Author: Jen Hatmaker

You’re Not Broken if You Hate the Holidays

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

Here’s the real, honest truth: Not everyone is ho-ho-ho-ing their way through December. If the sight of twinkling lights and endless Santa mugs makes you want to scream into the void, you’re not alone — and there’s definitely nothing wrong with you. You’re not broken.

Some people thrive in the holiday season. They’re the first ones to belt out Mariah Carey in November; their trees are up the day after Halloween; and they somehow, bafflingly, find joy in coordinating family photos where everyone is wearing matching sweaters. If that’s you, listen, we love you. But this one isn’t for you.

This one is for the people who quietly (or loudly) whisper, “I hate the holidays.” Maybe you say it when the first holiday ad interrupts your Hulu binge. Maybe you mutter it under your breath when the office Secret Santa is announced. Or maybe you’re the brave soul who says it out loud: I just cannot get into the holiday season. And you know what? You’re allowed to feel that way.

Why Do I Hate the Holidays?

Let’s unpack this, because nobody just hates the holidays for sport. If you find yourself dreading the season, there’s probably a reason (or five):

  • Trauma and Grief: The holidays have a way of shining a neon light on everything we’ve lost or never had. If you’re grieving someone you loved or mourning the family you wish you had, December can feel like an emotional gut punch.
  • Loneliness: Maybe you’re estranged from family, you’re single, or you’re far from friends. The endless commercials of big, joyful family gatherings can make an empty seat at your table feel even bigger.
  • Pressure to Perform: The holidays come with an exhausting to-do list. You’re supposed to buy the perfect gifts, decorate like it’s a Pinterest board, and attend every party with a giant smile plastered on your face. It’s overwhelming.
  • Financial Stress: Let’s be honest. Holiday magic isn’t cheap. When you’re scraping together funds just to get by, the expectation to spend and splurge is isolating.
  • Toxic Relationships: For some, the holidays mean heading back into environments filled with tension, judgment, or unresolved pain. Nothing like a family dinner to stir up decades of resentment, am I right?!

If any of this resonates with you, I want you to hear me loud and clear: You’re not crazy, and you’re not broken. If you don’t enjoy the holidays in this season of your life, it’s not because there’s something wrong with you — it’s because you’re a human person with lived experiences. Of course you’re not thrilled to deck the halls when the holidays feel like a minefield.

Sitting in the Hard Stuff

So, what now? How do we navigate a season that makes us want to crawl under a blanket until February? First, let’s stop trying to force it. You don’t have to manufacture holiday cheer for other people’s comfort. If you’re sad, be sad. If you’re mad, be mad. You’re allowed to feel your feelings without apologizing for them.

Sitting with discomfort is hard, especially when the world around you is blasting holiday music and insisting you should be happy. But allowing yourself to feel what you feel — without judgment — is part of the healing process. If you’ve been carrying around the “I hate the holidays” secret for years, it might be time to ask yourself why. What hurts? What needs care? You can’t fix something until you’re willing to look at it, friend.

And for heaven’s sake, give yourself some grace. Maybe you’re not up for a full Christmas extravaganza, but can you light a candle? Wrap up in a soft blanket? Watch a movie that doesn’t involve Santa Claus? The season doesn’t have to look like a Hallmark commercial. It can look like whatever your soul needs it to.

Making the Holidays Work for You

If you hate the holiday season, it’s okay to redefine it. This doesn’t have to be about denying how hard it is — it’s about finding small ways to take care of yourself amidst the noise. Here are a few ideas:

  • Opt Out: You don’t have to attend every party or event. Seriously. You can just…say no. Your emotional well-being is more important than anyone’s hurt feelings about your RSVP.
  • Create New Traditions: Who says the holidays have to look a certain way? Start a tradition that feels good to you, whether it’s volunteering, going on a solo trip, or eating Chinese takeout on Christmas Eve.
  • Connect with Safe People: If you’ve got a person or two who makes you feel seen and loved, lean into that. Call them. Invite them over. Send a text that says, “Hey, I’m struggling right now.” Let yourself be supported.
  • Focus on Tiny Joys: You don’t have to find joy in everything. Can you find one small thing? A good book. A cup of tea. A favorite song. Sometimes the tiniest joys carry us through the heaviest seasons.
  • Let Go of Expectations: You are not required to perform holiday happiness. You don’t have to do the gifts, the decorations, the traditions, or anything else that feels like too much. You get to decide what the season looks like for you.

You’re Not Alone

If you find yourself wondering, Why do I hate holidays? please know that you’re not the only one asking that question. You are not a grinch, and you are not broken. You’re just someone who’s carrying a lot, and that’s okay. You don’t owe anyone a shiny, happy version of yourself this season. You owe yourself care, compassion, and permission to show up as you are.

The holidays are complicated, messy, and sometimes painful. But you don’t have to pretend your way through them. You don’t have to bury your feelings under tinsel and bows. And you don’t have to do this alone.

This season, may you find space to breathe. May you allow yourself to feel without judgment. And may you remember that the holidays don’t define you — you define what they mean to you. You are seen. You are loved. And you are not broken.

25 Best Christmas Movies to Watch to Get You in the Holiday Spirit

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

If you’re anything like me, the holidays can be a blur of managing all the things — house, gifts, stockings, tree, yard, cooking, hosting, gift lists, traditions, wrapping, scheduling. But in the chaos, there’s nothing better than gathering your people (or just yourself, wrapped in a blanket burrito) for a Christmas movie marathon. Need some recs on what to watch next?

I’ve got you covered, From classics to fresh releases, this list is all about finding joy, warmth, and maybe a few happy tears. One of my new favorites? The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie. It’s now available to stream — and it’s proof that even the rowdiest chaos can lead to heartwarming beauty.

So, let’s get into it: 25 of the best Christmas movies to watch this year, broken into four festive categories. Pop some popcorn, pour a cup of hot chocolate, and get ready for all the holiday feels.

Classic Christmas Movies

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) 

George Bailey is a man overwhelmed by life’s burdens who wishes he had never been born. An angel named Clarence shows him what life would have been like without him, revealing how deeply he’s touched others. This powerful story reminds us all about the value of kindness and the impact we have on those around us.

2. White Christmas (1954)

Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, two WWII veterans, team up to become a popular song-and-dance duo. When they meet a pair of singing sisters, they all work together to save a failing Vermont inn during Christmas. With romance, humor, and plenty of iconic musical numbers, this movie is a warm hug of nostalgia.

3. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 & 1994) 

Kris Kringle, a department store Santa, claims to be the real deal, leaving everyone questioning his sanity and identity. As a young girl and her pragmatic mother learn to believe in him, a court case ensues to prove his authenticity. Both versions capture the magic of believing in something bigger than yourself.

4. A Christmas Carol (1984) 

Ebenezer Scrooge is a miserly businessman visited by three ghosts who show him the past, present, and future of his life. These haunting visions lead to his transformation into a kind, generous man. George C. Scott’s performance makes this adaptation a standout among many versions of Dickens’ classic tale.

5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) 

Clark Griswold just wants a perfect Christmas, but everything that can go wrong does. From a squirrel in the Christmas tree to a house so lit up it’s visible from space, chaos reigns supreme. Amid the hilarity, the movie also delivers heartfelt moments about family and perseverance.

FAMILY Christmas Movies

6. Elf (2003) 

Buddy, a human raised by elves, travels to New York City to find his real father. Along the way, his unrelenting cheer clashes with the cynicism of city life, leading to plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy makes this a modern classic.

7. Home Alone (1990) 

Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind when his family flies to Paris for Christmas. He must defend his home from two bumbling burglars using hilariously clever traps. This film is both an action-packed comedy and a reminder of the importance of family.

8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) 

The Grinch, a grumpy outcast, plots to ruin Christmas for the Whos of Whoville by stealing their presents. However, his heart begins to change when he encounters the kindness of little Cindy Lou Who. Although the Jim Carrey’s larger-than-life performance brings this Dr. Seuss tale to life.

9. Klaus (2019) 

Jesper, a spoiled postman, is sent to a remote Arctic town where he meets a mysterious toymaker named Klaus. Together, they inadvertently spark a tradition of gift-giving that transforms the town’s bitter inhabitants. This beautifully animated film offers a touching origin story for Santa Claus.

10. The Polar Express (2004) 

A skeptical boy boards a magical train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the journey, he encounters unforgettable characters and learns the true meaning of believing. The film’s stunning visuals and Tom Hanks’ multi-character performance make it a holiday favorite.

Romantic Christmas Movies

11. Love Actually (2003) 

This ensemble film weaves together the lives of several characters, each navigating love during the holiday season. From a prime minister falling for his staffer to a grieving widower helping his son pursue young love, the stories are heartfelt and messy. The film captures the bittersweet magic of the season.

12. The Holiday (2006)

Iris and Amanda, two women from opposite sides of the world, swap homes for the holidays to escape their troubles. Each finds unexpected romance and a renewed sense of purpose. This charming rom-com is a cozy escape with a touch of holiday magic.

13. A Christmas Prince (2017) 

Aspiring journalist Amber travels to a fictional European kingdom to cover a prince rumored to abdicate the throne. What starts as a professional endeavor turns into a fairy-tale romance. This Netflix hit is filled with charm, cozy vibes, and just the right amount of cheesiness.

14. A Castle for Christmas (2021)

Sophie, a bestselling author, travels to Scotland to escape a scandal and falls in love with a castle—and its cranky duke. As sparks fly, she learns the true meaning of home and love. The Scottish scenery and warm humor make this a must-watch.

15. While You Were Sleeping (1995) 

Lucy, a lonely transit worker, saves her crush from a train accident and is mistaken as his fiancée by his family. As she bonds with them, she unexpectedly falls for his brother. This quirky romantic comedy delivers laughs, love, and the warmest holiday family dynamics.

New Christmas Movies

16. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie (2024) 

Chaos ensues when the Herdman kids, known as the town’s troublemakers, take over the church Christmas pageant. What starts as a disaster transforms into a moving story of redemption and the true meaning of Christmas. This film is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming and I got to sit down and learn about behind-the-scenes with Judy Greer.

17. Christmas by Design (2023) 

A fashion designer returns home for the holidays and finds inspiration—and love—in her small town. As she reconnects with her roots, she creates a magical holiday collection that brings the community together. This feel-good film is brimming with holiday spirit and creativity.

18. Best. Christmas. Ever! (2023) 

Two former friends reignite their rivalry when one’s seemingly perfect Christmas letter sets off a chain of comical misunderstandings. Amid the laughs, they rediscover what truly matters during the season. Brandy and Heather Graham bring charm and humor to this delightful Netflix comedy.

19. The Naughty Nine (2023) 

A group of kids sets out to recover their stolen Christmas gifts in a holiday-themed heist. Their misadventures are filled with laughs, teamwork, and a few surprises along the way. This family-friendly film is perfect for those who love a bit of mischief with their holiday cheer.

20. A Merry Scottish Christmas (2023) 

Estranged siblings reunite in Scotland, where they uncover family secrets and rekindle their bond. With kilts, castles, and festive traditions, this movie is a celebration of love and heritage. It’s a heartwarming story set against a stunning holiday backdrop.

Hallmark Christmas Movies

21. The Christmas Bow (2020) 

Kate, a talented violinist, reconnects with her childhood crush while recovering from an injury. Together, they create a holiday concert that brings their community closer. This sweet story is filled with music, love, and holiday magic.

22. A Timeless Christmas (2020) 

Charles, a man from the early 20th century, time-travels to the present day and discovers modern Christmas traditions. Along the way, he falls for a woman who helps him adapt to his new reality. This film is a romantic journey through time and holiday cheer.

23. Christmas at Pemberley Manor (2018) 

A big-city event planner works to save a small-town holiday festival at a historic estate. Sparks fly with the estate’s owner, and together they find love amid the festive chaos. This Hallmark gem is a nod to Jane Austen with a holiday twist.

24. Two Turtle Doves (2019) 

A grieving woman returns to her hometown for the holidays and embarks on a scavenger hunt left by her late grandmother. Along the way, she finds love and healing in unexpected places. This heartfelt film is a tender exploration of loss and hope.

25. The Mistletoe Inn (2017) 

Kim, an aspiring romance novelist, attends a Christmas writers’ retreat to reignite her creativity. There, she meets a fellow writer who challenges her and captures her heart. This movie is a cozy celebration of love and following your dreams.

There you have it—your holiday movie marathon, perfectly curated and full of warmth, laughs, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re all about the classics or diving into the latest releases, there’s something here to make your season extra bright.

