LEXINGTON, Ky. (December 24, 2024) – For most Americans, the holidays are a time to celebrate and say goodbye to another year. It’s a time when families and friends come together to look to the future and get excited about what 2025 might bring. Throughout the celebrations, many people return to old family traditions that have been a part of American culture for years. One of the most popular traditions for many families is watching the annual NBA or NFL games or a college bowl game during the holidays.
Jen Smith, a assistant professor at the University of Kentucky College of Communication and Information, spoke with UKNOW about how sports have shaped holiday traditions. As a professional in the sports journalism industry, Smith has experienced the ups and downs of covering sporting events during the holidays. Reflecting on her experiences, she explained how these traditions developed over time and what they mean to communities across the country.
Speaking of the beginnings of the sporting tradition, Smith said“The idea of a Thanksgiving football game did not receive as much recognition as in 1880, when the game became not only a sporting event, but also a social event,” where people could gather and enjoy the game as a community. .
Smith highlighted the importance of sports during the holidays, explaining how they have become a key part of American celebrations. She noted that these traditions not only bring excitement to the season, but also help strengthen family bonds by creating shared moments of connection.
“Having these big events that lots of people from different generations can connect to is part of the reason it works so well,” she said. “At the Thanksgiving table or the Christmas table, there are so many things that families feel about. I’m uncomfortable talking about it among ourselves, but sport creates a space where everyone feels safe to engage.
Additionally, sports can help those who want to find community and identity during the holidays.
“Along with social media, one of the elements that drives important platforms for the sports industry, like X, is connectivity.“, Smith said. “If I’m a Detroit Lions fan, but I currently live in Arizona, I can still connect with my team’s community through media.”
Although some people may find themselves celebrating the holidays alone, sports can create a sense of connection and belonging.
“Even people who are alone on vacation, they feel less alone because of the community experience that brings people together, no matter where they are in the world,” says Smith.
While sports bring people together during the holidays, some must stay away from their own families so others can enjoy these traditions. Athletes, staff, media and team members work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the games and celebrations run smoothly.
Smith reflected on his experience working in media to cover these major holiday events, explaining the adjustments often made by those in the industry.
“Families adjust to the work schedule and decide to celebrate the day after the holiday,” she said, describing how loved ones adjust to the demands of work. “They get used to knowing you’re not going to be there because it’s a work day, but the media and the athletes make it work.”
His insight highlights the dedication of those who help keep these traditions alive for families watching at home and reflects on the importance of athletes, media staff and crew to these important traditions.
Holiday sports traditions go beyond the games themselves – they represent a celebration of connection, community and shared experiences. Whether it’s families coming together to cheer on their favorite teams or fans finding ways to connect through social media, these traditions have become a treasured part of the season and continue to be a part of American history.
Black-smith invites students interested in exploring the social and community impacts of sports, as well as the challenges faced by sports media professionals, to consider enrolling in two courses: Issues in 21st Century Sports Journalism and Sports Reporting and Editing. Both courses are part of the new certificate in sports communications, media and promotion offered by the college.