British vs. American Christmas-WHICH COUNTRY DOES IT BEST?

[@GratiaCountryman]

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas” is a WW II song. It’s from the point of view of a soldier on the front. It’s a play on the idea that whenever a war breaks out, politicians say it will be a quick victory and everyone will be home in time for Christmas. The soldier in the song has learned that it isn’t true. But, in writing home he still tries to assure his family.

[@Heartwing37]

I know, this song always makes me feel sad…

[@curiodyssey3867]

If onlyyy in my dreaammss

[@vincentf1487]

I was home for 4th of July

[@toothless19375]

It between this one and White Christmas. Just the titles make me well up 😢

[@moonbaby1723]

Which is why this song always makes me weep like a small child

[@cmdreffietrinket]

Having just arrived in Wisconsin from England, I am just about to experience my first US Christmas. MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE.

[@idoc-2]

Bundle up and stay warm!!! There is a "polar vortex" air mass coming out of Canada that will bring severely COLD temps for Friday and Saturday. I'm in Indiana, and the forecast is blowing and drifting snow and blizzard conditions for Friday along with the cold!!!

[@irishbearman1044]

Welcome to the USA and a Merry Christmas to you and yours on both sides of the pond.

[@Heartwing37]

Merry Christmas to you too!!!

[@stockinettestitch]

You sound like Colin with the “cute British accent” from love actually! 😂

[@GalaxyFur]

Welcome to Wisconsin! The cheese capital of the world and home to around 20 of America's most drunken towns. 😋(We have a very heavy German and Irish population here.) But seriously I love Wisconsin here and we will likely have a white Christmas again this year with daytime highs around 11°F. (-12°C) So perfect Christmas-time weather. 😁

[@womobewo]

Merry Christmas 🎄 to both countries. God bless them both

[@CarlGorn]

Amen to that.

[@oldnan6137]

I don’t believe it is better, it is different! As someone who has lived in both places both do so wonderful, magical, and joyful things.

[@emilywhitfield2780]

You're right!

[@LindaC616]

Hear, hear!

[@tsugima6317]

How about an Aussie Christmas? Had a wonderful time there with my husband and sons.

[@emilywhitfield2780]

@@tsugima6317 True it really doesn't matter where you celebrate Christmas just as long as it's with loved ones!

[@tsugima6317]

@@emilywhitfield2780 I believe that... one of my favorite sci-fi authors said in one of her books "All true wealth is biological." It may be your family, friends, or even your pets, but having something or someone to love and love you back is what makes anything special.

[@chrisj.9882]

In the US, you get lots of Chrismas specials that aren't regular programs: Charlie Brown Christmas, for instance. You get lots of those old Rankin-Bass specials: Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, The Year Wthout Santa Clause, etc. Plenty of US shows do X-mas specials (even if they aren't extra-length). Community had a Claymation X-mas episode, for instance. The very first Simpsons episode was a Christmas special.

[@mggardiner4066]

Aren’t most episodes of a TV show around the time Christmas themed? You get everything from medical shows like House and Scrubs, cop comedy shows like Brooklyn 99, Dramas like This is Us, to sci-fi shows like Eureka all having a Christmas episode(s). Maybe they have fallen out of favor with streaming rather than broadcast schedules

[@shiichan32]

dont forget the grinch

[@llYossarian]

It's arguably a more significant tradition for British shows that will do an hour-long Christmas special in addition to what is often as little as only two 6-episode seasons...

[@elultimo102]

Don't forget about that immortal classic : "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians"😆😆😆

[@thomaslarson459]

Yeah. But Dr Who.

[@melaniefleming8919]

Canadian here, specifically Newfoundland and Labrador (once a British colony): We have a great mix of British and American Christmas!

[@marilynmcphail9221]

Same here in Ontario!

[@maxpowr90]

One of the best Christmas traditions, at least for Boston, is that we get a Christmas tree every year from Nova Scotia, as remembrance of the Halifax Explosion.

[@blackpowder4016]

And the Canadians have the best bacon, eh?

[@curiodyssey3867]

Um have you ever considered maybe creating and celebrating your own culture instead of appropriating the culture of others?

[@curiodyssey3867]

@@maxpowr90 odd thing to celebrate mate

[@HeartlandHunny]

Christmas crackers were in all the shops this year. We even got some for our family to share. After watching all those UK Christmas specials where characters pull crackers and wear paper crowns, we were starting to get jealous. 😂

[@balancedactguy]

@⁺⓵⓹⓸⓪⓹⓼⓹⓵⓻⓼⓪ Lost in the pond GET LOST FAKE LAURENCE!

