Modern Christmas Dinner Celebration Trending In Different Directions

Americans are rethinking Christmas traditions, with nearly a third considering alternatives to the classic turkey dinner.

At a Glance

31% of Americans are open to replacing traditional Christmas turkey with unconventional meals
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

Shifting Holiday Preferences

As the holiday season approaches, a recent survey by St Pierre Bakery reveals a significant shift in how Americans are choosing to celebrate Christmas. The traditional turkey dinner, once a staple of the holiday feast, is facing competition from more casual alternatives. Nearly a third of Americans are open to replacing the classic bird with unconventional choices such as burgers, pizza, or even Chinese takeout.

This trend towards a more relaxed holiday experience extends beyond just the dinner table. The survey found that 47% of respondents prefer spending Christmas Day in pajamas rather than dressing up in formal attire. This shift suggests a growing desire for comfort and intimacy during the holiday season.

Prioritizing Experiences Over Material Gifts

The changing landscape of Christmas celebrations is not limited to food and attire. The survey reveals a strong preference for shared experiences over material gifts. Nearly 80% of consumers prefer sharing a meal with loved ones rather than exchanging traditional presents. This shift towards experiential gift-giving is further emphasized by the fact that 79% of people favor gifts that provide an experience rather than material items.

Omaha Steaks President and CEO Nate Rempe said that, “Food uniquely delivers both the excitement of receiving a gift and the lasting memories of sharing an amazing meal with loved ones.” Rempe’s statement underscores the growing trend of food-centric gift-giving. The survey found that nearly 70% of adults aged 35 and older plan to gift food this holiday season, emphasizing the importance of connection and simplicity in holiday celebrations.

Creating New Traditions

While many Americans are seeking alternatives to long-standing Christmas customs, there’s also a strong desire to create new, meaningful traditions. The survey revealed that 69% of respondents are interested in establishing fresh festive practices. This trend towards innovation in holiday celebrations is balanced against a sense of obligation to maintain certain traditions, with over two-thirds of respondents feeling compelled to stick to conventional practices.

Some of the traditional elements that Americans are willing to forgo include sending Christmas cards, participating in the Elf on the Shelf trend, and attending holiday parades. Instead, many are opting for more personalized and relaxed approaches to celebrating, such as focusing on quality time with family or even taking a vacation during the holiday season.

The Role of Food in Holiday Memories

Despite the shift away from traditional holiday meals, food remains a central element in creating cherished Christmas memories. The survey found that 76% of consumers associate their fondest childhood holiday memories with food-related experiences. This connection between food and nostalgia is driving the trend towards food gifting, with many seeing it as a way to create new memories while honoring the spirit of the season.

A spokesperson from St. Pierre Bakery said, “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?”

As Americans continue to redefine their holiday celebrations, the emphasis on food, comfort, and shared experiences remains constant. Whether it’s through unconventional meal choices, casual attire, or new gift-giving practices, the evolving Christmas traditions reflect a desire for more personalized and meaningful holiday experiences.