Holiday traditions probably make you think of family. Maybe you bake the same cookies with your mom every year or watch the same movies with your siblings whenever it snows. Growing up in a family that honors long-standing holiday traditions is great, but adding new traditions with your friends is also important.

What if you can't make it home for the holidays this year? Or what if your family was never big on traditions to begin with? As your life and family dynamic change, making your own memories with your chosen family is a great way to fully embrace the holiday season. Keep reading for some of our favorite holiday tradition ideas that are guaranteed to bring your group of friends closer than you've ever been.

Related: 9 Christmas-Themed Inns and Hotels That Need to Be on Your Merry Bucket List