[@janicesullivan8942]

I’m an American, we always had “crackers.”

[@moonglow630]

Christmas Crackers have been a must in our home for at least the last 6-8yrs.

[@rogerreed6235]

You can have whatever weather you want in the United States. Go north if you like snow, or south if you want sand and palm trees. Plus US food is so much more diverse, that I would argue that as well. No matter what you like, Merry Christmas to you and your kin!!

[@broncobubba3169]

My thoughts exactly.

[@chitlitlah]

Christmas enchiladas are the shizzle.

[@iamaloafofbread8926]

Sounds about right

[@occheermommy]

Tamales are amazing. We usually do a tenderloin for dinner instead of turkey. We get Christmas weather in California though. It’s like 40 degrees outside and I almost had to close the window. I like it cold when I sleep but not that cold.

[@tammyellison735]

@@occheermommy I do a prime rib or tenderloin too.

[@pacmanc8103]

I think Laurence forgot the most unforgettable type of Christmas music - traditional English carols are a delight to listen to. Handel, of course, is great for putting up the Christmas tree. When the Messiah finished, so was I. I think the Brits have the music category won hands down, legitimately. Chris Rhea? Please. Happy Holidays.🎄

[@maidenminnesota1]

Most Christmas Carols and Hymns that we're all familiar with are Old English melodies.

[@bieuxyongson]

I love the traditional carols too. Of course I also love Mannheim Steamroller, which is mostly traditional, just different!

[@davidh.4944]

@@bieuxyongson Big fan here too. One of my major memories was seeing Chip Davis in concert during his _Christmas in the Aire_ tour, back in '95. His is about the only version of _The Little Drummer Boy_ I can stomach.

[@bieuxyongson]

@@davidh.4944 I was able to see them when they came through our area about 15-16 years ago. I got the tickets as a surprise for my mom, who was visiting. She always loved them too. They were wonderful! We actually lived in Omaha when the first album came out. You could never get tickets to see them. They were so popular.

[@catgladwell5684]

There is a great deal of beautiful classical Christmas music too - Prokofiev, Bach, Berlioz and much more. You can hear them all on Classic FM in December and I love it. Some of the pop music is good too - Queen's Thank God It's Christmas, sung divinely by the great Freddie, is my favourite. And it wouldn't be Christmas without Noddy stentoriously announcing it at the top of his very impressive voice.

[@janjordal9451]

What I love about a good old English Christmas are the Christmas plays, caroling, concerts at the cathedrals. And of course going to the local pub on Boxing Day

[@theresedavis2526]

Britian's Christmas is a much superior experience than America's Christmas.

[@annfrost3323]

Was in Honolulu Hawaii in December long ago. Didn't feel like Christmas. Palm trees, ocean, beaches, surf boards, everybody wearing shorts. Snow makes Christmas more real.

[@stockinettestitch]

Oh yeah, I grew up in Minnesota and there’s nothing like being a kid, walking home from the sledding hill at night looking at the beautiful stars in the sky and there’s snow mounds all around you and you’re freezing cold and then you walk into your cozy warm house and can smell the Christmas tree and your mom’s got hot chocolate on the stove. You gotta have the snow! ☺️

[@rtyria]

Cold has it's own smell that is one of the essential smells of Christmas.

[@rcmaze8400]

Not essential at all! I really don't understand why some people think Christmas isn't Christmas unless you're freezing your tail off! I grew up in South Florida and way prefer the warm weather there to the low temps I am now subjected to bearing! The weather is usually cooler, but you can feel free to go outside to look at lights or meet with friends without the painful cold. I think it often comes down to where you grew up. I love warmer weather with decorated palm trees!

[@marcuslunsford9929]

America used to do Christmas special tv shows but they have faded out in recent years.

[@larrydlam]

Back when there were variety shows instead of reality tv.

[@emilywhitfield2780]

I know I miss those!

[@firstsisterJML1330]

@@emilywhitfield2780 me too! I guess we're old school.

[@beckyferris2390]

I've watched a few of the old Christmas specials on KZbin.

[@emilywhitfield2780]

@@firstsisterJML1330 yep I was born in 1963!

[@llYossarian]

4:35 - You get Hoosier demerits for leaving out Jingle Bell Rock _(dude who wrote it was from Martinsville, only an hour or so from Anderson...)_

[@dobetterwithchristian4472]

We have Tamales and gumbo for Christmas in South Texas, and those are some of the yummiest (non-cinnamon) foods ever! 😋

[@tonyricketts5569]

If there is an “Are You Being Served” Christmas Special then The British win. Especially if Mrs.. Slocombe talks about her “Cat” a lot.

