The secular holiday Festivus entered the public consciousness in late 1997, courtesy of the Seinfeld episode titled “The Strike.” George Costanza, during his formative years, eschewed Christmas and Hanukkah in favor of observing “Festivus,” a holiday ingeniously concocted by his father Frank as a protest against the rampant commercialism of the season. The inception of the inaugural Festivus is a straightforward tale.
Frank Costanza, in pursuit of a doll for his son George, found himself in a tussle with another shopper over the last one. In the midst of a scuffle, Frank, reflecting on the senselessness of the situation, conceived the idea that there must be an alternative. Though the doll met an untimely demise, it paved the way for the birth of a new holiday—Festivus. A Festivus for the rest of us.
On December 23rd, families and friends gather, circling the traditional aluminum Festivus pole.
The Festivus traditions kick off with the Airing of Grievances, during which participants candidly express to their loved ones all the ways they’ve felt let down throughout the year.
The festivities culminate with the Feats of Strength, where the household’s leader tests their might against another family member or friend. Festivus doesn’t conclude until the head of the family is successfully pinned.
Happy Festivus!!!!
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