Maria Menounos Shares the Festive Way She and Her Husband Got Daughter Athena, 17 Months, Into the Holiday Spirit (Exclusive)

The holiday season is my favorite time of the year. For decades, my husband Kev and I held to annual traditions that include watching every classic Christmas special, arranging an It’s a Wonderful Life viewing party, hosting a ‘Cupcakes and Cocktails’ party and putting up decorations on Nov. 1.

The first time I was asked to be in a Christmas movie, I said yes before reading the script and have been in Christmas movies ever since. Kev and I even launched We Heart Holidays, a movie company designated exclusively to produce holiday movies. And why, pray tell? The holidays aren’t just about making merry or reminiscing. It’s about reconnecting with your child self, and not to mention people.

The holidays are often the one time of year many of us get to see certain friends and loved ones. It’s also the most universal time of joy, gratitude and giving, no matter your beliefs. And while I would love these sentiments to be shared year-round, I appreciate how much the season heightens them. Hence why my tree goes up the day after Halloween and why I encourage others to do the same. 

However, being a first-time parent to a 17-month-old has us adding new traditions. Athena’s a few years away from watching Christmas movies – though we did have her watch Frosty – and MANY years away from any parties with Christmas spirits that are distilled.

Thus, with one Google search while staying with my Dad in Connecticut, I discovered the top-ranked Christmas town of Essex. Dubbed by The Travel Guide ‘1,000 Places to See Before You Die’, the perfect small American town of Essex features a Polar Express Train Ride. Of course, I immediately arranged for tickets and loaded Team Menounos-Undergaro into the mini van (yes, motherhood has made me a big-time mini van advocate). 

There, we drove through Essex to enjoy a certain Hallmark-Lifetime holiday movie charm before arriving at the Polar Express destination. The train station from which the event begins and ends maintains the look and charm of its 19^th century origin. The same goes for the original steam locomotive that takes you on the journey. Inside the boxcars, you ride the rails, see Christmas sights and are treated to music, treats, elves and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, too. Athena, Kev and I were dressed in holiday flairs and other families did the same. I’m proud to say Athena danced and made merry with us and the other families for what was truly a magical night. 

Now then, if you don’t live near Essex, fear not. Every area has its place for lights and activities. In Los Angeles, for example, last year we took Athena to see the indoor snow and light show at the Century City mall. She was only 6 months but between the snow, the music and her addition to our lives, we just hugged her and cried through the experience. 

But, whether you have children or don’t, get out there and take full advantage. See the sights. Spread the magic. Savor the spirit. Give, be kind and be merry. And make it last as long as possible. Merry Christmas to all and thanks for letting this Christmas fanatic share all her holiday dreams coming true!