[@cynthiaalver]

"Mr Humphreys! Leave my ***** alone!" I love that show.

[@TheresaPowers]

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE is the best Christmas film in history.

[@FourSeasons04]

Definitely the best Christmas movie, by it's also one of the best movies of all-time.

[@catlady1171]

I am American and Pecan Pie aside, my vote goes to Britain. BECAUSE of the 1951 British production of A Christmas Carol with Alistair Sim - not to mention Charles Dickens himself. This is my sure sign that it is the Christmas season because I have a ritual of watching it after Thanksgiving dinner.

[@lynnmartz8739]

From one cat lady to another... the 1970 Scrooge with Albert Finney is the one for me.

[@rcmaze8400]

I WAY prefer the George C Scott version.

[@jasonlescalleet5611]

American here, but my favorite Christmas viewing is probably a British TV special, in particular, the Doctor Who special “A Christmas Carol.” A great adaptation of Dickens classic that keeps the basic concept but isn’t afraid to change things up. The “ghost of Christmas Future” twist stands out in particular. I like other Doctor Who Christmas specials too (and face it, I just plain like a lot of Doctor Who episodes, period, but that’s the one I come back to for Christmas viewing.

[@susanyoung2427]

It’s just your wife’s family. Merry Christmas! 🎄🎁🎅🏻

[@dalemoore8582]

Our(American) sitcoms always had Christmas specials when I was growing up. I don't think that's a thing anymore

[@LindaC616]

Festivus lives on, 25 years later

[@KasumiKenshirou]

TV shows used to have ~30 episodes, per season, but now they have only around 12 (but still the same number of bad episodes).

[@dalemoore8582]

@@LindaC616 "A Festivus for the rest of us"

[@LindaC616]

@@dalemoore8582 👍

[@Kleineganz]

You're right that in the US we don't really do Christmas specials anymore, BUT we used to! Back in the heyday of variety shows during the 1970s, they did spectacular Christmas specials (not counting the Star Wars one, although it was kind of great in a cheesy sort of way). I swear it used to be a thing here way more than it is now.

[@FourSeasons04]

You're right! Not only Christmas specials, but decorations were EVERYWHERE... homes, businesses, shopping malls/centers, etc. You may still see it, but on a smaller scale.

[@Kleineganz]

@@FourSeasons04 Our Downtown still gets completely decked out in beautiful lights every holiday season and most homes in my neighborhood are decorated to one degree or another. No one has the overly gaudy light displays, thankfully (that would invite too much car traffic).

[@FourSeasons04]

@@Kleineganz You're fortunate. Here, it's pretty much of a hit or miss...there'll be 2-3 homes decorated and then nothing. It was far more festive many years ago.

[@Kleineganz]

@Marty's 4x4 Most of them are old though. Current shows that are airing go on hiatus during the holidays, instead of making holiday specials.

[@cjhansen6618]

Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to all.

[@LindaC616]

Same to you!

[@stockinettestitch]

We celebrate both and it’s fun!🎉

[@cjhansen6618]

@@stockinettestitch well than Happy Christmakkah to you.

[@BETH..._...]

Oooo Laurence ... can't wait to see this video 🎄

[@cleverduck3921]

My family usually does turkey for Thanksgiving, and then a prime rib roast for Christmas.

[@gr8babyshay]

Shout out to the house at 1:31. It’s in my neighborhood in Canarsie Brooklyn.

[@firstsisterJML1330]

I was wondering where that was

[@LindaC616]

Tell them they're famous, LOL

[@Joe___R]

In America, you have the option of a white snowy Christmas or laying out on a white sand beach during Christmas. Britain only has the option of a cold, wet Christmas or a cold Christmas. If they ever get a white Christmas, Christmas is canceled because everything shuts down from just a centimeters or two of snow on the ground.

[@marisbernardo7199]

It got to be Americans. I also choose Philippines because they celebrate 4 months of Christmas.

[@paulacornelison243]

We used to have musical specials during the 60's. They were great. The Bob Hope Christmas Special where he visited the troops was a family standard. You can see them on KZbin.

[@samanthab1923]

They were a big deal. My grand parents watched Mitch Miller every week so his Christmas show was a highlight. Same with all the other singers. Bing, Sinatra, Dean, Robert Goulet & Andy Williams.

[@occheermommy]

See I thought the Bob Hope ones were Christmas. I loved him as a kid.

[@paulacornelison243]

@@occheermommy He did do both.

[@lisathaviu1154]

My dad played in the orchestra for the Bob Hope show, so every year we used to get a Christmas card from Bob Hope. One year they had a little vinyl record with a funny monologue as an insert. My brother and I played it over and over. That was a really good Christmas memory!