Pop on one of these films tonight, and happy watching, friends. Now, pass the popcorn!

Roasted Fig and Ricotta Tartine with Lemon, Thyme and Honey

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

Tartines are fancy French open-faced sandwiches with ingredients artfully arranged on hearty bread (for Pinterest, I assume), and they deserve a place in our culinary hearts. This Roasted Fig and Ricotta Tartine with Lemon, Thyme and Honey recipe is one of my absolute faves. You can find two more in my Feed These People cookbook.

Once you make this, please, I beg you, take this tartine’s picture like it’s posing at Olan Mills like our moms made us do in the ’80s.

Roasted Fig and Ricotta Tartine with Lemon, Thyme and Honey

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Juice of 1 lemon (zest it first!)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • 8 ounces fresh figs, cut into flat slices that will lay on a piece of bread
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup hazelnuts (or pecans or almonds or cashews), toasted and chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon (remember how I told you?)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
  • Flaky salt
  • 1 small loaf rustic bread (French or sourdough), sliced pretty thick

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. Toss the sliced figs in this goodness, put them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and roast them for 7 to 8 minutes. Remove from the oven.

Increase your oven temp to broil. Slice your bread pretty thick and lay the slices in a single layer directly on your oven rack. Just toast those gorgeous slices until lightly browned. Stay vigilant, home cook! Don’t walk away! This only takes between 1 and 2 minutes.

Spread your dreamy ricotta over each slice. You will obviously be heavy-handed with this, because the only thing better than ricotta is more ricotta. Spoon the roasted figs over the ricotta, then sprinkle with the hazelnuts, lemon zest, thyme, and flaky salt. And why wouldn’t you drizzle it with a little more honey?

Note: Can’t find fresh figs? You can use pitted dates. Or rehydrate dried figs and use those. Google will tell you how!

Serves 4-6

 

Fun Holiday Traditions to Start with Family (& Friends Who Are Family)

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

The magic of the holidays lies in traditions— those little moments of connection that turn into cherished memories. Whether you’re looking to start new holiday traditions or breathe life into existing ones, the following ideas will help you make this season extra special.

From heartwarming activities to laugh-out-loud fun, these traditions for holidays are perfect for your family or the friends who’ve become family.

Here’s some inspo on 20 holiday traditions to start this year:

1. Host a DIY Ornament-Making Party

Gather craft supplies — felt, glitter, glue, and paint — and spend an afternoon creating personalized ornaments. You don’t have to be “crafts-y” to do this either. We recently made mosaic coasters over in Book Club — and, let me tell you, they were so fun and turned out beautifully and hardly a one of us professed to be a DIY gal. Whether it’s creating a snowman from pom-poms or painting wooden stars, this tradition doubles as a creative outlet and a way to deck the halls with memories.

2. Annual Christmas Cookie Bake-Off

Bring everyone into the kitchen for a cookie showdown. Assign roles for bakers, decorators, and judges, and crown a winner with a festive prize. It’s a fun holiday tradition for families that leaves you with treats to enjoy all season. Another way to make this work? Gather your friends for a cookie potluck, where everyone brings their favorite cookie and you vote on your faves.

3. Matching Pajama Movie Night

Invest in cozy, matching pajamas for the whole family (including the dog!) — or your besties — and settle in for a holiday movie marathon. Bonus points for building a blanket fort or bringing out a projector for an at-home theater experience.

4. Letters to Future Selves

Sit down as a family and write letters about your year — what made you laugh, what challenged you, and what you’re hopeful for. Seal them up and save them for next Christmas. This is a favorite holiday tradition because it captures moments that might otherwise fade.

5. Sibling (or Friend) Gift Swap

Take turns drawing names and exchanging meaningful, silly, or even White Elephant gifts. This tradition is one of the best ways to celebrate holidays with family because it encourages thoughtfulness and creativity. Stuck on gift ideas? Check out my Holiday Gift Guide for inspiration that will make everyone smile!

6. Create a Hot Cocoa Bar

Turn a table into a cocoa-lover’s paradise with marshmallows, whipped cream, candy canes, sprinkles, and syrups. This holiday tradition idea works for both small family nights and larger gatherings with friends.

7. Secret Santa Exchange (With a Twist)

Add themes like “homemade gifts” or “something under $20” to keep this tradition affordable and exciting. Reveal gifts over a festive dinner or desserts night, and share laughs as everyone guesses their Secret Santa.

8. Random Acts of Holiday Kindness

Dedicate a day to giving back. Deliver homemade treats to neighbors, pay for someone’s coffee, or surprise a local teacher with a thoughtful gift. Small gestures like these embody the season’s spirit.

9.  Decorate Gingerbread Houses

Stock up on gingerbread kits, frosting, and candy, and see who can build the most elaborate house. Younger kids can make simple cottages, while older family members get competitive with multi-level designs.

10. Make Your Own Family Holiday Playlist

Ask everyone to contribute their favorite songs to a shared playlist. From traditional carols to modern hits, this playlist becomes the soundtrack for cooking, gift-wrapping, and driving to see lights. My girls — Sydney and Remy — always bring in all the best music for our playlist.

11. Polar Express Pajama Ride

Load up the car with cocoa and blankets and drive around to see the most dazzling holiday lights. Wear pajamas for extra fun! Consider voting on the best house or creating a bingo card of light displays.

12. Holiday Scavenger Hunt

Craft a list of seasonal items to find, like snowmen, wreaths, or inflatable Santas, and set out with your family to spot them in your neighborhood. Whoever checks off the most wins a holiday-themed prize.

13. Write a Thankfulness List

Take a few moments during the season to reflect on gratitude. Share your lists around the dinner table or tuck them into stockings to be read later. This tradition brings heartfelt meaning to the holidays.

14. “Snowed In” Game Night

Whether it’s snowing or not, transform a chilly night into a marathon of board games, card games, trivia, and charades. Add prizes, snacks, and a family trophy to make it a tradition your crew won’t want to skip.

15. Tree-Cutting Adventure

Head to a local tree farm and pick out the perfect evergreen. Snap photos, sip cider, and enjoy the outdoors before bringing your tree home to decorate.

16. Holiday Photo Booth

Set up a DIY photo booth with props like Santa hats, elf ears, and funny signs to use all season long. It’s an easy way to capture moments and create keepsakes you can look back on year after year.

