It all began during my parents’ divorce when my sisters and I would alternate our holiday celebrations each year. When it was my mom’s turn, we’d attend Christmas Eve mass with our grandparents, dressed in festive red and black gowns. After mass, we’d enjoy appetizers and cookies made by Grandma while listening to carols and opening our stockings, then slip into matching pajamas before heading to bed. However, when we spent Christmas with my dad, there was no church and no fancy dresses. He wasn’t much of a cook, so we’d order Chinese food and enjoy it in front of the TV while watching holiday movies. We absolutely loved that experience.
Now that we’ve all grown up, our Christmas traditions have evolved. I have a family of my own, and since Christmas Day is usually spent visiting extended family, I prefer to keep Christmas Eve a cozy affair with just my husband, our two kids, and me. We’re still in the early stages of establishing our own traditions.
My husband and I have incorporated our favorite childhood customs into our Christmas Eves with our children. We let the kids open their stockings, listen to Christmas music, and watch festive movies. And of course, we always order Chinese food.
Is Chinese Food a Christmas Tradition?
Chinese food on Christmas isn’t just a trend; it’s a beloved institution. You might have seen portrayals of Jewish American families, especially those in New York, dining at Chinese restaurants on Christmas. Perhaps it was that humorous scene in A Christmas Story, where Ralphie’s family resorts to Peking duck after their turkey dinner is ruined, that solidified the association of Chinese food with the holiday for you. The practice actually has deep historical and sociological roots.
At the turn of the 20th century, Jewish and Chinese immigrants were the most significant non-Christian groups in New York, where this tradition likely originated. Chinese restaurants sprang up near Jewish communities, leading to a unique holiday dining experience. As early as 1899, references indicate that Jewish people frequently enjoyed lunch at Chinese establishments on Sundays, when Christian families flocked to other venues after church. So, dining on Chinese cuisine on Christmas evolved not only from the scarcity of open restaurants but also as a way to foster community and celebrate secularly during a time when many felt excluded from traditional holiday festivities.
Where to Find Chinese Food on Christmas?
If you’re thinking about embracing a Chinese feast for Christmas, you’ll find plenty of options. Many Chinese restaurants remain open on December 25th, and a quick search on Google Maps will help you locate one in your area.
Why Choose Chinese Food for Christmas?
For many American Jews, part of the allure is that while not all Chinese dishes are kosher, they tend to be safer compared to other immigrant cuisines. Jewish dietary laws prohibit mixing milk and meat, which is common in Italian and Mexican cooking. In contrast, most Chinese food is virtually free of dairy.
However, the Jewish custom of enjoying Chinese food and a movie on Christmas is not the only reason why it has become a busy day for Chinese restaurants across the country. Many people, like myself, opt for takeout instead of cooking, preferring to celebrate rather than spend hours slaving in the kitchen. There’s something about a generous serving of General Tso’s chicken, still in its takeout box, that truly captures the Christmas spirit.
A year and a half ago, I moved to a new neighborhood, leaving behind my favorite Chinese restaurant. My quest for a replacement led to a series of disappointments, from missing duck sauce to subpar lo mein. I had resigned myself to the idea of cooking this year—until I spotted a little Chinese restaurant tucked away in a strip mall that I had never noticed before. It wasn’t new, but it was new to me. After trying it out, I was thrilled to discover it lived up to my hopes.
The Tradition Lives On!
‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house, not a creature was stirring… except for me, making my way to the fridge for leftover egg rolls while I frantically wrap gifts I put off until the last moment.
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Summary:
Chinese food on Christmas is more than just a fun idea; it’s a cherished tradition rooted in history and community. As families evolve, so do their celebrations, and many find joy in ordering takeout instead of cooking. Whether it’s a Jewish custom or simply a matter of convenience, this festive tradition continues to thrive, ensuring that every Christmas remains deliciously memorable.