Christmas Traditions Americans Are Ditching for 2024
“From swapping turkey for pizza to themed pajama parties, Americans are reinventing Christmas. Discover how we’re ditching traditions to reshape the holidays.”
Have I read correctly?
Ditching Christmas Traditions?
Is the traditional Christmas dinner becoming a thing of the past?
A recent study reveals that Americans are ready to shake up their holiday celebrations. From ditching the turkey for tacos to spending the day in pajamas, the findings show a growing trend for reinventing the holidays for more personal memories.
Breaking Away from the Old
According to the poll of 2,000 Americans who celebrate Christmas, 31% admit they’re bored of the usual festive customs. Nearly half (47%) prefer to spend the day in their pajamas, while 35% would rather focus on quality time than elaborate meals or gifts. A bold 18% even like the idea of a “friends-only” Christmas, opting for close camaraderie over extended family gatherings.
It’s not really “ditching” Christmas traditions but this growing desire for change reflects a willingness to embrace fresh ideas, making Christmas feel less like a repetitive obligation and more like a celebration tailored to modern lifestyles.
It’s not about losing the holiday spirit—it’s about refreshing it. Traditions evolve, and so should our celebrations.
Spokesperson at St Pierre Bakery
Ditching Christmas Traditions: The New Festive Feast
For those tired of turkey, 60% of respondents have already enjoyed an nontraditional meal on Christmas Day. Pizza topped the list of favorites (37%), followed by pasta (31%) and burgers (28%). In fact, half of those who opted for something different said it was more enjoyable than expected.
Here is the top 10 popular alternatives Americans want to see on their Christmas dinner tables replacing the traditional turkey:
- Steak & Potatoes
- Pizza
- Fried Chicken
- Tacos
- Seafood Platter
- Mac & Cheese
- Chinese Takeout
- Ribs
- Burgers
- Pancakes
Food plays a significant role in holiday celebrations, and many families are discovering that breaking tradition can lead to “magnifique” new memories.
Top Modern Traditions Taking Over
Beyond food, Americans are embracing creative new customs to bring the magic back into the holidays. Here is the top 10 of some modern traditions that Americans would prefer to do:
- Spend all day in pajamas rather than getting dressed up
- Focus on quality time together rather than elaborate decorations, gifts, or meals
- Take a vacation
- Have a themed-Christmas e.g. ‘tropical Christmas’ or ‘Christmas in pajamas’
- Go on a quiet, personal retreat
- Skip the big dinner and celebrate with an indulgent breakfast instead
- Spend the day volunteering at a local charity, food bank, or shelter
- Give and receive DIY gifts only
- Friends-only Christmas
- Swap gifts for handwritten letters of gratitude
These fresh approaches allow families to focus on what matters most—connection, gratitude, and joy—while leaving behind some of the stress and commercialism often associated with the season.
Watch the Trends Come to Life
To highlight these findings, St Pierre USA created a video to showcase the key findings. Check out the video below:
It’s Time to Rethink Christmas
While nearly 70% of respondents are eager to create new customs, 62% feel obligated to follow traditional ones. However, this study shows there’s excitement about exploring unique ways to celebrate, whether it’s a tropical Christmas or an indulgent brunch.
From endless turkey dinners to familiar carols, some families are craving a fresh twist. Reigniting the holiday spirit doesn’t mean leaving traditions behind; it means making them your own.
Spokesperson at St Pierre Bakery
If you are looking for some new recipes to reignite your festive menus, St Pierre has got you covered:
Christmas Leftover Turkey & Stuffing Brioche Burgers
“Add a Parisian twist to your leftover Turkey and stuffing from Christmas with our recipe for a leftover turkey and stuffing brioche burger.”
View recipeChristmas Eggnog Waffles
“Indulge in the creamy, festive delight of Christmas Eggnog Waffles – crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside. An easy six-ingredient, crowd-pleasing treat for a cozy, holiday breakfast or brunch. ”
View recipeWhether you’re swapping turkey for tacos or writing letters instead of buying gifts, this holiday season is the perfect time to embrace modern traditions that bring joy and create cherished memories for years to come.