[@paulacornelison243]

@@lisathaviu1154 You lucky dog! I am envious of you!!!!!!!!!

[@nate8088]

American here, and we always do the crackers with the crowns for xmas. :) So that's not just a UK thing.

[@a697ag]

Christmas pajamas are definitely an American Christmas tradition. We all get matching ones. It's corny but we love it

[@karenbrunton6529]

Christmas specials in the U.S. were a way bigger deal in the 70s when we only had a few t.v. channels and there was no entertainment on demand. Popular stars would be featured in musical variety shows. Ah, but we still love to watch Charlie Brown and Rudolph.

[@balancedactguy]

@⁺⓵⓹⓸⓪⓹⓼⓹⓵⓻⓼⓪ Lost in the pond GET LOST FAKE LAURENCE!

[@firstcynic92]

"I'll be Home for Christmas" was written during World War 2. The reason the singer will be home for Christmas "...but only in my dreams." Is that he's in the Army and can't get home.

[@sopdox]

Most tv shows would incorporate Christmas into their storylines but not do a stand alone special. There used to be loads of Christmas variety show specials like the one Bing Crosby did where he does a duet with David Bowie. The other specials would be aimed at kids and usually animated or stop-motion. The variety show ones stopped being a thing by the late 80s.

[@samanthab1923]

Even as a kid we would Andy Williams & Dean Martin specials with our parents.

[@occheermommy]

Was Bob Hope’s specials Christmas related or another time of year. I remember those in the 70’s but can’t nt remember the time of year. I was born in 71 so was very young during the 70’s

[@cynthiajohnston424]

The Bing Crosby - David Bowie duet is still a great listen today !

[@feralbluee]

:( there were so many of them when i was a kid and in the ‘60’s. The Dinah Shore Show, Sid Caesar, Your Hit Parade, Perry Como, The Smothers Brothers, the one with Goldie Hawn and all those great comedians, and, of course The Ed Sullivan Show (you have to sing that!).

[@moonglow630]

Our family has been doing matching Christmas pj’s since 1994. We get them on Christmas Eve & wear them Christmas morning.

[@marthaanderson2656]

I am surprised you did not touch on Christmas Panto. Just returned from London where the panto at Palladium, Jack in the Beanstalk, will go down as one of the best presentations of threatre magic I have ever seen

[@ailo4x4]

Hear him, hear him!! I'm a 22 year in Britain Yank and heartily agree with all the catagories. Well done! Ps. one tradition that I have always loved is watching the Queens Speech before opening prezzies. It will be the Kings Speech this year, of course.

[@c0ronariu5]

Oh dear. I forgot it was gonna be Charles this year 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@laurelcosten1012]

King Charles’ speech this year was great! I loved all the in and out extra videos that were inserted. And he has a lovely voice!

[@wolfewisdom]

I love the "jammies" tradition! Not getting into why I discovered that, but kudos to your wife's mum! Love Actually changed my life! I love you...just keep up! ♥️🎄

[@tcshack701]

One other set of Christmas specials that the Brits did well were the Downton Abbey ones. And yes a lot of the mysteries have Christmas specials. Britbox and Accorn have Christmas playlists broken down by category.

[@ericcrichardson]

ohh Lawrence ... we call looking at lights from the call our "Christmas Drive" your wife's family is not alone! :)

[@bieuxyongson]

I miss the mince pies and sausage rolls. A lady I worked with brought them in to work every year. I love Celtic Christmas carols too. And since I am working this Christmas weekend, we are doing Christmas on Boxing Day!

[@level_breaded5364]

He-he didn’t just insult grandma got run over by a reindeer. I’ve never really been mad at Laurence but I think that just might do it

[@LindaC616]

Philistine! Let's not tell him about Dominic the Italian Christmas Donkey! He'll ruin that one, too! Edit--nooooo....he went for Dominic, too!

[@ab5olut3zero95]

God forbid he hears about the rest of Ray Stevens’ Christmas songs or Robert Earl Keen’s Merry Christmas From the Family!

[@stockinettestitch]

I know and those are clever lyrics unlike that Paul McCartney song which I actually like by the way.

[@meli73934]

Gavin and Stacey! Mrs. Brown’s Boys! Big Fat Quiz!!! Come on! Those have all got to get extra pts!

[@srice6231]

The British wrote some of the best Christmas music, Hark the Herald Angels Sing (lyrics), The First Noel, but Americans sang some of the best...Dean Martin, Perry Como, Bing Crosby, Andy Williams.

