I got married 21 years ago and it never ceases to amaze me at how different families celebrate the same holiday so differently.  When I was growing up presents were handed out and then we just tore into them (as my son says) like a pack of rottweilers.  Ripping, tearing and throwing paper everywhere.  Boxes, bows and ribbons strewn all over the floor.  People all talking at once, holding up their new sweater or shirt.  Kids running up to parents and grandparents, aunt or uncle to say thank you for the one thing they got that they really wanted!  In other words complete and udder chaos.  I loved it!!!!
Now let’s compare my husband’s family.  Everyone sits on a chair and another person hands out the presents.  You are to wait until everyone has their presents.  Then when everyone has their presents you wait and open them one person at a time.  It was such a shock to be told when I was handed a package “Don’t open it until its your turn, and oh yeah put your paper in here.”
After so many years of marriage I do have to say that I still like my families way the best but when we are with his family we do it their way.  The holidays are about compromise,  sharing traditions no matter how different they may be from the way you were raised and creating new traditions.
So what are your traditions in your family?