17. Christmas Eve Box or Stocking Tradition

Pack a stocking or box with special treats like cozy socks, a book, or holiday snacks. Open them on Christmas Eve for a quiet, intimate way to relax and bond before the big day.

18. Craft a Family Recipe Book

Gather recipes that have been holiday staples and compile them into a keepsake book. Include notes on their origins or memories tied to each dish. This is one of my favorite holiday tradition ideas for preserving family history.

19. Host a “Friendsmas” Dinner

Invite friends over for a potluck-style dinner where everyone brings a holiday dish from their culture or family traditions. Light candles, share stories, and toast to chosen family. Okay, if your friends want the night off from cooking, you can also do what we did one year and order our favorite things from every fast food restaurant near us. I don’t make the rules.

20. A Midnight Dessert Feast

Celebrate the magic of Christmas Eve with a late-night dessert gathering by the tree. Include everyone’s favorite treats — pie, cookies, or even hot cocoa with that extravagant toppings bar. Add festive music or soft holiday lights to make the moment feel even more enchanting.

The Power of Traditions

Starting fun holiday traditions is one of the best ways to celebrate holidays with family. Whether it’s crafting ornaments, sipping cocoa, or singing carols, these moments become the foundation of cherished memories for years to come.

Make this year the one where you start a new favorite holiday tradition — one that brings joy, connection, and a little extra magic to your season.

Advent: What Is It and What It Means to Me

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

Ask any member of my original family and they will tell you: I was the can’t-freaking-wait-until-Christmas kid.

I was all Christmas cheer, zero Grinch. I am not kidding. In my 20s, visiting home for Christmas, I would still wake every single person up on December 25th by 6:00 a.m. — including my own toddlers.

Growing up, my dad would make us wait for gifts until he read the Bethlehem story from the Bible, and listen, I love Baby Jesus, I do, but no man has ever read slower in the history of literacy than my dad, Larry King, slogging his way through Luke 2 at 6:13 a.m. on Christmas morn. Make it stop, Holy Spirit. 

When I was in sixth grade, I literally could not take the anticipation, and one night in mid-December under the cover of darkness, I carefully opened every single present of mine while my parents slept peacefully in their bed, assuming their square firstborn would never break rules (surprise, Larry and Jana! Your own personal Buddy the Elf committed a Christmas crime). I split the tape on one end with a steak knife, slid each box out of the wrapping with the precision of a surgeon, opened the present without messing up the interior tissue paper, and slid it back and re-taped it. Every. Single. Present. 

Christmas letter, circa 1985

 

Unfortunately, it utterly ruined Christmas 1985 because I had nothing to look forward to and had to fake surprise. (I would tell my kids this story every year as a cautionary tale, which never stopped them from snooping once. If they want to ruin their own Christmas, it wasn’t because I didn’t warn them of my errant lawlessness.)

That year, I learned that anticipation is part of what makes the day beautiful. 

I didn’t grow up knowing what Advent meant. I’m not even sure I heard that word until I was an adult. Do not get me wrong: My family was all in on Christmas. In our Baptist church world, we had the Christmas cantata, the handbell choir, the children’s program, the Living Christmas Tree, the Bethlehem drama, O Holy Night by the uncontested soprano soloist, the one who always got the big songs (tip of the hat to Erin Wright!). So we handed all of December programming to Baby Jesus for sure, but it was only later I learned the word “Advent.”

Between definition and synonyms, Advent basically means: anticipating, coming, a new beginning, expecting, preparing, hoping, waiting. In different forms, it is like a child counting down the days until her birthday, the senior wild with readiness for graduation, the bride attending to final details the month before her wedding, the woman measuring life in weeks in her third trimester. Something big and important and wonderful is coming. There are preparations to be made, room to be cleared, hearts to be readied, because this big, important, wonderful thing will be the start of something new, something immensely desired, tremendously awaited for. It is the fulfillment of a great hope. 

With crazy anticipation, the special thing is finally coming. 

Advent starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas (December 1st this year in 2024) and ends on Christmas Eve. The church in Europe began celebrating four weeks of Advent somewhere in the fifth century, and mainline churches in the west use it as the beginning of the liturgical calendar. There are tons of practices and rituals associated with Advent that vary across traditions, denominations, and regions. Without a singular narrative, I’ll tell you what I’ve learned and why Advent means something special to me. 

As clearly demonstrated, anticipation is a very familiar emotion to me. How precious something impending feels dictates the level of excitement leading up to it. No one has to teach us how expectancy feels in our bodies: the giddiness, the hope, the can’t-freaking-waitness of it all. Which, in its origin story, takes us back to Israel all those years ago. Every generation was waiting for Jesus. His birth had been foretold by every family to each young set of ears. Jesus was coming, and he would be special. His arrival meant freedom; not that ancient hearers understood what kind of freedom He would bring, but the anticipation was all the same. 

I have always felt impossibly tender about Jesus’ birth story. I just can’t take it. The young unwed mother, the simple family, the baby born in a stable, the announcement only to shepherds, the outrageous ordinary placement of a king. This is how He came. What could ever be more precious than this? Like my friend Amy told me years ago: “I can’t believe that is how he did it.” 

I’ll be honest, if Jesus was born in the palace and his freedom enacted through positional power, that wouldn’t qualify as good news to me at all. The closer most leaders get to power, the further from the margins they become. Power protects power, power begets power, and power reinforces power. It is hierarchical in nature, vulnerable to corruption, self-protective at best and others-destructive at worst. Governmental power has been the source of suffering and misery for millennia. It is predictable and disappointing, and the greatest news about Jesus’ birth is that it happened in a barn.  

My all-time favorite sermon on Jesus’ birth story was by Charles Spurgeon in 1862: 

“By being in a manger he was declared to be the king of the poor…it is not a Caesar that is born today; he will never trample down our fields with his armies, or slaughter our flocks for his courtiers, he will be the poor man’s friend, the people’s monarch…In thus being laid in a manger, he did, as it were, give an invitation to the most humble to come to him. We might tremble to approach a throne, but we cannot fear to approach a manger. 

Never could there be a being more approachable than Christ. No rough guards pushed poor petitioners away; no array of officious friends were allowed to keep off the importunate widow or the man who clamored that his son might be made whole. The hem of his garment was always trailing where sick folk could reach it, and he himself had a hand always ready to touch the disease, an ear to catch the faintest accents of misery, a soul going forth everywhere in rays of mercy.”

