Fellow atheist here (and also anti-consumption). I’ve found it to be very fulfilling to create my own traditions around the Winter solstice. I give simple gifts, make a delicious (vegetarian!) feast for myself and any loved ones joining me that particular year, light a bunch of candles and have as much chocolate, cinnamon, and ginger as possible to stave off the cold.

This year, I added a new one into the mix—volunteering at a shelter, mission, soup kitchen, etc., on Xmas day or Xmas eve. Since that’s not much of a holiday to me, I can give the volunteers who want to celebrate a break.

Just a few ideas. I hope you find a winter holiday tradition that allows you to reflect and look ahead :)