Conversation Starters for the Holiday Season
Holiday Conversation Starters
Spark meaningful discussions that honor your values this holiday season. Whether you're hosting a Dinner for Democracy or sitting down with family members who hold different views, these prompts help you connect with intention.
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About This Activity
The holidays bring us together with loved ones—but they can also surface tensions around politics and values. These conversation starters from Democracy Forward help you navigate those moments with grace while staying true to what you believe.
Time Needed
15-30 minutes
Group Size
2-12 people
Setting
Home gathering
Cost
Free
Use these prompts to guide meaningful conversation over dinner, around the fireplace, or during a quiet moment. They're designed to foster connection—not conflict—while honoring the civic values that matter to you.
Reflect on Your Holiday Experience
Start by exploring what makes your gatherings meaningful and how to create space for everyone:
What is your favorite holiday tradition or practice that makes your loved ones or guests feel especially connected?
Did your holiday traditions growing up include discussions of politics during the holidays? If so, how did it impact your gatherings?
What boundaries can you set that would be helpful when navigating political discussions with your holiday guests and loved ones?
Reflect on the Year
Take stock of 2025—the challenges, the moments of joy, and the people who helped you through:
Given the pain that this year has brought for many in the nation, what are you most grateful for this year?
What are two moments from 2025 that bring you joy?
How have the people around you helped you find courage and strength this year? How can you offer that same support to others in the new year?
What small act of kindness or civic engagement can strengthen your community this holiday season?
What is one of your favorite uplifting books, movies, shows, or podcasts?
Share Your Self-Care Strategies
The holiday season can be stressful. Share how you take care of yourself:
It's easy to get caught up in the stress of the holiday season. How do you remind yourself to slow down and take care of yourself?
How do you make space for rest and reflection?
Look Ahead to Next Year
Dream together about the year ahead and how you'll show up for your community:
How will you help inspire hope in others in the coming year?
How can you build community next year?
What lessons from this year will you carry into civic life next year?
How can you expand your networks to learn from others with different lived experiences?
About Democracy Forward
Democracy Forward is a national legal organization that advances democracy and social progress through litigation, policy, public education, and regulatory engagement. Founded in 2017, they use the law to build collective power and advance a bold, vibrant democracy for all people.
Their clients and partners reflect the very fabric of our country—voters, workers, veterans, immigrants, educators, medical professionals, scientists, researchers, journalists, parents, students, and community organizations. Democracy Forward ensures their voices are heard and that harmful, anti-democratic movements do not go unchallenged.
