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 Festivus, The Best Holiday Ever!

The television show "Seinfeld" left many marks on American culture during its long run in the nineties.  We all know the identities of the Soup Nazi, Mulva, Man Hands, Dr. Van Nostrand, and Art Van de Lay.  We can tell the difference between high talkers, low talkers, and close talkers.   We all know the best fake career to have is that of an architect.  Sure, this show is still talked about, and will be for years to come.   Rarely does a day pass without something happening to me that reminds me of a "Seinfeld" episode.  

Perhaps the most indelible image left by this show is the made up holiday called Festivus.  Frank Costanza introduced the world to this unique celebration years ago.  Every year at Christmas time, the Costanza's would erect an unadorned alumium  pole in the living room, and Festivus would begin with the airing of grievances.  This would be followed by the feats of strength, and Festivus would not be over until Frank had been pinned.

Festivus is by far, the best holiday ever invented.  I fully support it.  The truth, no matter how hurtful, will be spoken and frustration and stress will be expunged for one glorious night.  Nothing is sacred while the speaker grasps the pole.  No holds barred.  Everything is out in the open. Residual anger can be dealt with during the feats of strength.  What could be healthier?  Say what you mean, fight a little, then move on with your lives.      

This pretend holiday sounds pretty damn appealing to those of us with more frustration than joy in our hearts at Christmas time.  The year 2000 marked the first observance of Festivus by my brother Jason and our friend Kevin.  That year the pole was fabricated from cardboard tubes and aluminum foil, and was less than three feet high.  The next year passed without the observance of Festivus, however this year, 2002, saw the return of the tradition, including an honest to God aluminum pole that stood five feet tall.  Our Festivus ran all night long, finally winding down at 6:30 in the morning, but it was all worthwhile.  Here's to next year!  

A Festivus for the rest of us!!!  Here are the photos of our Festivus 2002 on Cherry Hill.......

Kevin arrives with the pole.  Festivus can begin.

Jason starts the grievances rolling.

 I've got a lot of problems with you people!

You guys don't understand...it was electric, seriously.

Sometimes, there just aren't words...ya'll.

Channeling our grievances...out, out, damned spot!

The power of the pole urges us to speak.

Can you hear me now?

Dude....Shotgun!!!

Jason trys to best Troy in the Feats of Strength.

Festivus is officially over.  Jason rides the pole.

Once again, Troy succumbs to fatigue, mouth agape like a fish.

Of course, there are others out there who observe Festivus....like these people Los Angeles, CA.