, birds, and path
- Goodnight song. A specific song you sing every evening. Simple, but it creates security
- First-time book. Write down all the "first time" moments in a baby journal or memory book
Frequently asked questions
Do we have to choose between a christening and a naming ceremony?
No, you can have both. Some families christen the baby in a church and have a naming ceremony later with friends. Others choose just one. There are no rules — do what feels right for your family.
When should we hold a christening?
The most common time is between 2 and 6 months, but there is no deadline. Some wait until the baby is six months or older. Contact your church for available dates.
Do we need godparents for a naming ceremony?
There are no formal requirements, but many families choose to appoint "supporting adults" or "life witnesses" as a parallel to godparents. It is a meaningful gesture that gives selected adults a special role in the child's life.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics. "Safe Holiday Celebrations with Young Children." AAP, 2024.
- CPSC. "Holiday Safety Tips for Families." U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 2024.