“A soul going forth everywhere in rays of mercy.” This was who Jesus was and this is how He came, and this is why we look forward to the beginning of the story every year. Advent turns our eyes to the most subversive plot twist ever conceived. It is never not magnificent. It never gets old. It never leaves out the humble or excludes the poor. It never shifts into something shinier or fancier, no matter how many watching eyes are on it during this time of year. This story has no nefarious agenda once it reaches a popularity quota. It remains stubbornly anti-establishment and unwaveringly pro-justice. Jesus was, as foretold, good news for the poor, which as it turns out, is all of us. 

The way He came is everything. There was no other way for the story to begin. Everything about Jesus was authentic and true. He didn’t bookend his life with auspicious privileges; he was born in a manger and died on a cross. Jesus was altogether good, exactly who he claimed to be, proved to be, and is to this day. 

Advent remembers the beginning and helps us thrill yet again that this is how He did it. We gently close our eyes to the chaos and frenzy this month has become, and we let our minds wander back to that dark night in Bethlehem, the laboring young mother, the straw under her back, the baby’s arrival to us; Jesus, Lord at thy birth. We approach the manger because all are welcome there.  With adoration, we welcome hope as it enters the story. He came for us.

I invite you to watch my quick five-minute-ish “church” sessions each week on the pillars of Advent. I hope they bring you hope, peace, joy, and love — even amidst any noise, worry, sorrow, chaos we may be feeling.

The Best Lasagna I’ve Ever Made

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

An eye-rolly pet peeve is when websites say “this recipe is super easy” then post a 26-step process that takes half a day and utilizes a mandolin. People, “easy” is taking frozen tater tots and covering them in pre-bagged shredded cheddar.

Henceforth, here is my very best lasagna recipe workshopped dozens of times to perfection, but I will tell you right good and damn now: None of the steps are “hard,” but this is not an “easy” dish. This is for impressing people. This is a labor of love. This is when you need a superstar main dish that will dazzle a huge dinner party. 

Also in a measly effort to make this “easier” (ugh I hate me), I do this in stages over two days to make this less overwhelming, but let the record show I just told you the way to make this simpler is by cooking for two days, so don’t listen to anything I say. 

Here are your main elements:

  1. Meat sauce
  2. Ricotta mixture
  3. Bechamel sauce
  4. Noodles 

I do #1 and #2 the day before, so just in case you want to space this out, I’m going to list the ingredients in two parts. Or you can be an absolute hero and do it all in one day. Also, this makes a GIANT pan of lasagna (or two normal pans) that feeds 15-20 people, and I’ll tell you right now, you better do it. Because the only thing bad about leftover lasagna is zero things. (Or assemble a second pan and freeze it for later because you are a badass.)

One last note: these quantities are flexible and forgiving. I make this without a recipe if that tells you anything. Use however much you want, just remember to taste as you go and you can always add more. 

Day One: Meat Sauce and Ricotta Mixture

  • 1 lb. ground Mild Italian sausage
  • 1 lb. ground Hot Italian sausage
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 green bell peppers, diced
  • 8-12 cloves of garlic, diced (YOLO)
  • 1-2 TBSP crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 TBSP dried Italian seasoning
  • 3 28-oz cans of crushed tomatoes (I like Muir Glen or Cento)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 TBSP salt
  • ½ TBSP pepper 
  • 1 big bunch of basil, chopped 

~

  • 1 32-oz + 1 15-oz container of whole milk ricotta (don’t get that skinny ass kind)
  • 64 oz. mozzarella blocks which you must then shred yourself. I don’t make the rules. 
  • 15 oz grated Parmesan
  • 1/4 cup dried Italian seasoning
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 1 TBSP salt
  • Fresh chopped basil, optional

These two elements are the flavor stars, so don’t be pissed at them for *waves hand around* all these ingredients. 

Let’s do that meat sauce. In a giant pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Remove with a slotted spoon to bowl and drop the heat to low. Into all the yummy drippings, add the onion and green bell pepper and cook down for 6-8 minutes. Push to the side, and on the empty side, add the olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Saute until sizzling and fragrant, about five minutes. Add the crushed tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper. Stir until the oil is incorporated. Add back in the sausage. 

My preference here is to keep the heat on low and simmer for two hours. The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavors get. At the two-hour mark, taste and adjust any seasoning. When you have it like you like it, take it off the heat and stir in the chopped basil. VOILA. Store in the fridge until tomorrow when it will, astonishingly, be even better. Or use immediately if you are being a one-day hero. 

—

Set aside 4 cups of the mozzarella and ½ cup of Parmesan in a Ziploc bag. In a bowl big enough to hold 7.88 pounds of cheese (don’t @ me), combine the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan, the ricotta, Italian seasoning, beaten eggs, and salt. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge until tomorrow. 

Day 2: Bechamel and Noodles

First of all, thank Yesterday You for getting y’all this far. All but one layer is prepped and ready, and your main job today is to assemble and bake. If you are a one-day hero, time to do some stretches and take three Advil. 

  • 10 TBSP butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 gallon whole milk
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne

~

  • 26-30-oz fresh pasta sheets

Exciting news: not only did I just make your lasagna ten times better with fresh pasta (unrivaled), I eliminated the fussy, pain-in-the-ass step of parboiling dried noodles. And guess what, campers: Walmart has the yummiest, cheapest fresh lasagna pasta sheets I found. 

Set your meat sauce and ricotta mix on the counter to take the chill off, and set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Bechamel time: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt your butter then add the flour. Whisk constantly until the flour is fully incorporated, and the mixture is a light sandy color and smooth, about 5-6 minutes. Increase the heat to medium high and slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to smooth out the mixture. 

Once it is smooth, turn the heat to medium low and continue to cook (whisking often) until the flour has softened and is no longer gritty, about 15 minutes or to your desired thickness (I want it kind of like a thick pancake batter). Turn the heat off and add the salt, nutmeg, and cayenne. Taste it! Make sure it is flavored well! I always add a little more of sumthin’. 

ASSEMBLY TIME, AVENGERS! 

