As the holiday season unfolds, fans of the quirky celebration known as Festivus are gearing up for this non-traditional holiday made popular by the TV show Seinfeld. With December 23rd marked as the official day for airing grievances, participants in various cities around the U.S. are embracing the spirit by voicing their complaints about everything from local sports teams to personal disappointments. The origins of Festivus trace back to a 1966 episode of Seinfeld, showcasing a ‘holiday for the rest of us’ that encourages people to express their frustrations in a humorous light.
In Pittsburgh, local sports commentator Jason Mackey reflects on the city’s turbulent sports year, describing the grievances faced by fans of the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. Mackey stated, ‘It’s been a tough year for Pittsburgh sports; the Steelers struggled to find their rhythm while the Pirates faced ridicule in their rebuilding efforts. It’s a perfect day to air our grievances as a way to embrace the dysfunction.’
Portlanders have also joined in the mid-winter ritual by sharing their grievances. A survey conducted by local news outlets found that many residents have taken to social media to express frustrations about rising living costs, traffic congestion, and the state of local politics. One Portlander quipped, ‘This isn’t just a day to complain, it’s our way of venting in a lighthearted manner!’
In addition to airing grievances, Festivus festivities often include the iconic aluminum pole and feats of strength, demonstrating the unique tradition that enables individuals to connect through shared discontent.
