A Simple Christmas Tradition That Means So Much
One of the things I truly appreciate about living in our neighborhood is how Christmas still feels simple, warm, and community-driven. This year marked Twinkle’s second time attending the Camelot Kids Christmas Party, and just like last year, it reminded me that the best Christmas memories for kids aren’t always about grand venues or expensive celebrations — sometimes, they’re right outside your doorstep.
The Camelot Kids Christmas Party is organized by a couple of thoughtful moms from our street. No big sponsors, no fancy program — just moms coming together to make Christmas special for the kids in the neighborhood. It’s one of those events that feels very “old-school Christmas,” the kind where everyone chips in and everyone feels included.
How the Party Comes Together
What I love about this party is how organized yet simple it is. The moms solicit food, toys, or monetary contributions from parents to fund the games, giveaways, and prizes. There’s something heartwarming about knowing that everything the kids enjoy comes from collective effort. For parents who choose to have their kids join the food part of the party, the fee is ₱250, and the kids get a Jollibee meal — which, let’s be honest, already feels like a Christmas gift on its own for most kids.
There’s also an exchange gift with a set budget of ₱300. I always enjoy shopping for exchange gifts because it forces me to think about what kids actually enjoy, not just what looks cute. It’s a small detail, but it adds excitement to the party — that moment when kids receive a gift from someone they may not even know that well yet.
Why Twinkle Loves Attending
Twinkle looks forward to this party not because of the food or gifts, but because her neighborhood friends are there. These are the kids she plays with after school, the ones she do arts and crafts with, laughs with, and grows up with. Seeing them all gathered together in one place, celebrating Christmas as a community, makes the experience extra special for her.
As a mom, I notice how relaxed she is during this party. There’s no pressure to dress up too much, no need to “behave perfectly,” just pure kid energy — running around, laughing loudly, joining games, and enjoying the moment. That kind of joy is priceless.
A Mom’s Quiet Appreciation
Watching Twinkle attend this party for the second year made me realize how quickly these traditions become core memories. One day, she might not remember the exact toys she received or the games they played, but she’ll remember how it felt — being part of a neighborhood, being surrounded by friends, and feeling the warmth of Christmas in a simple way.
In a season where everything feels rushed and expensive, the Camelot Kids Christmas Party is a gentle reminder that community still matters. That Christmas doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. And that sometimes, the best gifts we give our kids are shared experiences and a sense of belonging.
I’m grateful to the moms who organize this every year, and I already know that when next Christmas comes around, this will once again be one of those events we happily say yes to.