[@stockinettestitch]

I think Andy Williams was Canadian

[@AirForceChmtrails]

I believe every country and every region in those countries do or does Christmas differently. In speaking from my own experiences I can safely say Sicilian and Southern Italian Christmases are quite the spectacle. To each his own.

[@francis2fly]

US used to do Xmas specials like back in the 1970's etc. Sometimes you will get a TV show to do a special Xmas episode. There are the regular Xmas favorites that will play on TV like Rankin-Bass - Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman or Charlie Brown Christmas.

[@stockinettestitch]

They’re still on TV, I’ve watched a couple of those twice with my grandkids already.🎉

[@JosueSantiagoG]

Yes. But over there, regularly running TV shows put on big shows. Here, this time of year is exactly when TV shows play reruns. We play expected Christmas specials. Traditional ones. There, they create new ones.

[@juliayoung537]

Merry Christmas ❤️

[@pammasheppard1338]

ummm I've heard Driving home for Christmas on the radio in the US and TV Christmas specials used to be a very big thing back in the olden days. BUT as you stated not so much any more.

[@rtyria]

There were a lot of things that used to be very big back in the olden days, but aren't anymore. America has lost so much of it's culture it's almost like a different place.

[@paulprovenzanotelejug7877]

You’re about to get heaps and heaps of snow starting Thursday!!

[@shadowangel3995]

Lawrence, check out Trans Siberian Orchestra they are a good mix between traditional and modern music. PTX and Lindsey Sterling also put a modern spin on old classics as well. Nightmare Before Christmas is both a Christmas and a Halloween movie.

[@ginger1549]

I was invited to a Christmas high tea on Dec 23 once , at Harrods dept store. OMG , it was very elegant.The tea was so good and the special Christmas cakes were unforgettable.If I'm ever in London at Christmas time again I will do it .

[@trinkab]

Britain has Hogfather.

[@jamescollins7899]

That reminds me, I need to watch that before the 25th!

[@alysiareid6659]

Thanks! My Mom was from England. I love listening to your accent.

[@LB-ou8py]

I always liked the Christmas tradition of giving pajamas but they are always opened on Christmas Eve so you wake up wearing your Christmas pajamas on Christmas day. Plus it gives the kids something to open early. We always did the big extended family affair and friends on Thanksgiving and intimate family affair on Christmas. For Christmas we never did Christmas dinner it was big all out breakfast since everyone was up early opening presents watching Christmas movies etc.

[@elittlebit493]

Lawrence! You forgot about ‘The Snowman’!! Probably the best Christmas show ever.

[@VanDanmark]

Muppet Christmas Carol is set in England, written by an Englishman, stars Michael Caine and was produced by American companies - but it was filmed at Shepperton Studios, by a mostly British crew - however it was directed by an American. In addition, Jim Henson's Creature Shop was located in Camden Town at the time... So is it American or British?? YES!

[@daffers2345]

We've come a long way since 1776 :B

[@cspat1]

I feel the same as others Not better, different. Christmas jammies on Christmas Eve so you look good in all the photos opening presents Christmas morning !

[@sassysuzy4u]

Great breakdown! I grew up in Canada and live in the USA now. I look forward to Big Fat Quiz of the Year every Christmas. Growing up we were always allowed to open 1 present on Christmas Eve which somehow always ended up being Pajamas for us to wear that night hahaha but we never went out to look at lights in pajamas except for some of the very tiny ones that we had all ready for bed so they could fall asleep on the drive around town.

[@EvieVermont]

Miracle on 34th Street! Best Christmas special ever !

[@colbullsigh6823]

How could you leave out the very best Christmas movie --- HOME ALONE???

[@stockinettestitch]

RIGHT?!!?

[@stockinettestitch]

I’m sorry guy but we have Vince Guaraldi’s A Charlie Brown Christmas for music. Instant win.

[@moonbaby1723]

Point of contention, Slade did one of my family’s favorite Christmas songs. The old English carols are also great favorites.

[@cmdreffietrinket]

Every time I hear that darn Slade Christmas song, I want to kill myself. 🙀😜

[@katieinvalpo]

Having pizza and driving around looking at Xmas lights was and is our family tradition on Xmas eve night.

[@Sgt_SealCluber]

We have Easter Ham and Thanksgiving Turkey, so that's probably why we are undecided on what to do for Christmas. Though my father has started making prime rib.

[@stockinettestitch]

We do the same thing for Thanksgiving and Easter and my husband made a crown roast once but we usually have ham. But you know what I’ve been looking forward to lately is our newly traditional lasagna on Christmas Eve…😋

[@Sgt_SealCluber]

@@stockinettestitch Food dye the ricotta cheese green and it will even be Christmas colors. 😁

[@katannep7798]

Right? We decided to go with pot roast this year

[@lookoutforchris]

A standing rib roast is traditional, with Yorkshire pudding of course and all the fixings. A goose is also acceptable, but I prefer the prime rib.

