A FESTIVUS FOR THE REST OF US!

A beginners guide to everything Festivus!

By now, you’ve seen posts on social media wishing you a Happy Festivus, and you have no idea what this person is on about. Well, thankfully you’ve got me to explain the in’s and outs what this fictional holiday is all about.

First, some history. On December 18, 1997 a classic episode of the sitcom Seinfeld hit the airwaves where Festivus was born.

Frank Costanza (played by the late, great Jerry Stiller), disappointed by all of the commercialism of Christmas, ponders, “There has to be a better way!”

Decoration:

A single, aluminum pole. Because, let’s face it, tinsel IS distracting.

Festivus Rituals:

“The Airing of Grievances”

This seems like the perfect activity in the year 2020. Now, typically, you let your friends and families know the different ways they’ve disappointed you over the last year. But, sitting around the table (or Zoom call) venting about all the ways the year 2020 has been a thorn in your side, could be quite cathartic.

“Feats of Strength”

Now in the classic Seinfeld episode, Frank declares that Festivus is not over until the head of the household is pinned in a wrestling match. No real explanation is given as to why this is. Personally, I’d advise against this activity. Maybe substitute The Feats of Strength with a game of Cards Against Humanity. Less violence but just as much awkwardness in front of your immediate family.

And there you go! You’re an expert on everything Festivus. Also, if you’ve never seen “The Strike”, it’s in Season 9 of Seinfeld, available on Hulu.