December is officially here, and if you’re anything like most Americans, you’ve got a mental checklist of holiday traditions you’re hoping to squeeze in between work, carpool, and everything else on your plate. But let’s be real—if you manage to check off everything on this list, you might just be a holiday overachiever (or completely exhausted by January 1st).

A recent YouGov poll surveyed over 1,000 Americans about their December plans, and the results paint a picture of what most of us consider “must-dos” versus “maybe if I have time” activities. Let’s dive in and see how many you’re planning to tackle!

The Top December Traditions

Listen to Holiday Music (75%)
Here at Froggy 102.7, we know you can’t escape the holiday tunes—and honestly, why would you want to? Three-quarters of Americans will intentionally crank up the Christmas classics this month. Whether you’re team Mariah or team Bing, we’ve got your soundtrack covered all season long.

Watch a Holiday Movie (72%)
Nothing says “relaxing after the kids are in bed” quite like a cozy Christmas movie marathon. From classics like It’s a Wonderful Life to guilty pleasures like The Holiday, 72% of us will be cueing up our favorites.

Go Look at Lights (70%)
Looking for a family-friendly outing that doesn’t break the bank? Seventy percent of Americans plan to check out holiday light displays this month. In our area, don’t miss the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds Holiday Lights—it’s become a beloved local tradition!

Exchange Presents (70%)
Gift-giving remains at the heart of the season, with 70% planning to exchange presents. Whether you’re a “start shopping in October” type or a “last-minute scrambler,” you’re in good company.

Drink Hot Chocolate (67%)
When the Indiana winter weather hits, there’s nothing better than warming up with a mug of hot cocoa. Bonus points if you add marshmallows while helping the kids with homework!

The “If I Have Time” Activities

As we move down the list, things get a bit more ambitious:

• Decorate a tree (66%)—Already done? You’re ahead of the game!
• Put up lights (56%)—The eternal debate: hire someone or DIY?
• Bake cookies (48%)—Pro tip: Let the kids decorate them. Lower expectations = more fun.
• Attend a holiday party (45%)—Between work parties and PTA gatherings, you might hit this one whether you planned to or not.
• Donate to charity (43%)—Consider supporting local organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County

The Holiday Overachievers

Only the truly dedicated (or those with extra time and energy we can only dream about) will tackle these:

• Send holiday cards (41%)—Remember when we all did this? Kudos if you’re keeping the tradition alive.
• Wear holiday pajamas (37%)—Matching family PJs make for great Instagram content, at least.
• Attend a religious service (37%)
• Build a snowman (21%)—Weather permitting!
• Build a gingerbread house (17%)—Ambitious! May we suggest buying a pre-made kit?
• Make a snow angel (16%)—Because adulting doesn’t mean you can’t play in the snow!

So, How Many Will YOU Do?

Here’s the thing: there’s no “right” number of December traditions to tackle. Whether you’re going all-out with every activity on this list or simply enjoying some holiday music during your commute (hello, Froggy 102.7 listeners!), what matters is making memories with the people you love.

This December, give yourself permission to do what brings you joy—and skip what adds stress. After all, the best holiday tradition might just be cutting yourself some slack.

What are YOUR must-do December activities? Share with us on Froggy 102.7’s Facebook page—we’d love to hear what makes the season special for you and your family!

Source: YouGov Survey