Partying in Space: How Astronauts Celebrate Holidays on the International Space Station

Do astronauts have parties on the space station? Absolutely. Despite the remote and challenging environment, the crew on the International Space Station (ISS) does indeed observe many holidays with traditional festivities. This article explores how they celebrate various holidays in space, from Thanksgiving to the Christmas double celebration.

The Special Holiday Schedule on the ISS

Astronauts on the ISS have a unique opportunity to celebrate eight holidays per year. Before embarking on their six-month mission, the crew collaborates to decide which four holidays to observe during their time aboard the station. These holidays might come from different cultures and include American, Russian, European, Japanese, and Canadian traditions. Sharing these international traditions is often one of the most cherished memories for the crews.

Special Meals and Emotional Calls Home

For each holiday, the international crew enjoys a special meal together, followed by a heartwarming call home to spend time with friends, family, and other loved ones. These moments provide emotional support and a sense of home amidst the astronaut's mission.

Thanksgiving: The First Space Thanksgiving

The crew on the space station celebrated its first Thanksgiving in 2000, three weeks after the first crew arrived on November 2nd. This tradition has continued, and NASA sends up a meal that closely resembles a typical Thanksgiving feast, including smoked turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, and other traditional sides. The crew gathers to enjoy this special meal during their holiday on the ISS.

Twin Christmas Celebrations: December 25th and January 7th

On the space station, astronauts celebrate Christmas twice. Most observe on December 25th, while the Russian crew celebrates the Orthodox Christmas on January 7th. The ISS has a box of Christmas decorations, including plastic strings of lights, Santa hats, Christmas stockings, and a small Christmas tree. These decorations help create a festive atmosphere during the holiday season.

Halloween: Bringing the Spirit to Space

Although there are no trick-or-treaters on the space station, the crew still enjoys dressing up in costumes and getting into the Halloween spirit. Over the years, they have created some inventive costumes using materials like fresh oranges as makeshift jack-o’-lanterns. Some of the costumes have included classic figures like Superman, Wolverine, Spiderman, and even more creative ones like Waldo and a pirate. The Halloween spirit brings a bit of mischief and fun to the international team.

Gallery of Photos: Celebrating Holidays on the ISS

Thanksgiving Meal

Christmas

Halloween

These holiday celebrations on the ISS provide a glimpse into the camaraderie and creativity that astronauts bring to their work. From special meals to sharing moments with loved ones, these traditions help maintain a sense of home and humanity in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.