Christmas is one of the best times of the year, but let’s be real—some Christmas traditions are downright strange. Have you ever stopped mid-ornament-hanging or fruitcake-baking and thought, “Wait a second, why are we even doing this?” Here are 7 Christmas traditions that just don’t make sense, but we love them anyway:
Hanging Stockings by the Fireplace
Photo by Addy Mae on UnsplashWho decided socks were the best place to stash gifts? Sure, it’s quaint, but let’s not forget what stockings are usually filled with—feet. Historically, the tradition stems from the story of Saint Nicholas, who tossed gold coins into stockings drying by the fire. It’s a cute story and tradition. It’s a little weird, but still something you can’t help but do.
Eating Fruitcake
Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino on UnsplashAh, fruitcake: the immortal dessert. Literally. These dense bricks of candied fruit and nuts seem to last forever, possibly because no one eats them. How did this sugary doorstop become a holiday staple? Rumor has it, fruitcake’s long shelf life made it a practical treat in the olden days. But in the age of refrigeration, you don’t have to make or get fruitcake if you don’t actually like it. Switch it for something that’s more up your alley, it will still be Christmas!
Kissing Under the Mistletoe
Photo by Paul Zoetemeijer on UnsplashDid you know the cute little plant is actually a parasite? Mistletoe, while festive and adorable, is actually a plant that leeches nutrients off its host. Somehow, that translated to a holiday excuse for forced awkward kisses at office parties. No thanks! Can we upgrade this tradition to something less creepy, like high-fives under a poinsettia?
The Elf on the Shelf Surveillance Program
Photo by Louise Smith on UnsplashOkay, who thought a tiny snitch spying on kids 24/7 was a good idea? The Elf on the Shelf has gone from cute to borderline dystopian. “Be good, or the elf will tell Santa” feels more like a plotline for a “Black Mirror” episode than a holiday tradition. Also, does anyone really enjoy moving that little rascal around every night? Don’t think so!
Leaving Milk and Cookies for Santa
Photo by Fernanda Martinez on UnsplashWe’ve got questions. First, why milk? Santa is a grown man flying around in freezing temps—maybe he’d appreciate a hot toddy instead. And cookies? Sure, they’re delicious, but the guy is visiting millions of houses. That’s a lot of carbs to burn off in one night. But it’s for the kids and that makes it worthwhile. You have to keep the holiday magic alive for them for as long as possible, you know?
Decorating with Tinsel
Photo by Caleb Fisher on UnsplashWho looked at shiny plastic strips and thought, “This is what our tree needs”? Tinsel is messy, impossible to clean up, and gets everywhere, yet we keep using it. Did the cat eat it? Probably. Is it worth the hassle? Nope. Pro tip: stick to ornaments and lights, and you’ll have less of a mess to clean up every day.
Carolling Door-to-Door in Freezing Weather
Photo by David Beale on UnsplashThe sentiment of caroling is sweet, but also… it’s a bit awkward. Most people just peek through the blinds, praying you’ll move to the next house. Plus, it’s always freezing. That said, carols do bring the holiday season to life and you can’t deny it’s impressive that carolers can hold a note in that kind of weather.
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