The hottest Holidays Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Bring back the Based Old Halloween Ways

Blackbird Spyplane • 1079 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Halloween used to be all about creativity, like making your own costumes with your family. Nowadays, it's more about buying cheap, mass-produced outfits from big stores.
  2. Trick-or-treating has become limited to specific areas, which takes away the fun of exploring neighborhoods and meeting neighbors.
  3. There's a push to return to the good old days of Halloween, where unique, homemade costumes and engaging with the community are the main focus.

SITREP - 10/27/2024

THREE SEVEN MAFIA • 619 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. The recent visit to the Confederate Mound was a big success with great weather and positive vibes.
  2. The writer is dealing with rheumatoid disease, which sometimes affects their ability to work, but they appreciate everyone's understanding.
  3. There are plans to share updates and content soon after returning from a trip to Portland, including a Halloween celebration.

Why the Drunken, Brawling Irish Got Me Thinking About Hannah Gadsby

I Might Be Wrong • 9 implied HN points • 20 Mar 26
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. St. Patrick’s Day commonly leans on flamboyant, non-PC Irish stereotypes—heavy drinking, fake accents, and leprechaun imagery—that most people treat as harmless fun.
  2. Because Irish people in America and Ireland have largely become socially and economically successful, those stereotypes are often shrugged off rather than seen as problematic.
  3. That contrast highlights Hannah Gadsby’s point in Nanette: self-deprecating humor can humiliate people who already exist on the margins, so marginalized comedians may rightly refuse to keep using it.
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This Week in American History: Just Call It Washington’s Birthday

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 255 implied HN points • 11 Feb 26
💾 History Holidays
  1. Presidents’ Day often feels like a bland, catch-all holiday that treats all presidents the same and can come off like a participation trophy.
  2. In 1798 John Adams caused a stir in Philadelphia when a brusque letter saying he would decline a ball honoring George Washington’s birthday was published.
  3. Americans honored Washington in part because he voluntarily retired after two terms, and that decision became a prized precedent worth celebrating.

Holiday practice

Austin Kleon • 5275 implied HN points • 12 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Artists need to create to feel their best. Taking breaks is okay, but too long without art can make life harder.
  2. Finding small ways to practice art during busy times, like the holidays, helps keep us feeling whole. Even a little time for creativity matters.
  3. Making space and time for creativity is key. You can get creative with when and where you practice, like being active when others are asleep or using portable materials.

What We’re Grateful For

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 857 implied HN points • 27 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. People are grateful for family, friends, and workplace communities that show up in hard times and make holidays and everyday life feel meaningful.
  2. They value small pleasures and shared experiences — good food, live music, movies, games, and little rituals like candles or chess — because those moments create joy and connection.
  3. There is deep gratitude for health, medical care, and acts of generosity like organ donation and hospice, which can save lives, bring healing, and offer closure.

Solstice vibes

Austin Kleon • 4556 implied HN points • 22 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Reading is about choosing to read one book over many others. It's okay to not read every book out there.
  2. Music can be a great escape when feeling tired of other interests. Sometimes, music books can reignite that passion for reading.
  3. TV shows can be a fun distraction. It's nice to find joy in watching something simple and entertaining, especially during the holidays.

Merry Christmas 2025

Computer Ads from the Past • 384 implied HN points • 28 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. The message arrived later than planned because life got in the way.
  2. Warm holiday wishes are offered, saying Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to readers.
  3. There’s a hope the new year will bring more retro computer nerdiness and related content.

Is Black Friday a Spell?

Altered States of Monetary Consciousness • 609 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. What began as an outside description was turned into a marketing command: companies named and promoted Black Friday until people treated it as something they had to take part in.
  2. Words and slogans can make things real — marketers use speech acts and interpellation to address people as if the shopping event already exists, which pulls people into the behavior.
  3. Many celebrations have been hollowed out into occasions that demand buying, and Black Friday is the clearest example of a festival whose only meaning is commerce.

