How to Survive (and even Enjoy!) a Family Christmas

We all know it: the family Christmas, while being a cherished tradition, can be equal parts heartwarming and hair-raising. It’s the time of year when you gather your nearest and dearest, all crammed into one house, fuelled by mince pies, sherry, and the vague threat of a board game meltdown.

But while the idea of a family Christmas may conjure up images of idyllic snow-covered scenes and matching pyjamas, the reality is often a little… messier. Between Aunt Sheila’s unsolicited life advice and your dad’s questionable turkey-carving skills, it’s easy to feel like you’re starring in a festive sitcom.

Fear not. With the right mindset (and perhaps a sneaky bottle glass of Baileys), you can not only survive your family Christmas, but also actually enjoy it. Read on to find out how.

Ways to Survive a Family Christmas

1. Set Realistic Expectations

First things first, let’s ditch the Hallmark movie fantasies. Your family is not going to suddenly transform into a scene from The Holiday. Uncle Bob will still tell the same joke he tells every year, at least one toddler will cry / break something / vomit during the King’s Speech, and someone will forget to bring the crackers.

And that’s okay! The key to enjoying a family Christmas is accepting that imperfection is part of the charm. Embrace the chaos, laugh at the mishaps, and remind yourself that it’s these quirks that make the day memorable.

2. Create Your Own Escape Plan

I’m not suggesting you fake an emergency and flee to the nearest hotel (although tempting). But it’s worth carving out a little space for yourself amidst the hubbub.

Take a brisk morning walk, sneak off for a cheeky nap, or offer to “check on the turkey” and spend a suspiciously long time in the kitchen. A few moments of solitude can work wonders for your sanity.

Pro tip: If you’re staying overnight, pack earplugs (Loop ones are the absolute best). Snoring relatives are not conducive to festive cheer.

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3. Be a Proactive Peacemaker

Family gatherings have a unique way of unearthing old grudges and sparking new ones. Whether it’s a heated debate about politics or a passive-aggressive comment about your cousin’s vegan roast, tensions can bubble up faster than a pan of boiling sprouts. And we all know that adult siblings quickly resort to their 10-year old bickering selves, especially in a confined space.

Your job? Channel your inner Switzerland. Change the subject, crack a joke, or distract everyone with a spontaneous round of charades. And if all else fails, distract the room by loudly asking, “Who wants another drink?”

4. Master the Art of Delegation

Gone are the days when Mum slaved away in the kitchen while everyone else lounged about in paper hats. Christmas is a team sport, and it’s all hands on deck.

Make a list, check it twice, and assign tasks accordingly. Other people can peel the spuds, baste the turkey, set the table and, most importantly, keep your drink topped up.

Bonus: Keeping everyone busy leaves less time for arguments.

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5. Embrace the Silly Traditions

Every family has their own peculiar Christmas quirks. Whether it’s an annual singalong, a fiercely competitive game of Scrabble, or a ritualistic battle over the last roast potato, lean into the silliness.

These little traditions are what make your family unique, so don’t be afraid to throw yourself into the madness. Who knows? You might even start a new tradition of your own.

6. Keep the Drinks Flowing (Responsibly, of Course)

Nothing takes the edge off a family Christmas quite like a festive tipple. A well-timed glass of mulled wine can turn even the most awkward small talk into a delightful conversation.

Just be careful not to overdo it—no one wants to be that person who accidentally falls asleep in the trifle.

7. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff

Burnt parsnips? Who cares. Missing gravy boat? Improvise with a mug. The cat knocking over the Christmas tree (again)? Laugh it off.

The day doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be enjoyable. In fact, it’s often the mishaps that become the best stories. Years from now, you won’t remember whether the Yorkshire puddings were Instagram-worthy, but you will remember your dad’s laugh when the dog stole a sausage.

8. Be Generous with Compliments

Let’s be real: Christmas is stressful for everyone. If your mum has spent hours perfecting the Christmas lunch, let her know it’s the best turkey you’ve ever tasted (even if it’s a bit dry).

Complimenting people on their efforts—whether it’s your brother’s wrapping skills or your aunt’s homemade trifle—is an easy way to spread goodwill and keep everyone in high spirits.

9. Bring a Conversation Starter

Nothing kills the vibe like awkward silence during dessert. Arm yourself with a few fun questions or topics to keep the chat flowing. Try:

• “What’s everyone’s favourite Christmas memory?”
• “If you could only eat one festive food for the rest of your life, what would it be?”
• “What’s the worst present you’ve ever received?”

You’ll be amazed at the hilarious and heartwarming stories that emerge.

10. Focus on Gratitude

Amidst the noise, the glitter, and the chaos, it’s easy to forget the reason for the season. Take a moment to reflect on what really matters: spending time with people you love (even if they drive you a little mad).

Gratitude has a funny way of making everything feel brighter, even when you’re stuck wearing an itchy Christmas jumper and sitting next to the relative who insists on chewing with their mouth open.

Final Thoughts

Surviving a family Christmas doesn’t require a miracle—it just takes a little patience, a lot of humour, and the ability to laugh at the madness. Remember, no family is perfect, but that’s what makes Christmas so wonderfully imperfect.

So, pour yourself a glass of bubbly, pass the pigs in blankets, and embrace the glorious chaos of a family Christmas. After all, it only comes around once a year.

Merry Christmas, and good luck! 🎄