Christmas isalmost here, and the JAM team thought you may need a few tips on how to make the best out of everyone's favorite day. Here are 10 things not to do on Christmas Day. You're welcome!
1. DO NOT turn on any non-Christmas music.
I don’t care if you hate Christmas music or are sick of it. If it isn’t playing in the background, you’re doing Christmas wrong.
It doesn’t matter whether you go for R&B with Mariah Carey’s Christmas Pandora Station or decide to tune into some classics like Frank Sinatra’s Christmas Pandora Station.But have it on! Or at least put A Christmas Story on repeat.
And don’t even think about playing that new Drake song from the radio instead. That definitely falls under things NOT to do on Christmas.
2. DO NOT fight with the family.
There’s always drama in the family, no one can debate that. But let’s leave all of that aside for the day (only 24 hours!) and remind ourselves that even that one cousin who’s super annoying and chews way too loudly isstill a part of the family, whether we like it or not.
After all, it’s Christmas. Try to be kind, even if it’s just for the day. If you absolutely have to fight, wait until December 26th. We won’t fault you for that one.
3. DO NOT fill up on appetizers or desserts before the actual Christmas meal.
One of our marketing team members suggestedthis one (shout out to Kelly) and I had to put it on the list… because I do it every. Single. Year.
The moments I look forward to most on Christmas Day are the times when the appetizers and desserts come out. Consequently, once I’m at the dinner table, I don’t want a thing: I’m either too full on apps or want to save room for dessert. My grandma doesn’t necessarily appreciate that, so I have to remind myself that the mini hot dogs, mozzarella sticks, chips and dip, and M&M’s are not worth it (at least not all of them at once).
Add this to the list of things NOT to do on Christmas. Your stomach (and your grandma) will thank you!
4. DO NOT forget to bring comfortable clothes.
With all of the delicious food, it’s inevitable that a food baby will follow. We all like to dress up for Christmas (or we're forced to). But after all the pictures are taken, food demolished, and presents opened, all you’ll want to do is pull on some sweatpants, fall onto your bed, and never get up. Trust me, you do NOT want to be the one who forgot a change of clothes.
5. DO NOT forget to take pictures.
Even though you might not necessarily enjoy them in the moment, photos are absolutely essential to the Christmas experience. We get it. Fake-smiling is tiring. But we can guarantee that you’re going to look back on the pictures years from now and smile—for real, this time. Memories might stay in your head for a long time, but photos capture and freeze those precious moments perfectly, forever.
6. DO NOT forget your gifts.
The worst thing you could do is show up at a Christmas party empty-handed. Especially if your mom gave you a specific list of presents she just needed to have. So please do NOT forget any of your presents at home.
Forgot to do your Christmas shopping? Well, just grab a bottle of wine or something. Avoid breaking this rule at all costs.
7. DO NOT ask when you can open presents (unless you are 9 years old or younger).
We’re all thinking it: when can we finally open the presents? What did I get? How many of the gifts are mine? Are they as good as the ones I bought?
Take a deep breath. Enjoy every moment and wait patiently until the host or hostess says it’s time. This creates more suspense anyway, and who doesn’t love the thrill of that? Okay, you’re right, the wait stinks. But don’t complain about it … even if it’s just to your sister. Someone is bound to hear you, and it probably won’t end well for you if they do. Which leads us to our next point…
8. DO NOT tell someone you don’t like their gift–no matter how bad it really is.
Okay so maybe this is the most awkward thing on Christmas: not liking a present. No matter who gave it, no matter what it is—even if it would be a more suitable gift for your dog—you smile. You thank them. And you save the receipt.
9. DO NOT forget to have a good time.
Maybe you aren’t in the best mood because of work; maybe you’re hungover from the night before, or simply woke up on the wrong side of bed.Regardless,try your hardest to have the best time ever. Listen to all of your grandparents’ stories (yes, even the ones you’ve heard millions of times before) and indulge the little ones with their games.
Do things you normally wouldn’t do with family, such as dancing, singing Christmas carols, or playing Wiffle ball. Make a toast before dinner starts. Who cares if you’re not the greatest at it? Just don’t let the day go to waste with a single dull moment.
You’ll thank me later.
10. DO NOT forget to hug and say ‘I love you’ to your family when it’s time to go.
—But that’s a given. We hope... It definitely counts as things NOT to do on Christmas!
JAMwishes you a very Merry Christmas! Love you all!
Edited on 11/19/2019 by Dana Kim.
Greetings, fellow Christmas enthusiasts! As someone deeply entrenched in the festive spirit, allow me to dive into the wealth of knowledge pertaining to the dos and don'ts of Christmas Day, as outlined in the article you've shared. My extensive experience and passion for the holiday season position me as the perfect guide for making the most out of everyone's favorite day.
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Christmas Music Dominance: The article emphasizes the importance of Christmas music on the big day. From Mariah Carey's R&B tunes to the timeless classics of Frank Sinatra, the recommendation is clear: non-Christmas music is a definite no-go. As an aficionado, I can vouch for the unparalleled joy that Christmas music brings, setting the perfect festive ambiance.
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Harmony over Discord: The writer wisely advises against family squabbles, urging readers to set aside differences for the day. Drawing from personal experiences, I can attest to the significance of fostering a harmonious atmosphere during Christmas gatherings, even in the face of familial idiosyncrasies.
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Appetizer Moderation: The article wisely warns against overindulging in appetizers and desserts before the main Christmas meal. This advice stems from practical experience, acknowledging the temptation posed by delectable pre-meal treats. It's a subtle reminder to savor every aspect of the holiday feast.
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Comfortable Attire Awareness: The post highlights the inevitability of a 'food baby' post-feast, stressing the importance of bringing comfortable clothes. This nugget of wisdom resonates with anyone who has experienced the simultaneous delight and discomfort of a Christmas feast.
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Photographic Legacy: The article underscores the importance of capturing moments through photos, acknowledging that, though tiresome in the moment, these snapshots become cherished memories. As an advocate for preserving precious moments, I can attest to the timeless value of holiday photographs.
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Gift Etiquette: A crucial point is not to forget your gifts and to avoid showing up empty-handed at a Christmas party. This aligns with the unwritten rules of gift-giving etiquette, emphasizing the thoughtfulness and effort behind each present.
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Patience with Presents: The advice to refrain from incessantly asking about opening presents resonates with the anticipation that often surrounds gift-exchange rituals. It suggests embracing the suspense and relishing the excitement, contributing to a more memorable Christmas experience.
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Graceful Gift Reception: The article addresses the potential awkwardness of receiving a less-than-ideal gift, stressing the importance of graciousness and tact. This piece of advice reflects the universal truth that the sentiment behind the gift often surpasses its material worth.
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Embracing the Joy: Amidst the hustle and bustle, the article encourages readers to try their hardest to have a good time. This resonates with the overarching theme of making the most of the day, even if external factors threaten to dampen the holiday spirit.
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Farewell Affection: The final point, a gentle reminder to hug and express love when leaving, is a heartfelt conclusion. It emphasizes the essence of family bonds and the emotional resonance that makes Christmas truly special.
In conclusion, these ten guidelines serve as a comprehensive manual for navigating the intricacies of Christmas Day, ensuring a joyous and memorable celebration for all. As we approach the festive season, let us embrace these tips and make this Christmas a truly magical experience for ourselves and our loved ones. Merry Christmas, one and all!