A Man Should Know: How to Travel

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 352 implied HN points • 05 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Keep travel civil: don't treat the airport like your living room and behave with courtesy toward others.
  2. Dress with a little respect — looking put-together can help you and others act more politely while traveling.
  3. Find a balance between comfort and common courtesy, and be willing to skip a trip if it's not worth the stress or hassle.

Merry Christmas

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 251 implied HN points • 25 Dec 25
🍲 Food & Drink Holidays
  1. Spending Christmas in Dresden with cold, clear air and a cozy menu of fondue tonight and a traditional goose tomorrow, paired with a Grüner Veltliner and a Brunello di Montalcino.
  2. There was an intention to write about U.S. visa sanctions aimed at Thierry Breton and organisations like the Centre for Countering Digital Hate, Global Disinformation Index, and Hate Aid, but that political piece was put off for now.
  3. Warm holiday wishes and optimism for 2026 are sent to readers, along with an invitation for people to share what they’re up to and how things are going in their corner of the world.

Open Thread 361

Astral Codex Ten • 4336 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. You can share or discuss anything you like in the open thread. It's a space to ask questions and engage with others.
  2. There’s a survey for the community that you can fill out. The deadline is January 5, and reminders will keep coming until then.
  3. Happy holidays! Expect fewer posts until January, as the posting schedule will be lighter during this time.

How Do You Fall in Love with the In-Between?

Culture Study • 3654 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. During the holiday season, routines often get disrupted, creating a feeling of being in limbo. This time can be uncomfortable, but it's also a chance to slow down and just be.
  2. It's easy to fill free time with plans and activities as a way to feel accomplished. However, true rest might mean letting go of the need to constantly do something.
  3. The liminal space we find ourselves in during the holidays can spark reflection. It's a good time to think about what really matters to us and how we want to spend our time, even if that means not making plans at all.

It's Time for the 2024 HOLIDAY GIFT CONCIERGE!!!

Culture Study • 2500 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. The community has raised over $5,000 to help refugee families settle into their new homes, aiming for at least $10,000 to cover more essential items.
  2. There’s a fun gift concierge thread where community members can get personalized gift suggestions for their loved ones based on their unique tastes.
  3. The joy of giving and supporting small businesses through thoughtful gift giving can really make a positive impact, especially during the holiday season.

Halloween has gone full brain rot

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2597 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Halloween costumes are now often based on internet memes, reflecting how much online culture influences our lives. Instead of traditional costumes, many people dress as viral moments or characters from social media.
  2. The trend of meme costumes can create confusion and alienation at Halloween parties. Costumes that depend on obscure references can make it hard for people to connect and enjoy the holiday together.
  3. Despite some people wanting a return to classic costumes, meme costumes allow for more creativity and self-expression. They let us remember and reflect on our shared experiences in today's internet-driven world.

The Absurd Genius of Netflix Christmas Films

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1743 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Netflix's holiday films, like 'Hot Frosty,' are intentionally over-the-top and silly. They embrace a kind of absurdity that attracts viewers despite being labeled as bad.
  2. Despite awful reviews, these films become hugely popular, sometimes hitting top viewership numbers on Netflix. People enjoy them even when critics don't.
  3. This phenomenon shows how different audiences have varying tastes. Some viewers love the escapism and fun of these cheesy holiday movies.

The Other Christmas Classics

Animation Obsessive • 1524 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. There are unique Christmas films from other countries that aren't well-known in the U.S.
  2. These films have become holiday classics in their own nations, just like American favorites.
  3. They often reflect local traditions and humor, making them special for their audiences.

sunday memepool

bad cattitude • 92 implied HN points • 07 Dec 25
😂 Humor Holidays
  1. The holiday season brings a mix of excitement and challenges. It's a time for celebration but can also be stressful for many.
  2. People often look for ways to enjoy the holidays, whether through family gatherings or personal victories.
  3. Preparing for the holidays can help create lasting memories, even amidst the hustle and bustle.

