The Rise of Christmas Consumerism
As the leaves burst into shades of reds, browns, and gold, and holiday ads flood our screens, it’s hard to ignore that Christmas is just around the corner.
For many, the holidays are a time to celebrate faith and family. But for major retailers, it’s a season of cashing in. With the holiday spirit stretching across the winter and fall months, these retail corporations’ focus becomes clear: profit. According to the National Retail Federation, during the winter holiday season, the average person spends over a thousand dollars on Christmas shopping alone. But what does this consumerist frenzy mean for the true spirit of the holidays?
Since the beginning of October, retailers have begun to expand their marketing. However, this increase in retail activity has been on the rise since the early 1900s. As Christmas shifted to become a secular activity, new arguments of what Christmas “should be” became the perfect opportunity for major companies to capitalize on this holiday season.
Now, by the time December rolls around consumers are bombarded with ads encouraging early holiday spending. Additionally, social media apps such as Instagram and TikTok encourage further spending through the promotion of large brands and “must-have” gifts cohesive with the current trends. “It’s about the name brand, and it’s keeping up with everyone else,” English teacher Victoria Devincenzi says.
Devincenzi understands the importance of giving gifts but feels that materialism often takes away from what truly matters during the holiday season. “I love the spirit of it all, and how everyone is appreciative of all that they have,” she says, “but I do think that it gets kind of drowned out by the materialism of it all.”
Gifts play a fundamental part in Christmas traditions and are a part of many precious memories for many. However, this year, as we lean into the holiday season, it’s important to focus on the deeper meaning of the season. This can be spending time on religious practices, family, or fostering a spirit of giving.
Humanitarian clubs at Campolindo such as Leo Club, offer opportunities for students to give back to the community. Leo Club member, Kayla Moon, believes that “presents are part of the Christmas spirit” and is helping Leo Club provide underprivileged children with gifts in the holiday spirit of giving.
As we enter the holidays it’s time we evaluate what it means to celebrate Christmas. Yes, gifts and giving are significant to Christmas celebrations, but they should not be the sole focus. The true magic of the season lies in the gift of each other and the moments we share with friends and family that define the holiday spirit.
