Kentucky Family Celebrates With 104 Stockings

Quick Smiles:

• A family in Kentucky hangs 104 Christmas stockings for each beloved member.
• Julia Gieske personally hand-sews new stockings as the family grows.
• Instagram video of the festive tradition goes viral, spreading holiday joy.

Hanging 104 stockings on one fireplace is no small feat, but the Gieske family has found a creative solution by securing a long board with nails to display every one. This heartwarming tradition is anchored by Walter and Julia Gieske, who crafted a stocking for each child, spouse, grandchild, and great-grandchild.

“There is one long board with nails in it, and the stockings are permanently attached to that board. As family members are added, you squeeze them in with that little cluster of stockings from each sub-family,” says Martina Gieske, mother of four.

Even after a recent hospital stay, Julia was dedicated to making new stockings for every new engagement and arrival. “She actually had her sewing machine out the other day. Even just having gotten out of the hospital from surgery, she was making stockings,” Martina shares. The joy and warmth these stockings represent go far beyond decorations—they symbolize the ever-growing, welcoming family.

The family’s tradition was highlighted on Instagram, capturing nearly half a million likes and inspiring people around the world with their togetherness.

Martina, who married Matt, the 13th Gieske sibling, recalls adjusting to the busy household. “It’s loud! It was very overwhelming trying to remember just the names of his siblings alone, and then all the nieces and nephews tend to look alike. So it took me a few years to memorize all the names,” she laughs.

Almost all 104 family members gather every Christmas at Walter and Julia’s home in northern Kentucky, inviting in-laws and friends to join the cheerful celebration. Martina fondly remembers being welcomed by the Gieskes: “They are the nicest people ever. I was so nervous that I would have to win them all over. And they just made me feel like family instantly—before I was even a part of their family.”

Though the tradition of filling every stocking has changed, Matt shares, “A long time ago we used to, but it got to be too much.” The loving spirit and unity of the Gieskes continues to shine each holiday season.

Family traditions like these fill the holidays with joy and serve as reminders of love, welcome, and togetherness. Share a smile and cherish the ones you call family, no matter how big or small your gathering may be!

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