[@krononaut1]

The answer should obviously come down to whoever has the best food.

[@cmdrflake]

Two words: Clark Griswold . What? It couldn’t happen in the UK. Too expensive in the UK.

[@shellythom7248]

Used to always have white Christmases until I was in highschool then our winters got warmer. Not much snow. I miss the snowy christmases.

[@Lionofjuda957]

In Britain it's Merry Christmas and in the US its Happy Holidays, big difference.

[@lookoutforchris]

In America it is Merry Christmas as well.

[@maryvalentine9090]

It isn’t happy holidays for every American at Christmas time. I always say, “merry Christmas” during the Christmas season.

[@paulhenderson4884]

"The Muppet Christmas Carol" was filmed at Shepperton Studios.

[@kellybelk2874]

My great grandmother used to say Happy Christmas. Her family was from Ireland. I wondered if that was a leftover tradition? 🤔

[@kylesummers1565]

You left out Christmas Vacation. Peace, Love!!

[@lindsaymorrison7519]

American Christmas definitely wins with movies and the neighborhood Christmas lights. I was invited to spend Christmas once with my friends Scottish family when I couldn't afford to fly all the way home for Christmas while working in Europe, and honestly... Her family did Christmas better than any family in the US I know! Maybe it was just the newness of the different traditions and foods, but her mom went all out every day she had guests making sure we had four course meals lunch and dinner, different puddings all the time, etc. I loved decorating the Christmas cake with fondant icing and made a rather elaborate design with 3D figures that I never actually ate lol. The present unwrapping was very different too because we went person by person very slowly, so only one person unwraps at a time is and everyone else watched. It took all morning and part of the afternoon that way, but it actually was a really fun instead of frantically unwrapping everything in 20 minutes. Don't know if I would have liked it as an impatient child, but I really liked it as an adult. Christmas crackers are also super fun.

[@balancedactguy]

@⁺⓵⓹⓸⓪⓹⓼⓹⓵⓻⓼⓪ Lost in the pond GET LOST FAKE LAURENCE!

[@sassytbc7923]

My family has always done Christmas as you describe. Sure did teach lessons about patience.

[@sassytbc7923]

What is a panel show?

[@richb313]

Excellent job with an impossible task. I salute you on your solution.

[@logankerlee]

First one on here! SeemsGood As an American I'm biased and think that America has the better Christmas. I definitely think that we've got the better movies and music and shows as well. As far as Decorations and Family Time go, I'm not certain. Not because my family stinks or because I grew up in a home without any decorations.. no! I'm just not jumping on that.

[@chrisjarvis2287]

One of the best new Christmas specials this year is The Guardians of The Galaxy special.

[@katannep7798]

🎵 I don’t know what Christmas is, but Christmas time is here!🎶

[@ulisesurbina7184]

Hey Laurence, I think the US takes the weather one also. Here in Orange County CA; I like to say, not only can we BBQ on Christmas Day (in shorts and a t-shirt), but can also hit our local mountains for the snow; so we can do both on the say day. By the way the other reason why we take the weather, on Christmas Eve, it is going to be a cozy 79°f ( 26°c) and on Christmas Day a cozy 81°f ( 27°c); so it looks like instead of coats and MANY MANY warming layers later, we will be in shorts, t-shirt and sandals! MERRY CHRISTMAS PEOPLE

[@zuzuspetals9281]

Hence the writing of “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas “ many years ago.

[@yetinother]

It's -16F here, I would gladly have the British weather

[@jonathanwessner3456]

Britain has "The Hogfather" ... and "Anna and the Apocalypse" two of my more recent favorite Christmas movies/shows

[@lindastansbury2067]

Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to do these videos. I thoroughly enjoy every one of them. May you and your family have a joyously Happy, Healthy and Merry Christmas. Be safe. Be well. And, Ooh, Laurence, stay warm!

[@michaelparks6120]

Merry Christmas to my fish and chips eating brothers and sisters across the pond ! Hohoho ! 🎅

[@shadodragonette]

I kept waiting for you to list "Home Alone" as a Christmas movie, since it and it's sequels were all taking place during Christmas time. I didn't like those movies, I found them annoying, but they are Christmas standards for many Americans. You also missed "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas", "Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer" (animated old version, maybe 80's?), "Frosty the Snowman" (same time period as Rudolf), that one train move I don't remember but had to do with Christmas, and I am sure I missed quite a few...

