I absolutely love this time of year for multiple reasons: family, friends, time together, gifts, appreciating what you have, etc. There is a bigger reason for the season (for me), and I sometimes have to be reminded by those that are more intelligent than I am :)
The simple yet profound reason for my season is the realization that a great divine gift was given around this time, and also to become aware that even though our loved ones are not physically here they are here in Spirit. When family/loved ones gather and have a celebration together I believe those that have moved on have a chance to stop by and see what is going on. They can almost be felt by others within the group (if they are awakened and aware enough to feel it).
Being aware of that fact gives me the biggest joy to the world that I am living in (sure, pun intended). I know when we celebrate the coming of 2016 it will only become more comlpex, fun, loving and exciting knowing we are supported by our loved ones in physical and spiritual form.