Happy Festivus: Dec. 23 holiday focused on airing grievances

Embrace Your Inner Grump with Festivus

Feeling a bit grumpy this holiday season? Not in the mood for all the cheery festivities? Well, fear not, because there is an alternative holiday celebration that might just be right up your alley – Festivus.

Festivus, celebrated on December 23, is a day dedicated to those who prefer embracing their inner “bah, humbug!” rather than the traditional holiday spirit. It originated from the sitcom “Seinfeld” on December 18, 1997, when George Costanza’s father introduced the holiday as a way to counter the religious and commercial aspects of the traditional December holidays.

The holiday includes unique traditions such as a simple pole instead of a decorated tree and a special ceremony called the “airing of grievances,” where you can openly express how others have disappointed you. It’s a cathartic way to let off steam and vent about the challenges of the past year.

While it’s important to acknowledge and address grievances, it’s also essential to maintain a balance between expressing frustrations and seeking resolutions. Clinical psychologist Guy Winch advises distinguishing between grievances that are beyond your control and those that you can address directly.

Psychotherapist Tina Gilbertson emphasizes the importance of having a compassionate listener to validate your emotions when airing grievances. It’s not just about complaining but also about feeling heard and understood.

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the Festivus tradition, there’s even a ritual of wrestling with others to release tension. Just make sure it’s all in good fun and no one gets hurt.

So, go ahead and set up your Festivus pole, air your grievances, and embrace your inner grump. Just remember to leave a little room for positivity amidst all the venting, because even Festivus has its moments of levity. Happy Festivus!