Surprising Changes In Festive American Celebrations

Santa hand giving thumbs up Christmas lights

Americans are reconsidering traditional Christmas customs, with nearly a third ready to ditch the turkey for burgers, pizza, or tacos.

At a Glance

31% of Americans are open to replacing traditional Christmas turkey with alternative dishes
47% prefer spending Christmas Day in pajamas over dressing up
69% are interested in creating new festive traditions
79% favor experiential gifts over material items
35% prioritize quality time over elaborate gifts or decorations

Shifting Christmas Traditions

A recent survey by St Pierre Bakery reveals a significant shift in American attitudes towards Christmas celebrations. The study, which interviewed 2,000 adults, found that many are moving away from traditional customs in favor of more personalized and relaxed holiday experiences.

One of the most striking findings is that nearly a third of Americans are ready to replace the traditional Christmas turkey with more unconventional meals. The survey shows that 44% would prefer pizza, 38% would opt for tacos, and 34% would choose Chinese takeout over the traditional turkey dinner.

Comfort Over Formality

The trend towards more casual celebrations is evident in how Americans want to spend their Christmas Day. A significant 47% of respondents expressed a preference for spending the holiday in pajamas rather than dressing up. This shift towards comfort extends beyond attire, with 35% of those surveyed prioritizing quality time with loved ones over elaborate gifts or decorations.

“While Christmas is a season of joy, many people find themselves feeling a little stuck in the same festive routine, and traditions that once felt magical can start to feel repetitive,” said a spokesperson for St Pierre Bakery.

This desire for change is not limited to food and attire. The survey found that 69% of Americans are interested in creating new festive traditions. Some are even considering more radical changes, with 18% expressing interest in a “friends-only” Christmas celebration, moving away from the traditional family-centric holiday.

Experiential Gifting on the Rise

The shift in Christmas customs extends to gift-giving as well. A remarkable 79% of people now favor gifts that provide an experience rather than material items. This trend is particularly evident in the increasing popularity of food gifts. Nearly 70% of adults aged 35 and older plan to gift food this holiday season, emphasizing connection and simplicity over traditional presents.

Nate Rempe of Omaha Steaks said, “Food uniquely delivers both the excitement of receiving a gift and the lasting memories of sharing an amazing meal with loved ones.”

This trend towards food gifting is not just about convenience; it’s rooted in nostalgia and the desire for meaningful experiences. The survey found that 76% of consumers associate their fondest childhood holiday memories with food-related experiences. This emotional connection to food is driving the shift towards more experiential and culinary-focused celebrations.

Balancing Old and New

While there’s a clear trend towards new traditions, many Americans still feel a connection to traditional practices. Over two-thirds of respondents feel compelled to stick to traditional customs, and 49% believe others are hesitant to change. This suggests a tension between the desire for innovation and the comfort of familiar holiday rituals.

“It’s not about losing the holiday spirit—it’s about refreshing it. We think it’s time to shake things up and make the holiday season exciting again—because traditions evolve, and so should our celebrations. From the endless turkey dinners to the familiar carols, some families are craving a fresh twist on Christmas. Food plays such a huge role in making festive memories—why not embrace some new traditions to reignite the holiday spirit and make new ‘magnifique’ moments for generations to come?” said the spokesperson for St Pierre Bakery.

As Americans navigate this evolving holiday landscape, many are finding ways to blend old and new traditions. Whether it’s introducing a new dish to the Christmas menu, opting for a more casual dress code, or focusing on experiential gifts, the goal seems to be creating celebrations that feel both meaningful and fresh. This shift reflects a broader trend of personalizing holidays to better suit individual preferences and modern lifestyles.