Americans are ‘over’ Christmas traditions — with a third wanting to swap traditional turkey for a juicy burger.
A poll, of 2,000 adults who celebrate the festive period, found 31 percent are bored with the usual Christmas customs and would like to see more unusual alternatives during the lead-up to the big day.
Of those on board with the idea of a meal switch-up, pizza (44 percent), tacos (38 percent), and even Chinese takeout (34 percent) were cited as preferred options over the traditional festive bird.
It also emerged that 47 percent would prefer to spend the whole day in their pajamas rather than getting dressed up.
While 18 percent like the idea of doing a ‘friends-only’ Christmas, and 35 percent would choose to focus on quality time together over elaborate gifts or decorations.
A spokesperson for St Pierre Bakery, which commissioned the research, said: “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.
“Exploring new ways to celebrate, from alternative cuisines to unique gift-giving ideas, can reignite the excitement and create memories that feel fresh and meaningful.”
The study also found that of the 60 percent who have eaten something untraditional on Christmas Day, 37 percent had pizza, 31 percent chose pasta, and 28 percent served up burgers.
And half said their unusual choice of meal was more enjoyable than they thought it would be.
It also emerged that 43 percent have adopted their own Christmas traditions from when they were children, while only 16 percent have introduced new traditions as an adult.
Nearly seven in 10 (69 percent) are also interested in creating new festive customs unique to them or their family and friends.
But 62 percent think there is an obligation to follow December traditions, with 49 percent saying people are generally nervous about boycotting them.
Although 22 percent of those polled, via OnePoll.com, reckon their loved ones would feel ‘excited’ if they were to swap them for alternatives instead.
Of those who are open to the idea, sending Christmas cards (32 percent), Elf on the Shelf (28 percent), and holiday parades (25 percent) are among the traditions they would be most open to swapping.
The spokesperson for St Pierre Bakery added: “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.”
TOP 10 CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS AMERICANS WOULD BE OPEN TO SWAPPING
1. Sending Christmas cards
2. Ugly Christmas sweater parties
3. Gift-giving
4. Secret Santa gift exchange
5. Listening to Christmas songs
6. Watching Christmas movies
7. Elf on the shelf
8. Christmas lights
9. Holiday baking and treats
10. Decorating a Christmas tree
TOP 10 THINGS AMERICANS WOULD PREFER TO DO INSTEAD OF THE USUAL CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS
1. Spend all day in pajamas rather than getting dressed up
2. Focus on quality time together rather than elaborate decorations, gifts, or meals
3. Take a vacation
4. Have a themed Christmas e.g. ‘tropical Christmas’ or ‘Christmas in pajamas’
5. Go on a quiet, personal retreat
6. Skip the big dinner and celebrate with an indulgent breakfast instead
7. Spend the day volunteering at a local charity, food bank, or shelter
8. Give and receive DIY gifts only
9. Friends-only Christmas
10. Swap gifts for handwritten letters of gratitude
