For actress Lisa Ann Walter, Christmas is more than just a holiday; it's a deeply cherished tradition that binds her family together. At an event in Los Angeles, she shared with PEOPLE how she maintains these rituals year after year to ensure everyone feels connected and content.

Experience Timeless Joy with Consistent Holiday Celebrations

The Importance of Hosting at Home

Hosting Christmas at home has become a cornerstone of Walter’s festive season. Every year, her four children—Jordan, Delia, Spencer, and Simon—gather under one roof. This tradition allows Walter to create a warm, inviting atmosphere where memories are made and cherished. She emphasizes the significance of stability during the holidays, explaining that even minor changes can upset the balance. “My daughter, especially, thrives on these traditions,” Walter notes. “She finds comfort in knowing exactly what to expect each year.”Walter’s commitment to hosting extends beyond mere hospitality. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels welcome and loved. Her living room becomes the epicenter of celebration, a place where laughter and joy fill the air. Despite the hustle and bustle of preparations, Walter remains grounded, ensuring that each detail is handled with care. The act of hosting brings out her nurturing side, making her home the heart of the holiday.

A Night of Wrapping and Feasting

Christmas Eve is a night filled with excitement and anticipation for Walter’s family. As the evening approaches, her children transform her bedroom into a wrapping station. Amidst the chaos of paper and ribbons, there’s an undeniable sense of unity. Walter recounts, “They wreck my bedroom every year, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.” After the gifts are wrapped, the family indulges in a beloved tradition: eating Chinese food while watching "A Christmas Story" on repeat. This combination of activities creates a unique blend of nostalgia and festivity that defines their holiday spirit.The choice of Chinese food isn’t arbitrary; it represents a break from the norm while still adhering to the family’s established routine. Watching "A Christmas Story" adds another layer of tradition, as the film’s timeless charm resonates with both young and old. For Walter, these moments are invaluable, offering a chance to bond with her children over shared experiences. The simplicity of this evening underscores the importance of finding joy in everyday pleasures.

Morning Rituals and Breakfast Bliss

Christmas morning begins early for Walter, who rises before dawn to prepare for the day ahead. Her first task is setting up stockings and arranging presents, ensuring everything is perfect for when her family wakes up. Once the children are ready, they gather in the kitchen for a special treat: homemade cinnamon rolls. Walter describes this moment as a highlight of the holiday, where the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the house. “Everyone opens their stockings while savoring the rolls and sipping coffee,” she says. “It’s a peaceful start to an otherwise hectic day.”After the stockings are emptied, the family moves on to opening presents. This is followed by a hearty breakfast that includes eggs, sausage, and other breakfast staples. Walter takes pride in preparing these meals, which serve as a bridge between the gift-giving frenzy and the main event. Her attention to detail ensures that each meal is not only delicious but also comforting. By maintaining this routine, Walter fosters a sense of continuity that her children look forward to each year.

Dinner Extravaganza and Sweet Surprises

Dinner is the pinnacle of Walter’s Christmas celebrations. She prepares an elaborate feast that features turkey, wild rice stuffing with sausage, mashed potatoes, crescent rolls, and broccoli with cheese sauce. Each dish holds a special place in the family’s hearts, evoking memories of past gatherings. Walter insists on keeping the menu consistent, as any deviation could lead to disappointment. “My boys would lose it if we changed anything,” she laughs. “They love their meat, potatoes, and rolls.”Despite the predictability of the main course, desserts offer an element of surprise. This year, Walter decided to bake cookies, adding a delightful twist to the evening. The anticipation of dessert keeps the family engaged throughout the meal, building excitement for the final part of the celebration. For Walter, this balance of tradition and novelty is key to creating a memorable holiday experience. Her dedication to crafting the perfect dinner reflects her commitment to making every moment count.

New Beginnings and Lasting Bonds

This Christmas marked a significant milestone for Walter, as it was the first she spent in her new Los Angeles home. Moving into a new space has been a long-awaited dream for the actress. “I’ve finally bought myself a house,” she shares. “It’s something I couldn’t afford for years, even as a working actress.” While some furniture is still being upholstered, Walter’s home already feels like a haven for her family. The transition has brought a fresh perspective to her holiday preparations, infusing them with renewed energy and optimism.Walter’s relationship with her ex-husband, Sam Baum, adds another layer of complexity to her life. Despite their divorce, they remain close friends, often spending time together. “Sam comes over every weekend,” she reveals. “He even refers to me as his ‘sort-of wife.’” This unique dynamic showcases the enduring bonds that can exist beyond marriage. For Walter, these relationships contribute to the richness of her holiday traditions, reminding her of the importance of love and connection in all its forms.