[@TheresaPowers]

It's a wonderful Life" is the real Christmas film.

[@idoc-2]

"That one train movie" must have been The Polar Express with Tom Hanks?

[@shadodragonette]

@@idoc-2 Sounds right. Thanks for clearing that up. I watched it once, didn't care much for it, but it is a popular movie with others.

[@shadodragonette]

@@TheresaPowers Many would agree. I don't judge. I don't care for it, but you probably wouldn't like my favorite movies, either.

[@renaissancewomanfarm9175]

Maybe there should also be a candy category. Christmas is probably the only time of year that we go in for home made candies. In our home we go for fudge, salt water taffy, chocolate covered toffee, chocolate covered peanuts, and mock Bun bars....... and then there are the cookies. Sorry but a good cookie will beat a biscuit (even a jammy dodger) every single time.

[@nicholeritchey1383]

Twenty years ago, I was an American living in England. I enjoyed my Christmases there and when it was time to come back home, I brought The Snowman and crackers back with me. Also, my family goes out on Christmas Eve to look at all the lights. Merry Christmas!

[@bullettube9863]

I am interested to learn how other countries do Christmas, not just Britain and America, which share many of the same traditions due to our shared heritage. Here in America Italian Americans serve special Italian dishes, but what do the Italians do in Italy? It's also interesting that the Japanese now do Christmas in a big way, and even the Chinese are getting into it.

[@lnsargnet]

Yes, my family drives to see the Christmas lights the night before Christmas Eve. Sometimes if we were super good, we would get hot chocolate too ( we are from the U.S). I also enjoy your hockey reference (a penalty shootout at 8:18).

[@louisiv5809]

I think he was referring to the soccer phenomenon of penalty shootouts, but it might be hockey

[@rtyria]

We also drive around to look at Christmas lights - not in our pj's, though as a kid I seem to remember doing that. We were in pj's because we went to bed right afterwards.

[@occheermommy]

I like this idea and may adopt it when I move to florida next year. My grandkids just moved there and I’m in Cali so can’t do that with them but I would love to next year.

[@bobtricheii8966]

Merry Christmas!

[@douglasconner-worthy213]

Hey! Just a note you might not have thought of... My Dad was in the U.S.A.F., in fact, my younger sister was born in Ruislip... from a few months after my birth (in Florida) until I was in the 7th grade, we lived in the U.K., Germany, Turkey, Greece, and a few other spots. Christmas in England in the 50s was really hard on my folks because "nobody" had turkeys! In fact, I do not remember eating a Turkey until I was in the 5th Grade in Turkey, and then it was in the Base Canteen, and was only "deli" shaved turkey in a toasted sandwich! Christmas with my Grandparents in St. Petersburg, FL in 1966 was really my first American Christmas... and it was like landing on another planet! I had never seen so many lights in my life. I digress. My point is, perhaps, the difference between the U.K. and the U.S. maybe largely experienced by "when" it was experienced? P.S. hehehe, the last time I visited the U.K. was in 2004 and my greatest disappointment was trying to find somebody, anybody, who was able to serve me a glass of iced tea... with more than one or two tiny cubes of ice in it!!! Oh, and the British penchant for drinking room temperature beer? Ok, I'm gonna say it! Sacrilege!!!

[@intignia]

My dad was in the USAF also. He was stationed at South Ruislip from December 1967 thru June 1971. I was a teenager then. My mom was British so we had all her relatives to visit at East Hendred and there abouts. I LOVE British Christmas.

[@kimfleury]

There used to be Christmas TV specials in the US. We always watched the Bing Crosby Christmas Specials.

[@javdestiny]

We drive around to look at the lights on Christmas Eve, but not in our pajamas. Christmas dinner in the US is SOOO varied. My family's Christmas dinner was lasagna. Now I make brisket because it's my husband's favorite.

[@occheermommy]

Mine varies year to year. If I’m feeling up to it we do homemade ravioli. It’s a lot of work though. Sometimes I make tamales for Christmas Eve. Sometime we do fish like my Italian heritage for Christmas Eve (although I have only done the 12 fish once for my family here). I live in California so I adopt a bunch of traditions. Christmas Day is generally a feast. Christmas Eve is usually whatever we decide on. Tamales if we have them or fish or sometimes pizza. Just depends.

[@sorchaOtwo]

Favorite version of "A Christmas Carol," "Scrooge the Musical."

[@amberenyeart4833]

Hey Laurence what do you think of the upcoming Christmas blizzard???? IM EXCITED LOL😂

[@Cricket2731]

A blizzard??? Double YUCK! Snow removal sucks--whenever.

