The worst things about Christmas

Sick of all the Christmas festivities already? Here are the worst things about 25 December...

I love Christmas.

Not exactly a controversial statement but one I felt I had to make right at the start because - in this article - I’m not going to be talking about why I think Christmas is so fantastic.

After all, it is a time of year when we are encouraged to spend, spend, spend - even if you can't afford it. As a result, here at lovemoney.com, we see a huge spike in applications for credit cards in January every year as people get into debt to pay for the excesses of the previous month. Unfortunately, despite all the lessons people should have learned from the credit crunch, I have no reason to think this year will be any different.

For this reason, today, I'm going to examine some of the worst things about Christmas, the things that encourage us all to spend like there's no tomorrow.  Imagine me donning my Ebenezer Scrooge hat, take a deep breath and read on:

1. The constant music

Aah Christmas music. It’s exactly the same stuff year after year. Surely by now, someone could have released something new? But instead, wherever we go, we have to listen to the same old renditions of ‘I wish it could be Christmas every day’ (do you? Do you really?), ‘Do they know it’s Christmas?’ and ‘Rockin around the Christmas tree’.

The shops play this music constantly, to emphasise that Christmas is coming, you need to get ready, it's almost here, buy gifts now, today... quick! Hurry! What are you waiting for? Everyone else is doing it... Show some Christmas spirit! Buy more! And more! And more! It's Christmas!

And what happened to waiting to find out what the Christmas number one would be? I used to actually care (well, sort of), but now we all know it’ll just be another Simon Cowell production. In other words, your choice isn't really a choice - so keep your money in your wallet.

2. The adverts

In the run up to Christmas, there’s a never-ending stream of Christmas adverts hitting our screens. I hate that Christmas advert for Lakeland. Not only is it annoyingly catchy - 'My mother's wicked!' - it's sad that mothers seem to feel they have buy their children's affection and praise at Christmad. Plus it ruins the fantasy of Santa Claus.

Of course, if it’s not just the odd irritating ad. It’s the endless ads for perfume, furniture stores and supermarkets. It’s just so boring. (The only advert I actually like is the one for Coca-Cola and yet it only gets shown about three times a season. Rubbish.)

3. Christmas starts in October

Every year, Christmas seems to start earlier and earlier so that by the time the big day arrives, you’ve already had enough of it. I mean, is it really necessary to have decorations, mince pies and Christmas puddings on the shop shelves so ridiculously early? Is anyone really going to buy them?

4. Buying presents for people you don’t like

It’s bad enough having to try and hunt down presents for the people you love. But when it’s for family members or acquaintances you couldn’t give two hoots about, it’s a different story.

Why should you have to spend your hard-earned cash on these people? And what exactly are you supposed to buy for your Great Uncle Sid anyway? After all, you know he’s only going to take one look at it and then go back to snoring in his rocking chair.

5. Stupid decorations

Every year someone has to do it. The huge snowman on your neighbour’s window, the inflatable Homer Simpson dressed as Santa Claus on top of the roof, the garish flashing lights in every city centre.

What’s even more annoying though is that just as you start to appreciate the fact that there’s a bit of sparkle to brighten up the dull and depressing winter, Christmas is over, the lights all come down, and we’re plunged back into darkness.

6. Traditional food

I must ask this question. Why was marzipan ever invented? It’s disgusting. Surely something else could be put on Christmas cake. I’m sure 99% of the population hate the stuff. What a waste of money.

And why do all Christmas desserts contain mountains of raisins and dried peel? Mince pies, Christmas pudding, Christmas cake, Stollen, the list goes on. Dried peel is another thing that can be binned in my opinion. Yuck.

Read Eight steps to a frugal Xmas lunch for some top tips on enjoying your Christmas food for less.

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If you agree with me about this stuff, have a read of Six steps to a stingy Christmas. It should help to ensure that at least you don't end up desperate for a credit card to pay off your debts next year.

Merry Christmas - and good luck.

Tell us what you think

What are the worst things about Christmas in your view? Do you think it's worth getting into debt for? Let us know your thoughts using the comments box below!

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