Why I love Christmas in the 90s!

Hey readers,

The Christmas season has always been a magical time, but ask anyone who experienced Christmas in the 90s, and they'll likely recount tales of an era that exuded a unique and unparalleled charm. 

As we fast-forward to today's festivities, it's impossible not to feel a twinge of nostalgia for the Christmas celebrations that defined the 90s. 

Let's delve into the reasons why Christmas in 90s is often regarded as superior to today's more modern celebrations.

1. Traditional High Street Shopping.

The bustling high streets adorned with twinkling lights and the familiar tunes of carollers Christmas shopping in the 90s was an experience in itself.

 High streets were alive with the spirit of Christmas, bustling with shoppers searching for the perfect gifts in brick-and-mortar stores. 

The tactile joy of browsing through shelves, trying on clothes, and smelling the scents of festive displays created an immersive Christmas atmosphere that's hard to replicate in today's online-dominated shopping landscape.

 2. The Iconic Christmas Adverts.

Who can forget the iconic Christmas adverts that graced our television screens in the 90s?

 These heart-warming and often tear-jerking commercials became an integral part of the Christmas experience. 

From the Coca-Cola truck rolling into town to the tear-inducing Yellow Pages "Fly" ad, these adverts not only marked the beginning of the festive season but also left a lasting imprint on the collective memory of Christmas.

 3. Charming Christmas Markets.

While Christmas markets are still a popular feature of the Christmas season, there's an undeniable charm to the smaller, more intimate markets of the 90s.

Picture cobbled streets lined with quaint stalls selling handmade crafts, roasted chestnuts wafting through the air, and the sound of local choirs singing carols.

 These markets fostered a sense of community and warmth that's sometimes lost in today's larger, more commercialised versions.

4. Circling Toys R Us/Argos catalogue. 

I remember the excitement of circling countless toy treasures in the Argos and Toys "R" Us catalogues. 

With a pen in hand, my imagination soared as I marked my wish list, each circle representing a coveted dream. 

Those glossy pages transformed into portals of possibility, creating anticipation for the magic of Christmas morning. 

In those moments, the simple act of circling was a ritual, a tangible connection to the enchanting world of toys and the unbridled wonder of being a child eagerly awaiting the festive season.

5. Handwritten Christmas cards. 

Before the age of digital communication took over, sending and receiving handwritten Christmas cards was a cherished ritual.

 The effort put into selecting or creating the perfect card, writing a personal message, and posting it to friends and family created a tangible connection that today's digital greetings lack. 

Opening the mailbox to find a stack of festive cards was a joyous experience, adding a personal touch to the Christmas season.

6. TV Specials and Classic Films.

The 90s were marked by timeless Christmas television specials and classic films that families looked forward to each year.

 Whether it was eagerly awaiting the Doctor Who Christmas special or gathering to watch beloved films like "Home Alone" or "The Snowman," these traditions created a shared cultural experience that brought people together in the spirit of joy and laughter.

 7. Homemade Christmas Puddings and Treats.

Christmas baking was a cherished tradition in 90s households. Families would come together to bake mince pies, Christmas puddings, and other festive treats. 

The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the kitchen created an aromatic ambiance that signalled the arrival of the Christmas season. 

Today's convenience-driven culture may have led to a decline in the art of homemade Christmas baking.

 8. Festive Radio and Top of the Pops.

Before the age of streaming services, the radio played a central role in spreading festive cheer. 

Tuning in to hear the Christmas Top 40 on BBC Radio 1 or enjoying a special Christmas edition of Top of the Pops added a musical soundtrack to the season. 

Today's personalised playlists lack the communal experience of eagerly waiting to discover the year's top Christmas hits.

 9. Cosy Pubs and Local Gatherings.

The local pub was a quintessential part of Christmas in 90s UK. 

Whether it was enjoying a festive pint with friends or participating in a local pub quiz, the pub was a hub of community spirit. 

The warmth of a roaring fire, the clinking of glasses, and the camaraderie of neighbours created a unique atmosphere that's sometimes lost in today's fast-paced, digital socialising.

In conclusion, while contemporary Christmas celebrations have their own merits, there's an undeniable allure to the nostalgic charm of the 90s. 

The unique blend of traditional festivities, community spirit, and simple pleasures created a Christmas season that holds a special place in the hearts of those who experienced it. 

So, this Christmas, consider infusing a bit of 90s magic into your celebrations you might just rediscover the true spirit of the Christmas. 

Cheers for reading X