CHRISTMAS AT THE RANCH:
A PRATKA FAMILY TRADITION
Howdy friends, Kurt here. Christmas has always been my favorite time of year, and for the past 20 years, my family has made the ranch the heart of our holiday celebrations. It’s not just a gathering spot—it’s where we slow down, soak up the season, and focus on what matters most: family, faith, and good food.
Let me give you a glimpse into how the Pratkas do Christmas. It’s a mix of old traditions, happy accidents that turned into rituals, and, of course, a few Tin Roof touches that tie it all together.
CHRISTMAS MORNING:
CHURCH AND CHINESE FOOD
Christmas Day kicks off with something that grounds us all—church. We head to Mass together, taking time to reflect on what the season’s really about. After that, we do something a little less traditional: lunch at a Chinese restaurant.
I know, it’s not what most folks expect, but it’s one of those things that has stuck over the years. Back in the day, it was probably the only place open on Christmas, and now it’s a tradition we all look forward to.
After lunch, we head back to Pratka Ranch for some real fun. We exchange gifts, share some laughs, and then get to work on dinner—a meal we all pitch in to make unforgettable.
A TOAST WITH FROSTY MUGS
When it comes to Christmas traditions, who would’ve thought a frosty mug of beer would be one of them? For my family, though, it’s become a must. Kicking off our gift exchange with a frosty mug of Celebrator beer has become one of those traditions we didn’t plan, but now we can’t imagine Christmas without! It’s a small moment that brings big smiles and reminds us to savor the simple joys of the season.
A HOLIDAY FEAST: PRATKA STYLE
When it comes to cooking, the guys handle the main dish, and for us, it’s always prime rib. My brother and I have this down to a science, and let me tell you, it’s a showstopper every year. The ladies tackle the sides, and together we pull off a feast that’s worth waiting for.
By the time dinner’s done, we’re ready to kick back. We’ll grab a drink, light a fire, and end the night with a cigar while we swap stories. It’s simple, but it’s exactly what we need after a busy year.
TIN ROOF BOARDS: THE HEART OF OUR HOLIDAY SPREAD
Of course, no Pratka celebration would be complete without Tin Roof cutting and charcuterie boards making an appearance. The lodge is full of them, and each one has its role during the holidays.
For the prime rib, I made a couple of extra-large cutting boards that are perfect for carving. When it comes to all the amazing appetizers, our charcuterie boards steal the show! We have them loaded up with snacks and spreads that keep everyone happy while we wait for the main course.
It’s always a proud moment for me to see these boards in action. They’re not just tools—they’re part of our family’s traditions now.
MAKING MEMORIES, ONE TRADITION AT A TIME
Christmas at the ranch isn’t fancy, but it’s ours. It’s a mix of faith, family, good food, and a lot of love. Every year, it reminds me why I’m so grateful to do what I do—crafting pieces that become part of people’s homes and stories.
Whether you’re carving a prime rib or putting together a charcuterie spread, I hope your holidays are filled with moments that make you smile for years to come. And if a Tin Roof board can help along the way, well, that’s just the cherry on top.
FROM MY FAMILY TO YOURS, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS.
Want to make your holiday table even more special? Let’s create something that’ll be part of your family traditions for years to come.
WORK TOGETHER