Poll: Which Holiday Is The Best?
DETROIT (WWJ) - With Halloween just days away, it got us thinking here in the WWJ Newsroom: Which holiday is the best?
Some proclaimed Halloween the best, noting the influence candy had on their decision. Others said Thanksgiving and Easter, because it brings them closer with their families. A few females said Valentine's Day, because they love the romance, while others said Boss's Day, clearly stretching for brownie points.
But like the majority of the newsroom, it seems American's just can't wait for that time of year when they decorate the tree and wait for Santa Clause to deliver gifts and cheer.
According to a Harris Poll, Christmas came out on top for U.S. adults, followed by the uniquely American holiday of Thanksgiving. Third on the list is Halloween.
Rounding out the top five favorite holiday list is another patriotic day as Fourth of July comes in at number 4, followed by the Christian celebration of Easter at number 5.
The second half of the top ten list is dominated by non-religious holidays, with New Year's at 6 and the bookends of summer, Memorial Day and Labor Day, at 7 and 8 respectively.
And, the number 9 most popular mention when Americans were asked to name their favorite holiday is a different day for everyone as many people responded with "my birthday."
Tied for number ten on the list is Valentine's Day and the Jewish celebration of Hannukah—the only non-Christian religious holiday to make the Top 10 list for Americans.
Favorites for Different Groups
It seems American preferences do not vary too much in terms of favorite holidays – the top two favorites for every generation as well as both men and women are Christmas and Thanksgiving.
However, the third favorite holiday does vary somewhat: younger adults aged 18-34 and Gen X aged 35-46, both have Halloween as their third favorite, as do women. Baby Boomers aged 47-65 and Matures aged 66 and older—as well as men – rank the Fourth of July, as their third favorite holiday.
There are many holidays – religious, secular, personal and patriotic – that occur during the calendar year. While all Americans may not observe each one, everyone has at least a few days that they look forward to. And, even if a particular holiday is not one that you personally celebrate, those days can be good times to visit with family or friends, possibly have a day off from work, and maybe even learn about someone else's traditions. Happy holidays!
