The UK’s most popular (and the more unusual) Christmas routines

With Christmas Day in sight, 88% of the UK will celebrate with their own family traditions — some conventional, some not. But how do most spend 25 December?  Greeting card marketplace Thortful reveals all.

How late do people eat their Christmas dinner?

If you thought everyone ate at the same time, think again. The most popular slot is 2pm, chosen by 26% of people, while 18% prefer a slightly earlier 1pm feast. For 15%, 3pm is the magic hour, and 8% hold out until 4pm. At the extremes, 2% are already tucking in before midday, whereas another 2% wait all the way until 9pm for their festive meal, making it practically a Christmas supper.

What do people eat for Christmas dinner?

While many tuck in to a turkey, Thortful found many of us love to include unusual additions to our festive meal. 21% serve macaroni cheese, while another 21% bring curry to the table. 20% fire up the BBQ, and 22% opt for pasta. Grazers get their way too, with 19% adding a mezze platter, and 22% throwing chips alongside trimmings. For those who like things creamier, 17% make space for dauphinoise potatoes.

Which are the most popular Christmas Day traditions?

It’s the King’s Speech, with 89% tuning in. Present-opening varies: 16% unwrap in one go, while 14% prefer slow-and-steady. Board games and cracker jokes entertain 15%; 12% head to the pub for a drink — and 11% go carolling. When it comes to music, the nation’s favourite song is Wham’s Last Christmas, with Home Alone claiming the most popular film to watch for 24% of Brits. 

And what about unusual Christmas Day traditions?

Many Brits are tweaking the norm: 5% eat Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve, with the same amount opening all their presents on 24 December. Sticking with gifts, 2% sell unwanted gifts on sites such as Vinted instantly! And, as for healthy things to do, 3% go wild swimming on Christmas Day. We’ll stick with the 27% who prefer to stretch their legs by heading out for a morning walk.