In the largest, deepest pan you have, or using two regular 9×13 pans, ladle a cup or two of meat sauce on the bottom. Add one layer of fresh pasta with no gaps. Dollop on some ricotta mixture and spread evenly. Add a layer of meat sauce. Pasta. Ricotta mixture. Add a layer of Bechamel. Pasta. Ricotta mixture. Meat sauce. Pasta. Ricotta Mixture. Bechamel. 

Keep going until you are at the top of your pan. The final layer is the mozzarella/parm you set aside on top of either the meat sauce or Bechamel (whichever one you ended on). Wrap this whole beast with foil, and if you love yourself, lay some foil on the bottom of your oven because this saucy girl gets bubbly and oozy. 

Bake covered for an hour. Take the foil off and bake another 15 minutes until the cheese is browning and bubbling and out of control. With the strength of a thousand farm girls, take this out and let it set for 15 minutes before cutting into it. 

This is objectively delicious and not up for debate. A thousand small details add up: Italian sausage instead of ground beef, hand shredded mozz instead of bagged, blooming all your spices in olive oil, fresh basil, the long simmered sauce, the fresh pasta, the double sauces, the creamy rich Bechamel. Outrageous. 

Wouldn’t this be a delicious Christmas day dinner??

7 Holiday Hosting Tips for a Stress-Free Season

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

Well, here we are again—the holidays. A magical time when we convince ourselves that we can pull off a picture-perfect Christmas AND still have enough energy to stay awake past 9 p.m. But let’s be honest, hosting can quickly turn into a stress tornado. Here’s the good news: It doesn’t have to.

This is your permission slip to ditch the perfection and embrace the possible. Hosting is about creating connection, not chaos. So grab a mug of something warm, and let’s get you set up for a season of joy (and maybe even a little sanity).

1. Prepare Early (But Not Too Early)

Let me save you from a rookie mistake: if you start too early, you’ll convince yourself you have time to “just add one more thing.” Spoiler alert: that thing will break you. Instead, focus on the biggies—menus, guest lists, and whatever holiday magic you’re planning to conjure. Write it all down, and then, for the love of figgy pudding, stop adding.

2. Stick to Easy Food (THAT STILL LOOK IMPRESSIVE)

Listen, no one’s handing out awards for the most homemade appetizers. If the idea of hand-rolling 72 tiny puff pastries sends you spiraling, it’s time to call in reinforcements. Enter Boarderie. These ready-made boards are so gorgeous your guests will think you’ve been moonlighting as a cheesemonger. Or, dust off my cookbook Feed These People for dishes that taste fancy but won’t steal your soul.

Pro tip: Store-bought is fine. Ina Garten would approve. Probably.

3. Outsource What You Can

Hosting is a team sport, my friend. Let your guests bring a dish. Hire someone to deep-clean the bathrooms. Beg your kids to hang lights (promise them cookies; bribery works). The goal isn’t to prove you can do it all; it’s to enjoy the day without melting into a puddle of exhaustion by 7 p.m. Let people help you—it’s okay to say ‘yes’ to this.

4. Clean Strategically

You don’t need to deep-clean the attic or organize your junk drawer (unless you’re planning on hosting Christmas dinner in there). Focus on the rooms people will actually see. A quick vacuum, some clean towels in the bathroom, and a scented candle go a long way. And if all else fails, just throw everything into that one closet no one’s allowed to open. You know the one.

5. Create a Timeline for the Big Day

Timelines aren’t just for Type 3 overachievers—they’re for hosts who want to avoid forgetting the rolls in the oven (again). Jot down key tasks in your phone, like when to start cooking the turkey or when to heat up appetizers. Not because everything needs to be perfect, but because you deserve a little less chaos and a little more champagne.

6. Set the Mood (Without Losing Yours)

Here’s the thing about ambiance: It doesn’t have to cost a fortune or take all day. Dim the overhead lights, light a candle that smells like Christmas morning, and throw on a holiday playlist that isn’t just “Feliz Navidad” on repeat. Your guests won’t remember if you used paper napkins—they’ll remember how your home felt: warm, welcoming, and full of joy.

7. Take a Breath (and Remember Why You’re Doing This)

If it all goes sideways—if the turkey’s dry, the dog eats the pumpkin pie, or you forget the salad entirely—take a breath. Hosting isn’t about perfection. It’s about gathering the people you love and making space for connection. And if you’re celebrating Christmas, it’s about remembering the One who came to bring peace, not Pinterest pressure.

At the end of the day, your guests will remember how they felt, not how perfectly folded your napkins were. So let whatever it is be good and enough, because it totally is.

If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect gifts, don’t worry—I’ve done some heavy lifting for you. Check out my gift guide, and let’s get those shopping lists done, shall we? You’ve got a party to host, after all.

Holiday Anxiety: What It Is & How to Cope With It

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

Ah, the holidays. A time for joy, connection, and—let’s be honest—just a smidge of anxiety. Or maybe more than a smidge. If you’ve ever found yourself stress-crying into a pile of wrapping paper or saying ‘yes’ to one too many cookie exchanges, you’re not alone. Holiday anxiety is real, and it’s no respecter of persons — even for those of us who love the twinkling lights and endless Christmas movies.

Here’s the thing: We’re often sold the idea that the holidays are supposed to be perfect. But what happens when perfection feels impossible, or worse, like a pressure cooker? Let’s talk about what holiday anxiety really is, why so many of us feel it, and how we can cope with grace and a little humor.

What Is Holiday Anxiety?

Holiday anxiety isn’t just the stress of trying to find matching pajamas for the whole family or baking six dozen cookies for the neighborhood exchange. It’s a unique kind of overwhelm, often triggered by high expectations, financial pressures, and disrupted routines.

According to experts, holiday anxiety can look like feeling panicked about social gatherings, dreading family dynamics, or worrying about how to manage it all without collapsing into a puddle of exhaustion. It’s the “holiday hustle” on steroids, and let’s be honest: Nobody was meant to carry that.

Why Do I Get Anxiety on Holidays? What Triggers It?

If you’re wondering why the most wonderful time of the year sometimes feels like the most overwhelming, you’re not alone. Here are a few common triggers:

  • High Expectations: Instagram-worthy trees, perfect gifts, and Pinterest-level parties? No thanks.
  • Financial Pressures: Gift-giving, travel, and endless holiday events can add up fast.
  • Family Dynamics: Let’s just say that Uncle Bob’s political rants aren’t exactly peaceful and bright.
  • Overcommitments: How did we get from “one festive gathering” to “three events in one weekend”?
  • Loneliness: For some, the holidays can highlight what’s missing—a loved one, a relationship, or a sense of belonging.
  • Disrupted Routines: Kids out of school, weird meal schedules, and constant go-go-go. Who even are we in December?

