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Holiday Stories

Tis the season for joy, giving, and stressful family gathering. If you’re looking for a little cheer and good-will, look no further. We’ve got the stories to get you in the holiday spirit!

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How I Survived an Awkward Family Dinner with My Humor Intact

Stand-up comedian Zach Zimmerman recounts their first family dinner in four years, proving with their trademark humor that you can go home again

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Readers Share Their Heartwarming Real-Life Secret Santa Stories

Santa's best-kept secret? He's got elves everywhere—and these sweet stories of holiday kindness prove it.


Meet the Kind Strangers Who Became Real Christmas Elves to Kids in Need

When local kids needed more than toys, strangers started checking off Santa’s list


A Pair of Beagles Were Left to Wander in the Snow—Until a Kind Stranger Took Them In

The story of an expectant couple and a wise man (but not the ones you’re thinking of)


Meet the Couple Who Became Real-Life Versions of Santa After Receiving Mysterious Letters

A Christmas mystery turns an unassuming couple into Santa Claus

18 True Christmas Miracles That Will Restore Your Hope for the Holidays

These true stories prove that a well-timed letter, a handful of pennies, or a single gust of wind can make...


13 Sweet Vintage Letters to Santa—from Almost 100 Years Ago

Sweet, vintage letters to Santa from Texas farm kids recall a simpler, more generous time.

This Man Fulfilled a Child’s Christmas Wish After Finding Her Balloon to Santa

A balloon breaks at just the right moment to bring two faraway families together.


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12 Real Ghost Stories That Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine

Calling on only the bravest and boldest of ghost hunters. These scary stories are not for the faint of heart.


7 True Stories About Funny Thanksgiving Mishaps

These true stories of snafus past will make you laugh—and breathe a little easier about your own Thanksgiving.


A Teacher Told Her Students to Draw What They Were Thankful for—This Was One Student’s Moving ...

As this teacher learned, some of the most moving lessons are taught by students.


24 Stories About Meeting Santa That Will Fill You with the Christmas Spirit

Santa Claus has a lot of kids to visit each year, but he never fails to get his job done....


10 Christmas Stories That Will Melt Your Heart

Delightful tales to help you embrace the spirit of the season.


This Mom’s Poem Is a Brilliant Way to Teach Kids the Truth About Santa

Could it be possible that Santa is real and works through the hands of parents?

Finally! Here’s What the Saying ‘Yes Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus’ Means

One news editor reminds us to never stop believing in miracles.


4 Heartwarming True Tales of Vintage Christmas Kindness

These true stories from readers like you prove that, deep down, Christmas has always been about the joy of giving.


6 Christmas Stories of Wonder and Love

It's a perfect time to read about how other families experience the joy of the season.


Christmas Stories: The Gold and Ivory Tablecloth

A pastor’s impulsive purchase leads to an incredible reunion. Coincidence—or divine guidance? You be the judge in this story of...