This exciting time of year is marked by nostalgia, Mariah Carey, and lots of gift wrapping. Millions look forward to Christmas every year, and it typically represents a time to slow down and gather with family. However, can Christmas confidently be designated as the best holiday? While many Athens Academy students have described Christmas as their favorite, a vocal minority have argued that other holidays reign supreme.
Christmas is statistically the most popular and widely celebrated holiday in the US. Unlike other holidays, the season of Christmas typically takes up the entire month of December with its traditions. That’s arguably one of the best parts of the holiday: there are so many reasons to enjoy it. Whether Christmas is a favorite because of the vibrant decorations or the joyful music, everyone can find their reason for the season.
Junior Mariah Henderson stated that Christmas is her favorite holiday because it reminds her of “the love of Jesus” and she gets to “spend time with family.” Many cite the religious aspect of Christmas – honoring the birth of Jesus – as their primary reason for its importance.
However, others may love the holiday due to the sense of togetherness found in the Christmas spirit, time in community, or holiday cheer. Parker Minter stated, “Christmas is my favorite because I get two weeks off of school, and I get to eat loads of food like turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.” Clearly, a blend of factors contributes to Christmas being declared the favorite holiday of Athens Academy students.
Thus, if Christmas is such a beloved holiday, then why would some not describe it as their favorite? Well, the reasons cited by students on our campus bring a humbling and eye-opening perspective.
When asked about the holiday, Julia Adang expressed sympathy, saying, “I think about people who don’t have presents, and I just feel bad.” She went on to describe the weeks surrounding the holiday as “stressful” because students are expected to study for exams while simultaneously purchasing and preparing thoughtful gifts for friends or family.
From an analytical standpoint, the American Psychological Association also found that some of the most common causes of stress during the holiday season are financial issues, missing loved ones, and having too much to do.
So, is Christmas the best holiday? That decision is based on individual perspectives, but there are evidently arguments for and against America’s most popular season.
