Christmas Day arguments start at 10.13am, survey suggests

A survey has revealed that the average British family will have their first Christmas Day argument at 10.13am.



The poll of 2,000 UK households was taken to see how December 25 was celebrated throughout the country.

A second family row is said to take place at 12.42pm, with most family members complaining about the wrong presents, according to the study carried out by Travelodge.

45% of British people surveyed stated that parents have a falling out between approximately 1pm and 3pm, either because the father has drank too much or the mother is getting stressed over the food.

The study showed that dinner is usually served at 2.23pm, while the third row takes place an hour later.

An evening argument is said to arrive at around 6.05pm, when family members have a remote control battle.

Another row erupts on average at 7.25pm, with grandparents attempting to start a game of charades.

Arguments are also said to occur at approximately 10.15pm before bedtime.

Relationship psychologist Corinne Sweet said of the results: "It's not only the turkey that gets overheated at Christmas - family flare-ups are inevitable.

"This is because people who rarely see each other are suddenly thrown together for the whole day. But the most important thing on Christmas Day is to relax and have fun.

"Make your expectations realistic and appreciate the time spent with your family."

The average December 25 diary is said to be as follows:

08.00 Wake-up
09.00 Have breakfast
10.00 Start eating the sweet selection boxes and chocolate tins
10.13 First family argument
12.00 The drinks cabinet is opened
12.42 Children get told off
13.30 Parents row over alcohol consumption
14.00 Parents "discuss" length of time it is taking to get the food on the table
14.23 Family eat Christmas dinner
15.24 Table bickering begins
18.05 First argument over ownership of remote control
19.25 Play games (charades, board games)
22.30 Bed time