Every family has their own traditions come Thanksgiving and Christmas time. For most, they involve gathering around for a home-cooked meal or attending Christmas Eve church service together. My family, however, has some pretty wild traditions that we love and look forward to each year.

Out of all of them, there is one that is the Alpha of all Christmas traditions... our annual Christmas Day nerf gun fight.

This tradition started about 6 years ago when my mom bought all 5 of us brand new nerf guns. We looked at her baffled as to why she had given her 3 grown-ish children something that was commonly presumed as a "little kid's toy." Little did we know that that Christmas we started a tradition unlike any other.

So if your family needs a new tradition this season, here some helpful hints to achieve the most authentic nerf battle you could dream of.

1. It must be nighttime.

We played at various times throughout Christmas Day, and with trial-and-error, we discovered that nighttime allows for the best playing conditions. You won't have to worry about being seen by the other team as you sneak into enemy territory. Also, hiding positions are optimal in the dark.

2. You will need teams and sides.

The best way to do this is split the house up. Make sure the boundaries are clear. Personally, we use our kitchen as the line for marking each team's land.

As far as teams go, we recommend "kids versus parents," but feel free to switch it up.

3. Set up barricades.

Our first Christmas, we just used our island and bar as natural barriers to hide from enemy fire, but with time and experience, we discovered adding additional barricades helped spice it up. We often use a folding table on its side or reposition the couch to cover an open area. Chairs covered with blankets also work for a quick makeshift bunker when you're caught and need cover.

4. Dress in black.

This allows for full ninja mode as you sneak from side to side in the darkness. It also adds the bonus of a cool family Christmas picture. It's definitely not your traditional family photo.

5. Turn OFF all of the lights, and turn ON James Bond (or Mission Impossible) themed music.

Along with the nighttime and the dark clothes, having the lights off just helps the experience.

The music, on the other hand, brings out the James Bond in all of us. Trust me, it sounds weird but it makes the game.

6. Set up the rules.

We like to play until one team gets the other completely out. Because it is so dark, we rely on the honor system... if you were hit by a nerf bullet, you confess and are immediately out of play. There are many other types of games you can play; capture the flag, every man for himself, etc. Mix it up and give each one a try.

7. Have fun... but be careful.

Remember: it is just a game. There have been a few times when accidents have happened in my family. For example, one time my brother was sneaking around the corner to get my dad out, and in a natural reaction, my dad swiped my brother across the head with his gun. So yes, have fun but also be cautious with your surroundings.

Hope these tips will ensure a fun and thrilling new tradition for you and your family this year. Happy holidays and happy hunting!