Christmas. The season of joy, family, and, let’s be honest, low-level debates about how it’s done right. Do you have a lavish Christmas dinner or order Chinese takeout? Are you popping champagne on Christmas Eve and opening presents at midnight, or do you keep it old-school and wait for Santa to finish his rounds on Christmas morning? Let’s unwrap the traditions (pun very much intended) and figure out if there’s a “right way” to celebrate—or if it’s all just chaos wrapped in tinsel.
What’s on the Table?
The Traditionalist’s Feast
For some, Christmas dinner is an unshakable ritual. Think roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and something green that everyone conveniently “forgets” to eat. Then there’s the pièce de résistance: pie. Pumpkin, pecan, apple—it doesn’t matter, as long as it’s covered in whipped cream.
The Cultural Remix
Not everyone does turkey and pie, though. In Italy, for instance, you might find Feast of the Seven Fishes—a seafood bonanza featuring everything from calamari to clams. In Mexico, tamales steal the show. And in the Philippines? Get ready for lechón (roast pig) and a feast that can last until dawn.
The Takeout Crowd
And then there’s the modern tradition: Chinese food. Whether it’s because you’re exhausted from holiday prep, burned the ham (it happens), or just prefer General Tso’s chicken to stuffing, Chinese takeout is a no-judgment zone. Fun fact: this tradition is particularly strong in Jewish households in the U.S., where Christmas Eve dinners at Chinese restaurants have become a beloved custom.
The Wild Cards
Some families go rogue. Pizza? Sure. Barbecue? Why not. One friend of mine swears by nachos as the ultimate Christmas dinner (which, honestly, sounds kind of amazing). The point is, as long as you’re eating something delicious with people you tolerate love, you’re doing it right.
Dinner: Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
Ah, the timeline debate. Do you do the whole shebang on Christmas Eve, or is Christmas dinner a sacred Day-Of event?
The Christmas Eve Crowd
In many parts of the world, Christmas Eve is the main event. In places like Spain and much of Latin America, families gather for a big feast, called Nochebuena, which can stretch well into the night. Afterward, some families head to midnight Mass before returning to open presents at midnight.
This approach has its perks: you get to sleep in on Christmas morning and spend the day basking in leftovers, pajamas, and zero obligations.
The Christmas Morning Traditionalists
For others, Christmas morning is the stuff of dreams. Stockings are ripped open before breakfast, and gifts follow over coffee and cinnamon rolls. Dinner’s the grand finale, served hot in the afternoon or early evening—because who doesn’t love the idea of a full stomach during “Home Alone” reruns?
The Compromisers
Then there’s the hybrid: a low-key dinner on Christmas Eve, maybe a few “starter” gifts opened, but the big gift extravaganza and main feast happen on Christmas Day. It’s the best of both worlds—though it does require two well-thought-out meals.
So, When Do You Open the Presents?
There’s no universal answer here, but here are the highlights:
- Christmas Eve at Midnight
Common in Europe and Latin America, this approach is a test of your patience—or your ability to stay awake. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy a little drama: picture a clock striking 12 and everyone diving for the tree like it’s the Olympics. - Christmas Morning
This is the classic “Santa came!” moment. Great for families with young kids who can’t wait to see what’s under the tree. Bonus: the whole house smells like coffee and wrapping paper. - Both (Why Not?)
Some families let kids open one “teaser” gift on Christmas Eve to hold them over until the main event the next day. It’s strategic, really—keeps the excitement high but manageable.
Is There a “Right” Way?
Here’s the thing: there’s no right way to do Christmas. Whether you’re feasting on turkey or dim sum, opening gifts at midnight or dawn, the heart of the holiday isn’t about a rigid schedule or a specific menu. It’s about connection, joy, and, yes, maybe a little chaos.
So set your table—or don’t. Open your presents—whenever you want. The only rule is this: whatever you do, make it yours. Merry Christmas, or as the Chinese restaurant down the street says, “See you next year!”
