Presents on Christmas Eve
It's tradition to open presents on Christmas morning, but Midwesterners are more likely to open them the night of Christmas Eve.
My family does this, but Santa would still come every Christmas morning. Now we save 1 present for each of us to open on Christmas day. Impatience plays a part, but it gives everyone a little more time to enjoy their presents and use gifted cookware for Christmas dinner.
Gifts play a central role for Christmas. The things we own carry more meaning when they come in a box topped with a bow from someone you care about. Beyond the anticipation and unwrapping, when you get to use a thoughtful present from someone, the present stands out more.
The toy itself never makes Christmas a meaningful experience.
