Derek Jeter on Holiday Plans as a Family of 6 — and His Son’s First Christmas: ‘Best Time of Year’ (Exclusive)

Derek Jeter is preparing for the holidays in 2023!

While speaking with PEOPLE about the groundbreaking ceremony for new baseball and softball fields for young athletes at his alma mater, Kalamazoo High School in Michigan, the star athlete, 49, also opened up about his family’s upcoming Christmas plans.

“The holiday season is probably one of the best times of the year because you see the excitement on their faces,” says Jeter, referring to his four children: daughters River Rose, 23 months, Story Grey, 4, and Bella Raine, 6, plus son Kaius Green, 6 months — which he shares with his wife Hannah Davis Jeter.

“I want to be with my family. My family has always been big,” he continues. “[I love] get a chance to be with family and friends during the holiday season.”

The former New York Yankees shortstop and five-time World Series champion adds, “It really is the best time of the year.”

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Derek Jeter with his wife Hannah Davis Jeter and their three daughters: Bella Raine, Story Grey, River Rose. New York Yankees/Derek Jeter/Derek Jeter’s 4 children’s Instagram: Everything you need to know

According to Jeter, the holidays are filled with joy for him and his family, but they can also be a bit stressful. “It is difficult for us to mobilize,” he says.

“We like to do things together as a family, but now we move in a pack. There are a lot of people moving around at once,” Jeter continues.

As for their holiday plans specifically, the father of four says he’ll spend Thanksgiving “at home,” as well as Christmas, because, as Jeter explains, “it’s always better because you want the kids to be home.”

Derek Jeter with his wife Hannah Davis Jeter and their three daughters: Bella Raine, Story Grey, River Rose. Jackie Brown / SplashNews.com

When asked if his two oldest daughters have already started planning what they want to ask Santa this year, Jeter admits that Bella and Story are well prepared.

“It’s hard for them to understand that Christmas is only in December,” he says with a laugh. “We hear what they want 12 months out of the year. I don’t think it’s any different when Santa comes.”

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Source: HIS Education