For many families in the U.S., the holiday season is a marathon of joy that officially begins the moment the Thanksgiving leftovers are packed away. From the glowing trees in city squares to the smell of fresh-baked cookies, Christmas traditions are a unique blend of religious heritage and modern fun.
In this guide, we’re exploring the most beloved Christmas traditions, including how to host the perfect holiday movie marathon to keep the festive spirit alive.
The Most Popular of Christmas Traditions – Your Tree
The center of almost every American home during December is the Christmas tree. According to Real Christmas Tree Board data, millions of families still prefer the scent of a real evergreen, though artificial trees have become a dominant, convenient choice for many.
- Tree Lighting Ceremonies: Most major cities hold public lighting events, with the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree in New York City being the most famous globally.
- Ornaments and Heirlooms: Decorating the tree is often a family event, where hand-crafted ornaments and decades-old heirlooms are hung while listening to classic holiday albums.
Dazzling Light Displays and “Tacky” Tours
Outdoor decorating has evolved into a friendly neighborhood competition. Many Americans spend weeks stringing thousands of LED lights and setting up inflatable characters.
- Neighborhood Walks: One of the most favorite Christmas traditions is to bundle up, grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and walk or drive through local neighborhoods to see the Christmas light displays.
- Professional Shows: Many botanical gardens and parks host “Walk-Through” or “Drive-Through” light shows, such as the Holiday Festival of Lights, which has become a staple for regional tourism.
The Ultimate Christmas Film Marathon
Perhaps the most “cozy” of all Christmas traditions is the holiday movie marathon. Whether you prefer black-and-white classics or modern comedies, watching these films is a non-negotiable part of the season for 72% of Americans.
The Essential Marathon List:
- The Classics: It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) and Miracle on 34th Street (1947). These are the pillars of holiday cinema.
- Family Comedies: Home Alone (1990) remains the most-watched Christmas movie of all time, followed closely by the modern masterpiece Elf (2003).
- The “Is It a Christmas Movie?” Debate: No marathon is complete without a screening of Die Hard or The Nightmare Before Christmas to spark a friendly family argument.
- The Animated Specials: A Charlie Brown Christmas and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer are essential viewing for children and nostalgic adults alike.
Festive Food and Baking Spirits Bright
Christmas traditions including food is at the heart of the American Christmas. While the main dinner often features ham, turkey, or prime rib, the “real” star is the dessert.
- Cookie Exchanges: Many friends host “Cookie Swaps” where everyone brings several dozen of one type of cookie and leaves with a variety of others.
- Gingerbread Houses: This tradition—originally German but now firmly American—is a creative (and messy) way for kids to build edible architecture.
- Cookies for Santa: On Christmas Eve, children traditionally leave a plate of cookies and milk for Santa Claus, often accompanied by a carrot for the reindeer.
Stockings, Gifts, and Secret Santas
Gift-giving is a major component of the U.S. holiday, with NRF statistics showing that Americans spend hundreds of dollars on loved ones each year.
- The Stocking: Hung by the chimney with care, these are filled with “stocking stuffers”—small gifts, candies, and fruit.
- Secret Santa: In workplaces and large families, “Secret Santa” or “White Elephant” exchanges allow people to give one thoughtful (or hilarious) gift rather than buying for everyone.
6. Community and Religious Services
For many, the religious significance of Christmas is the primary focus. It’s not uncommon for people to display “Keep Christ in Christmas” banners as a reminder that Christmas originally celebrates the birth of Jesus.
- Midnight Mass: Many churches hold services late on Christmas Eve, often featuring candlelight and traditional carols.
- Charity and Giving: “The Season of Giving” is among the most important Christmas traditions. The season sees a massive uptick in volunteerism, with many families spending time at local food banks or participating in “Angel Trees” to provide gifts for children in need. Christmas Navigator believes the truest way to honor the holiday spirit is by giving back to those in need. We turned our passion into purpose, and are committed to donating 20% of our site revenue to charitable organizations.
Last Updated on March 6, 2026 by Navigators