When the holiday season rolls around, communities come alive in ways that feel both nostalgic and new. For young people who’ve left their hometowns to pursue opportunities elsewhere, coming home for the holidays brings about memories of familiar streets, cherished local spots, and treasured traditions. These seasonal visits also present an opportunity for communities to show off their growth, vitality, and potential as a place to build a future.

This time of year is a chance not just to welcome these visitors home but to remind them that they always have the choice to come back. With a few thoughtful strategies, communities can encourage these young people to see their hometown in a new light—one that includes room for careers, connections, and a fulfilling life.

Crafting an Experience that Speaks to the Heart

Holiday events—tree lightings, winter festivals, and local artisan markets—are more than just seasonal attractions; they’re moments that connect visitors to the community. To make an impression, these events should highlight what’s unique about the city. For instance, small gestures like featuring local businesses, hosting pop-up art installations, or incorporating beloved local traditions can leave a lasting impression on young people looking to reconnect.

Instead of just celebrating the past, these events can also give a nod to the future. Consider adding guided tours of recent development projects, open houses for new coworking spaces, or “meet and greet” sessions with local business owners. These experiences bridge the nostalgia of the past with the promise of what’s next, reminding young visitors that they can play a role in their hometown’s future.

Telling the Community’s Evolving Story

Home is where our stories begin, but for young people who’ve moved away, staying updated on their hometown’s progress might not be top-of-mind. Communities can bridge that gap with strategic storytelling that catches their attention. Sharing the journeys of former residents who’ve returned and built successful lives offers a powerful narrative. These relatable stories can be featured in community newsletters, social media assets, and through human-interest stories in the local paper. 

By focusing on the voices of those who have returned, authentic storytelling can help communities show that it’s not just possible but rewarding to come back. 

Creating Pathways for Careers and Housing

One of the biggest obstacles to returning home is finding a sustainable and fulfilling career. By partnering with local businesses, communities can host holiday networking events or job fairs geared toward returning alumni. If there is a college or university in the area, even better – work with alumni associations to reach returning young people. Highlighting career options, internships, or growth paths in the area lets them see a professional future that aligns with their personal goals. 

Affordable housing is another critical factor. Communities could promote housing initiatives that make it easier for young residents to stay, including information on first-time homebuyer programs or local housing developments. By addressing these practical needs, communities demonstrate they’re not just places to visit but viable options for long-term residency.

Inviting Young People to Help Shape the Future

Today’s young people are eager to make a difference, and communities that involve them in shaping the future send a powerful message of inclusivity. Over the holiday season, towns might host casual feedback sessions or idea-sharing workshops where returning residents can learn about and contribute to local initiatives. These gatherings invite young voices into the decision-making process, fostering a sense of belonging that goes beyond nostalgia. Consider simple but impactful ways to encourage involvement. Partner with a local coffee shop to host a holiday brainstorming session or start a seasonal advisory council where young residents can offer insights on community projects. These small but meaningful gestures make it clear: the community values their perspectives.

During the holiday season, many families might be searching for ways to volunteer their time and give back to the community – leveraging young professional and service groups locally can help these returning visitors find a fulfilling and meaningful way to give back, and strengthen their bond with their hometown. 

From Seasonal Visitors to Full-Time Residents

When young people come home for the holidays, they’re already primed to reconnect with the places and people they love. For communities, it’s an invitation to show how they’ve grown and evolved, blending the warmth of familiarity with the excitement of future opportunities. By crafting experiences, sharing stories, and creating paths to careers and housing, communities can turn holiday homecomings into lasting commitments.

With a little intention, hometowns can become not just places to visit but places to call home again—welcoming young people back to build their lives, their futures, and their communities. The spirit of the holidays is all about reconnecting; let’s make that connection last well beyond the season.