Tips for Coping with Holiday Stress

Here’s the good news: you can manage holiday anxiety without sacrificing the joy of the season. Try these strategies:

  1. Set Boundaries
    It’s okay to say no. To events. To gifts that blow your budget. To that family member who always wants to stay “just one more week.” Boundaries are how you protect your peace.
  2. Make a Budget (and Stick to It)
    Listen, overspending isn’t festive—it’s stressful. With the help of a gift guide, decide what you can afford to spend on gifts, travel, and events, and stick to it. Remember, your presence is more valuable than presents.
  3. Simplify Your Traditions
    Not every tradition needs to be preserved forever. Choose the ones that bring joy and let go of the ones that bring dread. (Looking at you, hand-decorated gingerbread houses.)
  4. Practice Self-Care
    Take a walk, read a book, or sneak away for a few minutes of quiet with a cup of tea. And if you need a little extra help relaxing, FOCL’s premium CBD can be a game-changer. (Use my code JEN20 for a holiday discount here.)
  5. Limit Social Media
    Comparison is the thief of joy—and nothing fuels anxiety like scrolling through perfectly curated holiday feeds. Take a break, and remember: your holiday doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
  6. Communicate Your Needs
    Feeling overwhelmed? Tell someone. Whether it’s asking for help with hosting duties or just venting to a friend, sharing your feelings can lighten the load.
  7. Focus on What Matters Most
    The perfect gift, meal, or décor won’t make or break your holiday. Connection, love, and presence (not presents!) are what really count.

Finding Peace This Holiday Season

If you’re feeling the weight of holiday anxiety, let me remind you of this: You don’t have to carry it all. The magic of the season isn’t in the perfect meal or the most elaborately wrapped gift—it’s in the moments of connection, the quiet joy of being together, and the grace to let go of what doesn’t serve you.

This year, let’s agree to make space for peace. To breathe deeply. To laugh at the chaos (because, y’all, there will be chaos). And to remind ourselves that it’s okay to be human—especially during the holidays.

You’ve got this, friend. Now go light that candle, turn on the twinkle lights, and pour yourself a cup of something warm. Peace on Earth starts here—with you.

Thanksgiving: Enneagram Edition

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

So. We gather Thursday. (With Extra Drama and Side Dishes)

Thanksgiving is upon us, and if you’ve ever wondered how your Enneagram type might sabotage the day, this one’s for you. Whether you’re a compulsive doer, a master avoider, or the chaos enthusiast in the room, here’s what you’ll probably think Thursday as the turkey sizzles and your relatives devolve into their natural habitats. Enneagramateurs, squash. these. thoughts.

Let’s dig in.

Enneagram 1 – The Perfectionist

“I will NOT reload the dishwasher correctly. I will NOT reload the dishwasher correctly…”

But you’re already standing at the sink, aren’t you? Watching plates being stacked in mismatched chaos while Claudia just flings the forks in like a wild animal. Your inner dialogue is screaming, “There’s a SYSTEM, people!” But you are going to let it go, RIGHT? Because this is family, not a dishwasher boot camp. Breathe through it. The pie crust may have a tiny crack, the gravy is slightly lumpy, but you didn’t ask to run Quality Control for this entire meal. (God knows you should.) Repeat after me: “Good enough is good enough. Pass the rolls.”

Enneagram 2 – The Helper

“I will not clear every plate, store all the leftovers, clean the kitchen, and offer to give Uncle Joe a ride home.”

And yet, there you are, standing before the sink with your sleeves rolled up, glaring at the 17 able-bodied people who somehow haven’t even considered scraping their own plates. You tell yourself, “I’m just doing it because it’s easier than asking,” but let’s be real—you’re already thinking about labeling Tupperware for everybody else’s leftovers. This year, maybe just clear half the plates, sit down with a glass of wine, and let the chaos unfold. The love is still there, even if you’re not single-handedly orchestrating this entire operation.

Enneagram 3 – The Achiever

“What even IS this meal plan? Where is the timeline? Do these people understand EFFICIENCY?”


Aunt Mary is telling some long-winded story about her ex-co-worker’s dog-sitter, and you’ve lost all sense of purpose. The mashed potatoes weren’t served on time. The turkey carving took 15 minutes too long. And worst of all? You don’t even have a decent photo for Instagram yet. You could’ve spent this time optimizing your entire meal strategy (and possibly your career trajectory), but instead, you’re here listening to Cousin Bob talk about his fantasy football league. Keep it together, champ. A perfectly posed dessert shot is still on the horizon.

Enneagram 4 – The Individualist

“No one here understands me. Or seasoning.”


Thanksgiving reminds you, once again, that you are not like these people. The stuffing tastes like wet cardboard. The cranberry sauce is store-bought. And don’t even get you started on the folding chairs—where’s the ambiance? You retreat to your mind palace where the playlist is hauntingly beautiful, Adele’s album is playing on repeat, and the turkey is carved into perfect artisanal portions. Pro tip: Find the candles. Light them. Elevate the room’s mood yourself. It’s the closest you’ll get to being seen.

Enneagram 5 – The Investigator

“Why are they all talking at once? Who thought this group activity was a good idea? And NO, I will NOT say what I’m thankful for.”


You’ve maxed out your small talk quota before the appetizers even hit the table, and now Uncle Gary is angling for a group gratitude circle. Hard pass. You’re silently calculating how long you have to endure this social minefield before you can Irish goodbye straight to your Netflix queue. Quick survival tip: Pick a seat near the exit and bring a mystery novel to look busy. If anyone notices, just say it’s about the origins of the turkey industry.

Enneagram 6 – The Loyalist

“Who’s going to ruin this day first? Is it Michael? It’s Michael.”


You’ve already run 47 worst-case scenarios in your head. There won’t be enough stuffing. Grandma might cry if Brad criticizes her pie crust again. Someone definitely brought up politics during appetizers, and now you’re just waiting for the implosion. But here’s the thing: You’ve survived every single chaotic Thanksgiving before this one. Take a breath, sip the cider, and realize that even if everything does fall apart, there’s still pie.

