Chris Pugh

Crumpet the Elf and the Spirit of Christmas.

For some of us, Christmas doesn’t officially start until the first crackle of David Sedaris’s voice rings out, recounting his less-than-magical stint working as Crumpet the Elf at Macy’s department store. For me, The Santaland Diaries has become a quirky, irreverent tradition—an antidote to the syrupy holiday cheer we’re all supposed to bask in. It reminds us that not everyone feels like decking the halls 24/7, and that’s okay.

Sedaris is a master of observational humor and storytelling. He first gained fame as a public radio contributor in the 1990s and is known for his sharp wit and knack for finding humor in life’s absurdities. His essays and memoirs resonate with readers who appreciate his unique blend of humor and heartfelt reflection. The Santaland Diaries, originally a broadcast on NPR’s Morning Edition, remains one of his most iconic and enduring works.

Whenever I read his tale of chaotic shoppers, overly enthusiastic parents, and the ridiculous demands of elfdom, I feel like catching up with an old friend who understands my holiday struggles. He doesn’t just laugh at the absurdity of it all—he invites us to laugh with him. And honestly, don’t we all need some of that during the holiday chaos?

For me, listening to The Santaland Diaries is a way to hit pause and revel in the humor of the season’s imperfections. It’s not all chestnuts roasting and snowflakes falling. Sometimes, it’s crying kids, long lines, and the occasional existential crisis about why we’re all standing around a department store in search of “magic.” Sedaris taps into that collective experience, balancing cynicism with just enough heart to keep it festive.

Whether you’re baking cookies, wrapping presents, or cozying up on the couch with a cup of cocoa, listening to The Santaland Diaries feels like a tradition meant for adults. It allows us to embrace the season without taking it—or ourselves—too seriously. After all, isn’t that what the holidays are truly about? Finding joy in the chaos and remembering to laugh along the way.

Originally published in the Fort Bragg Advocate-News on December 24, 2024.