[@susanunger4700]

Yes! The Browns will be getting a wonderful White Christmas this year! He can go walking in a winter wonderland for his video that day....

[@idoc-2]

Yep, I'm in Indiana, and there is a "polar vortex" air mass coming from Canada that will cause near 0 degrees F temps, and blowing and drifting snow with blizzard conditions on Friday into Saturday. I'm the snow shoveler in our family, so not thrilled with such a forecast!

[@halo0205]

I love that you mentioned Dominick the Donkey. I love this song it is silly. Brings back some fun and happy memories. 😊

[@formermichiganian]

Love this video! I really like old English movies especially about Christmas. Dickens is the best. But you didn't mention "Christmas Vacation" one of the US classic Christmas movies. You have to see it if you haven't. I haven't tried any of the classic English puddings, cakes, etc, but will have to make them some day. Have a Merry Christmas and hopefully you'll not get too much snow. But then you are close to lake Michigan, and with the lake effect, you can possibly get a lot and temps are really cold. Glad I'm in AZ now. We get into the upper 30's sometimes and low 40's at night. I know, wha....wha...🥶😁

[@iluragennette]

When I was little the music that my mother is played was sung by Frank Sinatra

[@AirForceChmtrails]

My Sicilian mom's Christmas lasagna and other treats like biscotti and canoli are much to be preferred.

[@LindaC616]

How 'bout them 7 fishes!? 😄

[@weareatrandom]

You just reminded me. America used to do yearly Christmas specials all of the time when I was a kid. The most notable has to be the original Simpson’s Christmas special that kicked off their spin-off series. Yes the Simpson’s IS indeed a spin-off of the Tracy Ullman show. Who is a British-American actress I might add. You’ve never seen a bunch of kids so excited for a commercial break in all of television history. If you know, you know.

[@steelsheen]

this is a great vid Lawrence 😁👍👍, when it comes to Christmas traditions, I gotta hand it to the UK, those Christmas crackers and the paper crowns are simple but special, beats the commercialized glitz and glamor that I'm used to in America. and yes Christmas Specials are defo better in the UK, it's a great balance of something that's familiar but also something that's extra special, you can see the effort done from the regular shows, and they get a different schedule that emphasizes that it is a Special, and not just a holiday episode plugged in on the regular time slot.

[@heidicampbell1807]

We always opened our new pajamas on Christmas Eve and wore them out to look at lights 😊

[@cindiargumaniz2193]

I married into a large Mexican family. Our Christmas dinner always had tamales, ham, and some kind of barbecue. Plus all the sides. A big pot of beans, rice, macaroni and cheese, several kinds of potatoes, and my specialty was broccoli rice casserole. Others were different from year to year. And the dessert table would groan from all the pies, cakes, and cookies. One of our small gatherings was only 40 or so people. Then we would play a game, often Lotteria which I Mexican bingo. Then we would bring out the to go containers and divy up the rest to take home. The death of our matriarch then a week later my husband and then COVID-19 sent the family in different directions. I miss those days so terribly.

[@elultimo102]

😢😭😢---Our grandparents held us together. Most of the family traditions went with them, and we went our separate ways.

[@cindiargumaniz2193]

@@elultimo102 it's so sad for me but it's the way of life with us all. One generation gives way to the next. I wasn't able to have kids so now it's just me and my 5 kitties.

[@rtyria]

The family started drifting after Grandpa died, then at my Grandmother's funeral I figured I'd never see most of my cousins again. Especially the ones from the eastern side of the state. My husband says pretty much the same thing happened in his family after his Grandfather died. Fathers and Grandfathers do a lot to keep a family together.

[@elultimo102]

@@cindiargumaniz2193 ---I go by "El Ultimo" because I'm the only child of an only son, of an only son. I never had kids, because I believe I would be as bad a father as mine was, and didn't want to inflict that life-long misery and suffering on an innocent child. It's a bit sad to realize that I'll die alone, unloved, un-mourned, and will soon be forgotten----At least the grave is bought & paid for.

[@lorenecarden6312]

Best Christmas Films (with Reginald Owen): 1938 version of 'A Christmas Carol' -a British Film AND It's a Wonderful Life-American Film

[@willblake72]

US "Christmas weather" that's funny since it could be anywhere between -20 and 80 F depending on where you are. And I don't think there's an "American" Christmas menu. It's wildly different from place to place, much different from Thanksgiving. Anyway, fun comparison and you know holidays are always best whenever you're with the people you care about the most.

[@DrDaveW]

Pigs in blankets use streaky bacon, so basically the same bacon.