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Last Updated on December 15, 2024 by Adam
Christmas in the 1980s was a magical time full of nostalgia, excitement, and new traditions. Back then, technology wasn’t as dominant, and holiday celebrations were all about family time, creative gifts, and classic fun.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore 20 ways Christmas in the ‘80s was totally different from today.
No Smartphones to Capture Every Moment
In the 80s, we didn’t have smartphones to snap photos of every Christmas moment. Instead, families used film cameras or disposable cameras.
That meant waiting for photos to be developed, adding an element of surprise to the experience. It wasn’t about capturing everything, but cherishing what you could!
The Magic of VHS Tapes
Christmas specials were a huge deal in the 80s, and many families watched them on VHS tapes. Shows like A Charlie Brown Christmas and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer would be recorded off TV, and you could watch them over and over again.
It was all about gathering around the TV for family movie nights.
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No Online Shopping—All About the Mall
The 80s were prime shopping mall days. Christmas shopping meant hitting the crowded stores, feeling the excitement of walking around to pick out gifts, and maybe even catching a glimpse of Santa.
Online shopping wasn’t even a thing, so the mall experience was key to the season.
Record Players and Christmas Albums
Instead of streaming holiday music on playlists, families in the 80s rocked around the Christmas tree with vinyl records. Classic albums from artists like Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, and the Jackson 5 filled the air with holiday cheer.
There’s nothing quite like the sound of a crackling record to set the mood!
Traditional Christmas Cards
In the 80s, sending and receiving Christmas cards was a big deal. Families would carefully select or make cards and send them to loved ones, complete with a personal note or family update.
No social media posts—just heartfelt messages shared through the mail.
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No Streaming Services—Cable Was King
The Christmas specials that everyone talked about were broadcasted on TV through cable channels like ABC, NBC, and CBS. There was no binge-watching or streaming—if you missed a special, you had to wait until next year.
It created a sense of anticipation and made those airings even more special.
Handmade Gifts Were a Staple
In the 80s, many families gave homemade gifts. Whether it was a knitted scarf, a hand-painted ornament, or a batch of cookies, it was all about giving something heartfelt.
People took time to craft their gifts, and that personal touch made them even more memorable.
Santa Came in Person at the Mall
There was something magical about visiting Santa at the mall in the 80s. Kids would stand in line, excited to sit on Santa’s lap, whisper their wishes, and get their photo taken.
The experience was an integral part of the holiday season, and the anticipation leading up to it was palpable.
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The Best Christmas Commercials
The 80s were filled with iconic Christmas commercials. From the Coca-Cola trucks to the McDonald’s holiday ads, these commercials were eagerly anticipated.
People would gather around the TV not just for shows but to see which heartwarming or humorous ads would air next.
Classic Christmas Movies Were on VHS
Classic films like Home Alone, A Christmas Story, and Scrooged were rented on VHS tapes. You’d go to the local video store to pick up your favorites for a family movie night.
Those films were part of the tradition, and nothing was better than watching them in the comfort of your own home.
Christmas Lights Everywhere
Decorating with Christmas lights was a big deal in the 80s. People went all out, covering their homes and yards with strings of colorful lights.
It wasn’t just about the house—it was about the whole neighborhood lighting up with holiday cheer. It made for a magical drive around town.
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The Christmas Parade Was the Highlight
Instead of watching parades on TV, many families in the 80s would bundle up to attend local Christmas parades. It was a chance to see festive floats, marching bands, and even Santa himself.
The energy of the crowd and the holiday spirit were palpable in the air.
Christmas Wrapping Paper Was Full of Flair
In the 80s, gift wrapping was all about loud, colorful paper with bold prints and festive patterns. No minimalist wrapping here—every gift was an explosion of Christmas cheer, tied up with thick ribbons and big bows.
It made unwrapping presents even more exciting!
Toys Were the Star of Christmas Morning
The 80s were a golden age for toys, and Christmas morning was all about the surprise of new gadgets and playthings. From Cabbage Patch Kids to action figures like He-Man and Barbie, kids eagerly awaited the big gift reveal.
There was no “smart” toys—just pure, imaginative play.
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More Focus on Family Time
In the 80s, there were fewer distractions—no constant texting or social media updates. Families gathered together and spent time face-to-face, whether it was playing board games, watching Christmas movies, or just chatting.
The focus was on being present and connecting with loved ones.
No Elf on the Shelf—Santa Was the Star
Unlike today, there was no Elf on the Shelf keeping an eye on children’s behavior. Santa was the main holiday character, with kids writing letters and tracking his progress via the news.
The mystery of how he got around the world in one night was part of the magic.
Christmas at Home, Not on Vacation
In the 80s, taking a family vacation for Christmas was less common. Most families stayed home and celebrated in their own cozy environment.
There was something special about waking up in your own house, seeing the tree, and celebrating Christmas in your own space.
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Simple Holiday Crafts
Back then, crafting holiday decorations was a fun and simple activity. Families would gather around the table to make paper chains, gingerbread houses, and homemade ornaments.
You didn’t need Pinterest or elaborate supplies—just a little creativity and plenty of holiday spirit.
No Black Friday Madness
The shopping craze that is Black Friday wasn’t quite as intense in the 80s. Most holiday shopping was done earlier, and while there were sales, the frenzy of camping out for deals or online shopping didn’t exist.
The focus was more on thoughtful gifts and enjoying the season.
Classic Holiday TV Shows
Watching Christmas-themed TV shows, like The Simpsons Christmas Special or The Muppets Christmas Carol, was a yearly tradition. These specials brought families together and became something to look forward to during the holiday season, adding extra cheer to your TV watching.
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