Enneagram 7 – The Enthusiast

“This is the BEST THANKSGIVING EVER! Unless everyone else is having more fun, which is completely possible.”


Your playlist is perfectly curated. You’ve organized a Turkey Bingo game. You’ve planned a post-dinner family charades showdown. And yet, deep down, you’re wondering: What if this isn’t actually the most fun Thanksgiving in the world? What if the neighbors are doing something cooler? Focus on your people, Enthusiast. You’re the energy this group needs, and your turkey hat kills every time. Keep up the chaos.

Enneagram 8 – The Challenger

“I WILL keep my mouth shut. I WILL not comment on Michael’s weird political t-shirt… until he brings it up.”


There’s an internal battle brewing: Stay silent, or start a full-blown dinner table debate. The pie hasn’t even been cut yet, and you’re already mentally drafting rebuttals for any and all incendiary comments. But here’s a thought: What if you didn’t? What if you just grabbed another crescent roll and redirected the conversation toward Cousin Sue’s adorable toddler? Less stress, more carbs. Win-win.

Enneagram 9 – The Peacemaker

“This is fine. Everything’s fine. I am managing this with soothing tones and an aggressive seating chart.”


You’ve strategically placed the talkers far away from the antagonizers. You’ve created a no-politics zone by sheer force of will. Your goal is to engineer peace in a way that no one even notices. But here’s the thing: It’s okay if things get a little messy. You don’t have to be the emotional glue holding everyone together. Sit back, enjoy the food, and let the drama happen—chances are, it’ll all blow over by dessert anyway.

Holidays are so relaxing, aren’t they?  Everyone behave, and pass the stuffing!

 

Enneagram Gift Guide

You know what’s also relaxing? Shopping. Yes, especially holiday shopping. (Said NO ONE, ever. Except maybe our Type 7s who can even make long lines a party… maybe.)

Let’s get real: In addition to being time-consuming, gift shopping is like trying to crack the code to each person’s soul. 

This year, I’ve done the hard work (and a little psychoanalyzing) to curate a list of perfect, personality-matched gifts for each Enneagram type on your list. Because what’s better than handing someone a gift that screams “I get you!”?

Get ready to win “Best Gift-Giver Ever.”

SHOP MY ENNEAGRAM GIFT GUIDE

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Movie Review + Awkward Family Christmas Photos

Posted on by Jen Hatmaker

Let me confess: I love an awkward family Christmas photo.

You know the kind…

The ones where someone’s blinking; some family member is halfway cut out of the frame; there could be a cat involved; at least one kid is pouting or pulling some kind of face; and if you’re lucky, there’s a truly regrettable sweater involved. These photos are a time capsule of imperfection, and honestly, they are my favorite holiday laugh.

This year, I dug into the archives to unearth a gem: one of my family’s awkward Christmas photos featuring my five kids. Three of them aren’t even looking at the camera — intentionally, mind you — there is some “inappropriate” boy humor when it comes to two ornaments; and it’s just the kind of chaotic beauty that perfectly sums up the holidays. (You can see it below. You’re welcome.)

And it’s also why I am obsessed with The Best Christmas Pageant Ever movie. Because nothing captures the hilarity, heart, and holy mess of the holidays quite like this story.

‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ Plot

Adapted from Barbara Robinson’s classic 1971 book, this movie is a love letter to every kid who ever wore a wonky angel costume and every mom who cried tears of joy when it didn’t all fall apart.

At the center of the story are the Herdmans — six scrappy siblings with zero filter, zero experience with church, and zero interest in following the rules. Naturally, they take over the annual Christmas pageant, much to the horror of the town. What unfolds is a chaotic, hilarious, and deeply moving look at grace, kindness, and how sometimes the most unexpected people end up teaching us the biggest lessons.

It’s basically like looking at one of those awkward family photos — you start out laughing, and then, by the end, you’re wiping away a tear.

‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ Movie Review

Y’all, this movie is everything I hoped it would be. It’s funny, it’s heartfelt, and it beautifully captures the spirit of the original book. The cast is phenomenal (more on Judy Greer in a minute), and the production strikes the perfect balance between nostalgia and modern charm.

What I loved most, though, is how relatable it feels. The Herdmans are a little wild and a lot messy, but aren’t we all? Whether you’re the kid holding the baby Jesus doll upside down or the mom praying the sheep costumes hold up for one more scene, this story will resonate with you.

It’s a reminder that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes, the magic is in the mess. And sometimes, that mess is immortalized in a Christmas photo you’ll laugh at for decades.

Inside ‘The Best Christmas Pageant Ever’ with Judy Greer

Now, let’s talk about Judy Greer, who plays the mom in this movie and is as delightful in real life as she is on-screen. If you caught our recent For The Love podcast episode together (if not, listen here), you already know she’s a national treasure.

Judy told me that filming this movie felt like stepping into a real-life Christmas pageant, complete with all the hilarity and heart that comes with it. She nailed the role of the overwhelmed-but-determined mom trying to hold everything together—a vibe I think we all recognize, especially if you’ve ever tried to orchestrate a family photo where everyone looks happy.

Judy also shared some behind-the-scenes moments, including what it was like to film the movie in wintry Winnipeg with a cast full of kids on set. She also said what’s so beautiful about the story is that it’s about unity, compassion, and empathy. And it’s about being welcoming.

Judy Greer as Grace, Sebastian Billingsley-Rodriguez as Charlie, Molly Wright as Beth, and Pete Holmes as Bob in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Photo Credit: Allen Fraser

 

The Charm of Awkward Family Christmas Photos

Let’s be honest: Perfect Christmas photos are overrated. The awkward ones? They’re where the real stories live.

But here’s the thing: These photos aren’t just funny, they’re a snapshot of what the holidays are really about. They’re messy, chaotic, and completely beautiful in their imperfection. Just like The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, they remind us that what makes the holidays special isn’t how perfect they look but how they make us feel.

If you’re looking for a holiday movie that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even reflect on your own awkward family photos, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is it. It’s a celebration of the mess, the magic, and the meaning of Christmas—all rolled into one.

So gather your crew, put on those matching pajamas (or don’t, no judgment), and enjoy this film together. And if you happen to capture an awkward photo along the way, embrace it. Years from now, that’s the one you’ll cherish most.

Happy watching, friends (you can see a sneak preview here). And remember: it’s not about the perfect picture—it’s about the people in it.