New Trends Are Reshaping American Christmas Celebrations

Santa hand giving thumbs up Christmas lights

Americans are shaking up Christmas traditions, with nearly a third ready to ditch the turkey for burgers and pizza.

At a Glance

31% of Americans are considering non-traditional Christmas meals like burgers and pizza
Nearly 80% prefer sharing a meal over receiving traditional gifts
69% are interested in creating new festive traditions
47% prefer spending Christmas Day in pajamas over dressing up
35% prioritize quality time over elaborate gifts or decorations

A Shift in Christmas Cuisine

As the holiday season approaches, a surprising trend is emerging across American households. According to a recent survey conducted by St Pierre Bakery, nearly a third of Americans are ready to break away from the traditional Christmas turkey dinner. Instead, they’re opting for more unconventional fare, with 44% expressing a preference for pizza, 38% for tacos, and 34% for Chinese takeout.

This culinary shift reflects a broader change in how Americans view their holiday celebrations. The survey revealed that 60% of respondents have already tried non-traditional meals during Christmas, with pizza (37%), pasta (31%), and burgers (28%) being popular alternatives. This move away from the classic turkey dinner suggests a desire for more relaxed and personalized holiday experiences.

Prioritizing Comfort and Quality Time

The reimagining of Christmas traditions extends beyond just the dinner table. A significant 47% of Americans now prefer spending Christmas Day in their pajamas rather than dressing up in formal attire. This shift towards comfort aligns with a growing emphasis on quality time and meaningful experiences over materialistic aspects of the holiday.

“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,” according to a spokesperson for St Pierre Bakery.

Indeed, 35% of those surveyed stated that they prioritize quality time with loved ones over elaborate gifts or decorations. This trend towards simplicity and togetherness is reshaping how families and friends choose to celebrate the holiday season.

The Rise of Food Gifting

As Americans seek more joy and less stress during the holidays, there’s a noticeable trend towards food gifting. Nearly 80% of consumers prefer sharing a meal over receiving traditional gifts, indicating a shift towards experiential and stress-free holiday experiences. This preference for culinary gifts is particularly strong among adults aged 35 and older, with nearly 70% planning to gift food this holiday season.

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

The appeal of food gifts lies in their ability to create shared experiences and lasting memories. A remarkable 76% of consumers associate their fondest childhood holiday memories with food-related experiences, underlining the emotional connection between food and festive celebrations.

Embracing New Traditions

While change is in the air, it’s not without its challenges. Over two-thirds of Americans feel compelled to stick to traditional practices, and 49% believe others are hesitant to change. However, there’s a growing appetite for new traditions, with 69% expressing interest in creating fresh festive customs.

Some traditions that Americans are willing to reconsider include sending Christmas cards, participating in Elf on the Shelf activities, and attending holiday parades. Instead, many are gravitating towards spending the day in pajamas, focusing on quality time with loved ones, or even taking a vacation during the holiday season.

The Future of Christmas Celebrations

As Americans continue to redefine their holiday experiences, the future of Christmas celebrations looks set to be more diverse and personalized. Whether it’s swapping turkey for tacos or trading formal wear for pajamas, the emphasis is clearly on creating meaningful, stress-free holidays that resonate with individual preferences and values.

“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. 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,” the spokesperson for St Pierre Bakery said.

As we move forward, it’s clear that the spirit of Christmas remains strong, even as its expressions evolve. The focus on food, comfort, and quality time suggests that Americans are finding new ways to celebrate that align with their values and lifestyles, ensuring that the holiday season remains a time of joy, connection, and cherished memories for years to come.