The on the unforgettable Seinfeld episode, aired on December 18, 1998, Festivus and its traditions had become a household name. the name of the episode was entitled “The Strike” and it all began when the character of George had lied to his boss in an effort to get out of giving Christmas gifts to his co-workers. Claiming that religious beliefs prevented him from giving the holiday gifts, he told his boss that he celebrated Festivus instead of Christmas. The rest is history as millions of viewers were glued to their televisions to find out just what Festivus was.
Festivus is celebrated two days before Christmas, on December 23. There are certain practices that one follows during the celebration. The most famous being the “Airing of Grievances”. During this event, when friends and family members are gathered around, each must tell each other all of the ways that they have been disappointed and letdown by everyone. Obviously, this is highly amusing; as the last thing a person should normally do on a holiday is anger their friends and family by complaining.
Festivus is also celebrated with a holiday dinner. During this dinner, in the middle of the time when everyone is enjoying the meal, a practice called the “Feats of Strength” is performed. The goal of this event is the head of the house chooses one person to prove their strength. The chosen family member must then try their best to wrestle the head of the household to the floor and pin them down; thus proving their strength over the leader of the home. The family member may decline if they must work overtime at work. However, the celebration will not end, until the head of the household is indeed pinned down.
As opposed to the traditional Christmas tree that so many people decorate with during the winter holidays, when it comes to Festivus, only a metal pole is needed. According to the rules of this silly holiday, the pole represents dismay for the commercialization of decorated trees. A plain and unadorned pole is displayed instead. As Frank Costanza, the character of George’s character humorously explained, he believed the tinsel on trees is distracting.
Based on what the Seinfeld show has taught us about Festivus, miracles can occur on this holiday also. The characters speak of Festivus miracles such as running into people unexpectedly just when they were in someone’s thoughts.
Because this holiday was made so famous by the television show of Seinfeld, some people celebrate it exactly as it was shown on the show; however other in a spirit if fun and amusement add their own touches to this holiday and make it even more outrageous.