The Dean's List: Top Five Differences Between an American and British Christmas

Americans and Brits may have a long, interconnected history, but their cultural traditions can often vary in significant ways. Sandeep Mazumder, PhD, the William E. Crenshaw Endowed Dean of the Hankamer School of Business, shares his top five differences between an American and British Christmas. 

5. Turkey Dinner

In the United States, ham is often the protein of choice for the Christmas meal, although some do opt for turkey. But in the United Kingdom, turkey is almost always the star of the meal on Christmas Day. 

4. Boxing Day

During the years I lived in the UK, the day after Christmas—known as Boxing Day—was considered the main retail sales day of the calendar year. I believe the UK now has Black Friday, too, but that wasn’t the case when I lived in the country. 

3. Christmas Address

When I lived in the UK, we would have an annual Christmas address from the Queen that was broadcast around the nation. The tradition is still alive and well, but with the King now instead of the late Queen.  

2. Christmas Pudding 

For dessert at a British Christmas dinner, a special pudding is served which is essentially a very rich fruit cake. A common accompaniment is heavy cream. Frequently, the Christmas pudding is doused in brandy and flambeed before serving. It makes for quite the visual spectacle when the lights are turned off! 

1. Christmas Crackers

Typically, at a British Christmas dinner, two people pull a Christmas cracker that pops after opening. Usually inside are paper Christmas hats and a fun toy of some sort.