Happy Holidays & Merry Christmas

I have a small gift for you. It’s been said that food, family, and friends make a gathering great—and this is especially true during the holidays. This issue of American Lifestyle offers various reasons for get-togethers with an exclusive trip inside a candy store, the origins of our favorite winter customs, holiday party ideas, and delicious dinner recipes.

Step into the delight-filled world of Hammond’s Candies, an iconic Denver institution that’s the largest provider of handmade candy canes in America and offers both a tour of its candy-making process and a store that satisfies any sweet tooth.

Without a doubt, you can expect to see people flocking together for annual traditions this time of year, such as building snowmen and rocking ugly sweaters. Get the scoop on the origins of these customs and more, and test your knowledge of how they began.

Gatherings are popular—and plentiful—during the holiday season, and with these great party ideas for a biscotti-based brunch, a winter wonderland, and New Year’s, your get-together is sure to be the hit of the holidays!

When it comes to comfort food, serving meat and potatoes is about as basic as it gets. But basic doesn’t have to mean boring! Combine these recipes for pot roast and garlic mashed potatoes from Leigh Anne Wilkes’s Holiday Slow Cooker for a hearty winter meal.

May you find yourself surrounded by peace, love, and happiness all season long. As always, it's a pleasure to send you this magazine.

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Dave Maestas