6 ’70s Weekend Traditions That Fizzled Out – And 6 Family Rituals Worth Bringing Back

Ah, the ’70s — a dazzling decade of disco balls, bell-bottoms, and weekend rituals that danced to a funkier beat.

Back when avocado green was a lifestyle, and wood paneling somehow counted as interior design, people had traditions that made Saturdays and Sundays feel special. Some of those customs, like fondue parties and roller rink dates, have faded into obscurity like the last notes of a Bee Gees track.

And sure, not everything needs a comeback (we see you, shag carpeting), but maybe — just maybe — we tossed out some real gems with the lava lamp water. What if we brought back those carefree vibes, the analog joys, and the no-phones-allowed hangouts?

So grab your platform shoes, dust off that vintage vinyl, and let’s take a groovy stroll down memory lane to see which retro habits are ready for an encore. After all, what’s old might just be cool again.

1. Saturday Morning Cartoon Lockdown

Once upon a time in a land of shag carpets, Saturday mornings were a sacred ritual. With a bowl of sugary cereal in hand, we would plop down in front of the TV, our eyes glued to cartoons that ranged from delightful to downright bizarre. It was a magical time when the only concern was which cartoon hero would save the day.

Imagine the freedom of watching hours of animated adventures with zero parental supervision. Today, with cartoons available on-demand, that rare thrill has faded faster than a cartoon villain’s plot. And honestly, have you revisited those plots? Some are as thin as the milk in your cereal.

Despite the cheesy storylines, something about those mornings had a special zing. Maybe it was the laughter echoing in the room or the shared excitement of discovering new characters. Reclaiming this tradition could mean setting a special time to enjoy shows together, unplugged from endless choices. It’s about recapturing that feeling of anticipation, where even the simplest story felt like an epic tale.

2. Endless Sunday Drives to Nowhere

Ah, the Sunday drive—a time-honored tradition where you’d pile into a car with no particular destination in mind. The AM radio crackled with static, and the road stretched on like an endless strip of licorice. It was a journey of discovery, though the only treasure you might find was a cool lookout point—if Dad’s memory served him right.

These drives were less about the destination and more about the journey, or so they said. Still, many of us remember the mix of boredom and excitement, with the latter usually winning out when an unexpected sight appeared. Imagine desert landscapes suddenly giving way to lush valleys or fields of wildflowers.

Today, a GPS might kill the mystery, but reviving the spirit of exploration is possible. Consider turning off navigation and just driving, letting curiosity guide you. Pack some snacks, roll down the windows, and let the road lead you somewhere unexpected. Who knows, you might even rediscover the joy of being lost together, with laughter as your compass.

3. Church, Brunch, Nap, Repeat

Sundays in the ’70s were like a structured dance, with church service being the opening act. We’d don our finest polyester suits and pile into the pews for a sermon that often felt longer than any epistle. The promise of brunch was the light at the end of the ecclesiastical tunnel.

Every week, like clockwork, we’d visit the same restaurant, where predictable yet comforting dishes awaited. Pancakes, bacon, and perhaps a mimosa for the grown-ups—simple pleasures that never failed to deliver. The post-brunch nap was the encore, a dreamy conclusion to a morning of tradition.

This routine may seem rigid, but there’s a certain charm in the predictability. Reintroducing such a ritual could mean gathering for a homemade brunch, each family member contributing a dish. Follow it with a leisurely afternoon, where naps are not just allowed but encouraged. It’s about creating a rhythm that brings peace and connection, a gentle reminder of slower times.

4. The One TV in the House Power Struggle

Back in the day, the living room TV was the household throne, and whoever controlled it wielded great power. Without remotes, changing channels involved a physical trek to the set, often resulting in heated debates over whether to watch ‘Hee Haw’ or the big game.

In those corduroy-clad skirmishes, compromise was king—or at least it tried to be. These battles of preference, while chaotic, were a masterclass in negotiation skills. Everyone had a voice, and sometimes, the loudest one won.

Today, with screens aplenty, the struggle has shifted, but the essence of shared decision-making is worth preserving. Try designating a family TV night, where each person gets a turn to choose what to watch. It might just spark conversations that go beyond the screen, reminding us that sometimes the best show is the one where everyone plays a part.

5. Forced Visits to Distant Relatives

Ah, the obligatory journey to see relatives you barely knew, complete with hard candies in dusty dishes. These visits were a rite of passage, filled with awkward silences and stories about ancient family pets. The highlight? Probably the car ride home.

Despite the dread, those visits taught us something invaluable about family ties. They were a reminder that family isn’t just about shared blood, but shared history and the odd comforts of familiarity. Even if you didn’t know Aunt Mildred well, her stories had a way of knitting the family tapestry.

Bringing back this tradition in a more positive light could mean planning intentional visits, where stories are shared, and connections are made. Perhaps even creating a family tree together, sparking conversations that bridge generational gaps. It’s about finding value in the past to enrich the present, one story at a time.