Reader Question - Dealing with Diet Culture at the Holidays

Weight and Healthcare • 758 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Holidays
  1. During the holiday season, there is often an increase in diet culture behaviors like food policing and body shaming.
  2. Strategies like ignoring/responding silently, setting boundaries, and engaging in conversations can help navigate inappropriate comments about food and body during gatherings.
  3. It's important to prioritize enjoying meals in peace and remember that others' opinions about our food choices are not our concern.

Tomorrow is February

Austin Kleon • 2058 implied HN points • 31 Jan 23
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. February is the shortest month, making it a good time to start new habits or challenges. You could try reading more, journaling, or even going for daily walks.
  2. Many cultures have special days in February to look forward to, like Imbolc and Candlemas, which can help bring a bit of hope during the winter months.
  3. It's okay to take it easy in February. It's a time to go with the flow rather than force productivity, maybe even pampering yourself a bit with activities that bring joy.

XZ Backdoor: Times, damned times, and scams

Rhea's Substack • 254 HN points • 30 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Holidays
  1. The recent discovery of a backdoor in the xz/liblzma tarball raises concerns about trust in the free software ecosystem.
  2. Analyzing the time patterns of code commits can reveal valuable insights about a developer's work habits and potential attempts at deception.
  3. Changing time zones to manipulate commit timestamps can be a deceptive tactic in software development, but inconsistencies can ultimately reveal the truth.

Merry Christmas, Dear Substackers!

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 479 implied HN points • 24 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Sending warm wishes to everyone during the holiday season is important. It's a time to show love and connection.
  2. Family gatherings create joy and pride during celebrations like Christmas. The happiness of children adds to the festive spirit.
  3. Decorating and preparing for Christmas is a fun activity. It brings excitement and anticipation for the festivities ahead.

sunday memepool

bad cattitude • 77 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Holidays can be really stressful for many people. It's important to remember that not everyone experiences them the same way.
  2. Stress levels during the holidays vary from person to person. Some may find joy and relaxation, while others feel overwhelmed.
  3. Finding ways to cope with holiday stress is key. Simple strategies can help make the season more enjoyable for yourself and others.

Taking the Holidays Off

Pizza Party • 84 implied HN points • 19 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Taking time off for the holidays is important for everyone, including yourself. Remember to enjoy the break and make it special.
  2. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on gratitude and appreciate what you have. It's a good reminder to be thankful for everything in life.
  3. The holidays are meant to celebrate togetherness and joy. Embrace the festive spirit and set personal goals for the new year ahead.

December 24, 2025

Letters from an American • 34 implied HN points • 25 Dec 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Holidays
  1. Warm holiday wishes are offered to everyone, whether they celebrate or not.
  2. There is gratitude for those who are fortunate this year to have a roof over their heads, food to eat, and loved ones nearby.
  3. There is empathy for people who are struggling and a hopeful reminder that Christmas marks the time when the light starts to return.

Ravings of a Christmas Hater

Handwaving Freakoutery • 611 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Gift-giving during Christmas can feel overwhelming and stressful for some people. It creates pressure to find the perfect gift while also considering social status and connections.
  2. The holiday has become heavily focused on consumerism and materialism, overshadowing its original spirit and purpose. People often feel rushed and distracted from enjoying the true meaning of the season.
  3. Some people prefer holidays like Thanksgiving that emphasize togetherness and gratitude without the burden of gift-giving. Simple celebrations can sometimes be more fulfilling than elaborate traditions.

Merry Christmas 2024

Computer Ads from the Past • 512 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. The newsletter has grown from 1,365 to almost 2,000 subscribers. It's nice to see a community growing around shared interests.
  2. The author wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and hopes for a happy New Year.
  3. There's a hope to reach 3,000 subscribers by next year, showing a positive outlook for the future.

