We can’t wait for those magic moments again

THE dream of a real Christmas after last year’s debacle has more of us shiny-eyed with anticipation than ever – including for traditions once loathed like daft jumpers and squabbles.

Research before Covid revealed festive fripperies were losing their appeal.

More than half of people polled even said they’d rather have a lie-in on the big day than celebrate.

But now four out of five people are as excited as they have ever been – or even more so.

Two-thirds missed fighting over the remote control, oversharing at boozy work parties and amateurish pantos and nativity plays.

Surprisingly, the under-24s were the most nostalgic. More than eight in 10 are looking forward to bickering with relatives and other “embarrassing” family traditions.

The survey discovered that until now our Christmas spirit began to wane at the age of 20 due to stress, money worries and the pressure of picking the perfect gift. But 2020 reignited our excitement and hankering for everything we missed, from battling though busy shops to over-competitive games and the “oldies” having a bop. Across all ages, a third are looking forward to the ritualistic first tipple of the day – usually a G&T. Even more – three-quarters – cannot wait to get the whole family under one roof again. Giving presents once more, watching children’s faces as they open them and group naps after the turkey blow-out are all on our wish-lists. Many also see this as the year to introduce new traditions, according to the Schweppes poll.

Seven in 10 will be giving big nights out a miss, preferring cosying up at home. One in five plan to dress up to stay in for the first time. Nearly as many will buy some natty pyjamas too to loaf in.