One of the highlights of the holiday season is taking part in festive rituals, many of which may have been passed down through generations. Those who celebrate Christmas may gather to sing carols, drink wassail, or drive around the neighborhood admiring creative light displays. Jewish families gather to light menorah candles for the eight nights of Hanukkah, play dreidel, and share plates of latkes. We all engage in holiday rituals that give us a sense of belonging and peace. But sometimes we can all use a change of routine, and there’s nothing wrong with shaking things up a bit!

The people of Caracas, Venezuela, have done just that. In Caracas, Christmas is celebrated from December 16 to 24, and during this time, city streets are closed before 8 a.m. so that citizens can roller-skate to early morning Christmas mass! Adding to the fun, children along the route tie strings to their toes and dangle their feet out the window of their houses, and the roller-skaters give the strings a tug of greeting as they pass. In some places, celebrants set off firecrackers and ring bells to wake people up for the service! When mass is over, families enjoy a meal of tostadas and coffee.

This holiday season, we could all learn a thing or two from the people of Caracas. Coming up with a unique tradition centered on fun and fellowship gives you a more personal ritual to look forward to. There’s nothing wrong with traditional holiday rituals, of course, but getting creative is a great way to make holiday activities more personal and participatory. What might you do differently this year?