On Valentine's Day

Welcome to Garbagetown • 833 implied HN points • 14 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Valentine's Day is a significant holiday worth celebrating, regardless of relationship status
  2. Holidays and rituals are important as they mark time and bring joy and pleasure to life
  3. Valentine's Day has a deeper meaning rooted in history and symbolism, making it more than just a commercialized celebration

We Are Now 31,000 Strong, Happy Holidays!

The DisInformation Chronicle • 335 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. The holiday season in Spain lasts a long time, starting from Christmas Eve and going until January 6. It's a festive time filled with celebrations.
  2. There's a growing community supporting The DisInformation Chronicle, with subscriptions surpassing 31,000. This shows that many people find value in the content.
  3. Taking time to enjoy food, friends, and family during the holidays is important, especially for those who often work hard. It's a reminder to relax and appreciate life.

Safe Holidays

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 24 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Holidays
  1. Take a break and enjoy some time off during the holidays. It's important to relax and refresh.
  2. Consider supporting causes that matter, like donating to help Ukraine. Every little bit can make a difference.
  3. Stay safe while celebrating with family and friends. Prioritize health and well-being during this festive season.

November 26, 2025

Letters from an American • 28 implied HN points • 27 Nov 25
💾 History Holidays
  1. Thanksgiving began with a 1621 harvest shared by Pilgrims and Wampanoag people, and that story was later revived in the 1800s to promote national unity.
  2. During the Civil War the holiday’s meaning shifted to acknowledge sacrifice and boost morale, with leaders and Lincoln declaring national days of Thanksgiving after key Union victories like Gettysburg and Vicksburg.
  3. Lincoln framed Thanksgiving around the nation’s founding ideals and the end of slavery, calling for a "new birth of freedom" and using the holiday to celebrate the preservation of the Union and emancipation.

Miami meetup with Rob Henderson

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 303 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. There will be a meetup in Miami on December 28 from 8pm to 11:30pm. It's a good chance to relax and enjoy some new company after the holiday rush.
  2. Previous meetups have been fun and successful, helping people connect and make new friends. Even if you're shy, it's a great way to meet approachable people.
  3. The event will feature interesting guests, including a venture capitalist and the founders of a healthy snack brand. It's a nice opportunity to chat with different people and expand your network.

Holidays, Travel, and Journeys

Cosmographia • 219 implied HN points • 18 Mar 23
🏝 Travel Holidays
  1. The post discusses a trip to Japan for the Rugby World Cup, highlighting experiences like watching rugby and visiting temples.
  2. It mentions transformative experiences in Japan and Africa, suggesting that travel can be a source of personal growth and change.
  3. The content is available for paid subscribers, indicating exclusive access to more travel stories and insights.

forget thanksgiving its time for fearsharing

Both Are True • 301 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Holidays
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Merry Jewish Christmas!

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 13 implied HN points • 25 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. Jewish Christmas is a casual tradition of eating Chinese food, watching a movie, and doing some good-natured kvetching with friends or family. The typical menu includes spring rolls, wonton soup, fried rice or lo mein, General Tso’s (or tofu), and fortune cookies.
  2. The page is kept live all day with amusements to distract from family drama—games, an Ask Me Anything, and a reader-contributed Festivus where people can add their own bits of fun. The intent is lighthearted diversion rather than sharing bad news.
  3. There are strong language pet peeves: don’t use “gifted” as the past tense of “give,” and journalists shouldn’t start claims with “it feels like.” Instead, make clear, specific claims or admit you have none.

Happy New Year!

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 10 implied HN points • 01 Jan 26
🎭️ Culture Holidays
  1. A warm Happy New Year message that wishes readers a wonderful year.
  2. A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who supports the Cosmopolitan Globalist and helped make it possible.
  3. A personal detail about going to bed early with a good book, plus an offer to continue the post for free or to purchase a paid subscription.