6. DIY Car Washes as “Family Bonding”

Nothing says family bonding like a bucket of soapy water and a sun-drenched driveway. The ’70s DIY car wash was less about the car’s shine and more about creating a splash—literally. Water fights and the occasional sunburn were part of the package.

Kids armed with sponges and hoses, parents supervising with a watchful eye—it was teamwork at its soggiest. Yet, this chore often ended with laughter, even if it started with groans. The sight of a shining car was a bonus, a testament to collective effort.

Rekindling this tradition might involve setting aside a sunny afternoon for more than just washing the car. Let it be a time for playful rivalry and shared responsibilities, perhaps ending with a picnic or barbecue. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best memories come from the simplest tasks, especially when shared.

7. The Sunday Sit-Down Dinner

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the Sunday sit-down dinner was a moment of calm. A chance for everyone to gather around the table, share a meal, and exchange stories from the week. No screens, no distractions—just good food and good company.

There was something magical about passing the rolls and making small talk, however awkward it might have been at first. It was a time to reconnect, to laugh together, and sometimes even to argue. These dinners were about more than just the food; they were about the bonds being strengthened with each shared bite.

Bringing back this tradition doesn’t have to be an elaborate affair. It can be as simple as setting aside one night a week for a family meal. Turn off the phones, put away the tablets, and enjoy the company of those around you. It’s a chance to slow down, to really listen to each other, and to create lasting memories, one meal at a time.

8. Board Game Night (Where Winning Actually Matters)

In a world before digital distractions, board game night was where the real action happened. Dust off Scrabble, Clue, or Uno, and watch as alliances form and rivalries ignite. It’s where laughter and groans filled the room, and winning was more than just bragging rights—it was a matter of family honor.

These games were a test of wits and luck, where even the youngest players had a chance to triumph. It was a night of strategic thinking, quick decisions, and perhaps a little rule-bending. But most importantly, it was a night of connection.

Reviving this tradition could mean setting aside one evening a week for some friendly competition. Let the games begin, but remember, it’s not just about who wins or loses; it’s about the memories made along the way. So gather around, pick your game, and let the fun unfold.

9. Backyard BBQs With Zero Planning

Forget the Pinterest-perfect themes; the best backyard BBQs are the spontaneous ones. Fire up the grill, throw on some burgers, and let the good times roll. It’s about simple pleasures—juicy bites, laughter, and perhaps a game of backyard tag.

These gatherings were about more than just food; they were about community. Neighbors would wander over, kids would run around barefoot, and the air filled with the smell of charred delights. It was unscripted fun, just like the good old days.

Bringing back this tradition is as easy as inviting a few friends over for a relaxed evening. No fancy decorations required, just good company and good food. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best moments are the unplanned ones, where everyone feels at home.

10. Library Runs and Bookstore Browsing

Before algorithms curated your reading list, there was the joy of wandering library aisles. Each book was a potential adventure, waiting to be discovered. It was a time when people judged books by their covers—and sometimes found gems within.

These excursions were an exercise in curiosity, as kids explored new worlds and adults revisited old favorites. The smell of paper and ink was intoxicating, and there was a thrill in not knowing what you’d find next.

Reclaiming this ritual means dedicating time to explore literary treasures, be it at a local library or bookstore. Encourage each family member to choose something new, and perhaps share a bit about their picks over dinner. It’s about rediscovering the magic of a good book and the joy of discovering it together.

11. Making Popcorn the Old-School Way

Forget the microwave; popping corn the old-school way is an art. Heat the oil, sprinkle the kernels, and listen as they burst into fluffy treats. The sizzle and pop is a symphony of anticipation, a prelude to buttery delight.

The process was half the fun, with a few burnt kernels adding charm to the final bowl. Once ready, there was the joy of sharing, each handful a crunchy testament to teamwork and patience.

Reviving this tradition could mean gathering around the stove for some culinary magic. It’s a sensory experience that involves everyone, from shaking the pot to drizzling the butter. And as the aroma fills the room, it’s a delicious reminder that sometimes the best things come to those who wait.

12. Craft Time That Ends in a Glitter Explosion

In a world inundated with screens, there’s something refreshingly tactile about craft time. Whether it’s macramé, painting rocks, or making greeting cards, the process was often more enjoyable than the final product. And glitter? It was both a decoration and a souvenir, lingering long after the crafts were done.

These creative sessions were a chance to express individuality and embrace the mess. There was laughter, a bit of chaos, and the joy of creation, even if the results were a little rough around the edges.

Reviving this tradition could mean setting aside an afternoon for crafting, where creativity knows no bounds. Keep the supplies simple, the ideas wild, and let the glitter fly. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best creations are the ones that didn’t go as planned, but brought everyone together in laughter and fun.