There’s something magical about Christmas in Lubbock, and by magical, I mean a mix of twinkling lights, dirty snowmen (if we even get any snow), and at like 14 families arguing over who hid the ranch dressing. Every family has their little traditions. Some of them are sweet, and some of them are flat-out bizarre and utterly impossible to explain to anyone who isn’t from around here.

This morning on Lubbock’s #1 morning show, The RockShow, we asked listeners to submit some of their more strange family traditions, and boy did they deliver. You guys are weird, and we love you for it.

Here are just a few of the Christmas traditions Lubbock families swear by, even though outsiders would stare at us like we just microwaved a banana peel for warmth.

Reading Something Wildly Specific on Christmas EvePhoto by Sincerely Media on Unsplash

Most families read The Night Before Christmas. 

Sam told us that his family gathers in the living room on Christmas Eve—fire roaring, tree twinkling—and reads “The Cremation of Sam McGee.” The whole poem. Out loud. Every year.

They moved from Alaska to California (Sam now works in Lubbock), and apparently, nothing says “Happy Birthday, Jesus” like a poem about freezing to death. And honestly? Respect. (It’s actually one of my favorite poems!)

Read More: Why Lubbock Residents Love Chickies Tasty Treats’ Hot Chocolate

The “We Don’t Celebrate Christmas” ChristmasPhoto by Dieter K on Unsplash

One listener, Al, shared that his dad believed the Bible said Jesus didn’t want anyone celebrating birthdays—including His own.

So his family literally didn’t celebrate Christmas.

…but also still exchanged birthday gifts.

Listen. Lubbock theology is its own genre.

The Anti-Lutefisk Pledge of AllegiancePhoto by The New York Public Library on Unsplash

One of our listeners (who actually lives up in Minnesota, but listens on the KFMX App), Bjorn, said his family doesn’t really do lutefisk for the holidays and even felt the need to clarify:

“I tell ya one thing our family DOESN’T do… lutefisk. Friggin’ crime against humanity!”

No one asked, Bjorn. But we’re glad you’re safe.

Move to Lubbock. Nobody even knows what Lutefisk is here.

Trying to Invent New Traditions on the SpotPhoto by Alessandro Bianchi on Unsplash

Some Lubbock families try to spice things up. Listener John announced:

“How about a new one? CHRISTMAS KARAOKE!”

Yeah, John, nothing brings the family closer than dad’s rendition of “All I Want For Christmas is You” off-key and majorly drunk. 10/10.

Trying to Decorate Outside Despite the WindPhoto by iridial on Unsplash

Every inflatable Santa in Lubbock spends December at a 45° angle.

Every. Single. One.

If your reindeer don’t look like they’re migrating to Amarillo, is it even Christmas?

And Finally…The Secret Box of TraditionsPhoto by Antonio Araujo on Unsplash

Some families keep a small shoebox of Christmas mementos, random ornaments, quirky crafts from 1998, and whatever else makes no sense but is considered “sentimental.” Every Lubbock family has one. Mine’s green.

Don’t question it. Just accept it.

In The End, It’s All Perfectly Lubbock

Yes, some of our traditions may seem unusual to outsiders, but that’s just part of our charm. Christmas in Lubbock isn’t perfect. Sometimes it’s windy. Sometimes it’s loud. But, it’s ALWAYS full of personality. Home, weird, and ours.

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