The Origins of Festivus

The concept of Festivus started with “Seinfeld” writer Dan O’Keefe, who wrote about a tradition his father, Daniel O’Keefe Sr., came up with in the 1960s. The original Festivus was invented to have a holiday that was free of the religious overtones and commercialism that he believed plagued other holidays during the holiday season.

But it was one “Seinfeld” episode, titled “The Strike,” that really kicked Festivus into the mainstream. Frank Costanza (George Costanza’s dad), played by Jerry Stiller, describes the holiday as a reaction to the commercialism surrounding Christmas. Its portrayal of the customs of Festivus is hilarious and has, in fact, broken free of its TV origins and become a cultural touchstone for many.

On the show, Festivus was a tradition Frank Costanza invented so he wouldn’t have to buy gifts for his kids. It is this humorous take on the practices of Festivus that helped cement it in television lore.

Festivus Traditions

Festivus features a number of unique traditions that make it a memorable holiday in its own right. Here are a few key components:

The Aluminum Pole:
Rather than a Christmas tree, Festivus is celebrated with an undecorated aluminum pole. This simple ornament represents the rejection of the commercialization of the Christmas season.

Airing of Grievances:
One of the funniest parts of Festivus is the “Airing of Grievances.” Cue Festivus pole: for Festivus, participants are to gather around the pole and air their grievances about friends, family, or the rest of the world. It’s a chance to air grievances and personal beefs, often laughing and bonding over shared experiences.

Feats of Strength:
The festivities end with what is called the “Feats of Strength,” in which the head of the household challenges a family member to a wrestling match. The playful challenge is a reminder of the importance of having a strong family support system. The holiday isn’t over until the head of the household is tackled to the ground.

Things for Your Festivus Dinner:
Although there isn’t much description in the show about the Feast of the Festivus, it usually includes simple foods that are no-frills and do not have to be made with care. The meal is usually simple, underscoring the holiday’s themes of simplicity and anti-commercialism.

The Significance of Festivus

At its heart, Festivus is an antidote to the materialism and stress that many people feel during the holiday season and reminds us to lean into authenticity, laughter, and time spent with friends and family. The holiday has struck a chord among those who feel burdened by the demands of traditional holiday observance, providing a way to commemorate the occasion more lightly and less formally.

On December 23rd, about when all-night TV marathons begin, many will once again gather around the aluminum pole to celebrate the joy and laughter that is Festivus. Whether you’re a die-hard “Seinfeld” fan or just want a fun way to celebrate, Festivus provides a new twist on holiday cheer.

Happy Festivus, Hopkinton!

Festivus! The Book
This book completes Festivus’ transformation from borderline child endangerment to a beloved pop-cultural footnote of the late 1990s.
—Seinfeld Writer Dan O’Keefe