Festivus is celebrated around the world on December 23 every year. Although the holiday has gained in popularity, many people may not realized what it is. The term “Festivus” was coined by a character on the popular sitcom Seinfeld . In a 1997 episode, Frank Costanza, played by Jerry Stiller, declared the fictitious holiday.
In an effort to avoid the commercialism associated with the traditional Christmas holiday, Costanza created “Festivus… for the rest of us.” For those of us who want to celebrate the holiday in a unique and meaningful way.
Costanza’s holiday does not include decorations, gifts, or a Christmas tree. In place of a bright and colorful tree, Costanza introduced the Festivus pole. The aluminum pole is common and without decor — underlining his protest against a commercialized holiday.
Despite the obvious avoidance of Christmas tradition, the celebration does include a feast to be attended by family and friends. During the feast, the participants are invited to join the “Airing of Grievances.”
Grievance with my otherwise wonderful staff: leave the turtleneck alone. I like it and so do viewers.
— Senator Rand Paul (@SenRandPaul) December 23, 2013
The Airing of Grievances gives each guest an opportunity to discuss their disappointments and grievances . The discussion is expected to be honest, open, and without boundaries. The guests are encouraged to tell the other guests how they have hurt or disappointed them throughout the year.
The Senate cafeteria never has burgoo.
— Senator Rand Paul (@SenRandPaul) December 23, 2013
Minor grievance: I can never remember when to move my car for DC street cleaning.
— Senator Rand Paul (@SenRandPaul) December 23, 2013
Following the feast and Airing of Grievances, the guests are invited to participate in an activity called “Feats of Strength.” The activity gives the party’s host an opportunity to choose an opponent for a wrestling match. Festivus ends when the opponent successfully pins the host.
In Washington, “bipartisan deal” is a synonym for “increasing our debt”
— Senator Rand Paul (@SenRandPaul) December 23, 2013
As reported by Fox News , Kentucky Senator Rand Paul declared his Festivus plans via Twitter. Specifically, Paul used the time to air several grievances. In response to Paul’s ranting, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker eventually suggested a Feats of Strength challenge on the Senate floor.
One more Festivus grievance about bipartisanship. @CoryBooker doesn’t RT me enough.
— Senator Rand Paul (@SenRandPaul) December 23, 2013
U, me & “feats of strength:” Senate floor, name the time MT @SenRandPaul A Festivus grievance re bipartisanship. Booker doesn’t RT me enough
— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) December 23, 2013
There are many holiday celebrations throughout the winter season. However, Festivus may be one of the most interesting despite its unique origin.
