So, I’m writing an interactive story (set in the US) that includes a Christmas dinner scene. So I wanted to know: what was served at your Christmas dinner? Was the main attraction turkey, ham, or prime rrib? Something else? What sides were typically served? The more decadent, the better, of course ;). Were the sides the same as Thanksgiving dinner? Different?
I’m asking because, for one reason or other, we never really had many traditional Christmas dinners in my family.
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I’ve had Christmas with a few families over the years. A common staple is Turkey or Ham. Families also have their own traditions: one family I got to have Christmas with has Shepard/Cottage Pie as an entrée. As for sides, Mash potatoes, Stuffing, Often corn or another simple veggie. In smaller families, Christmas dinner might be a smaller meal but have a larger emphasis on fresh baked Christmas cookies/cake for dessert. A larger family will try to add more entrees and sides.
TLDR: as long as you throw a line in about “this family’s tradition,” that should be enough of a handwave for most people to get to the good parts.
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Cosigning demimonde’s answer and adding:
- If the Christmas dinner is going to be an extended family gathering, there are likely to be appetizers set out a few hours ahead of time. These appetizers are usually finger foods, things like veggie trays, charcuterie, chips and dip, and cookies/other small desserts. Mixed drinks, eggnog, and soft drinks are all likely to be on offer throughout the day
- Homemade cookies iced by the family ahead of time are another common tradition, as are candy dishes if dinner is hosted at the grandparents’ house
- Some families will open stockings or a single present on Christmas eve, which could be a good opportunity for more candy/food
- Characters who are married (or have divorced parents) may get two Christmas dinners as they travel between families
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Candied yams, with melted marshmallows and whipped cream on top. A great side and an even better dessert.
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