Bah Humbug! Christmas isn’t Really The Happiest Time of Year in Idaho

Christmas time is supposed to be one of the best times, if not the best time of the year. The music is playing, the lights are shining, Santa is out, everyone is giving, and parties are being thrown. The end of the year means time with your family, candies, cookies, Christmas bonuses, and parades. While many seem to enjoy the holiday season, and the phrase, 'happiest time of the year,' is thrown out, one begs to question, how happy is the holiday season, especially in Twin Falls? While the phrase may be used often, it may not be as exciting of a time as many claims it to be. Here is why the holiday season is not so happy in Twin Falls and the state of Idaho.

Traffic in Twin Falls

Traffic in Twin Falls typically isn't that bad outside of rush hour before and after work and lunch hour. Even then, traffic isn't awful, but when the holidays roll around, residents from surrounding towns all migrate to Twin Falls to do a little holiday shopping, and it backs up the traffic at all the lights, especially around Blue Lakes and Pole Line. If you need to get anywhere in that area, you will need to learn patience, and that isn't always easy behind a wheel.

Forced to Christmas Shop

If you are like me and hate to shop, then Christmas can be a drag when you are forced to go shopping for your friends and family. Grocery shopping and clothes shopping typically drags, but at least you know what you want for yourself, but when it comes to shopping for others, it takes much longer to find exactly what you want. The pressure is real, and as each day ticks by, it builds if you don't find the right gift the first time out, having to go out a second time or third makes the holiday season more dreadful.

Twin Falls is too Crowded

To go along with the shopping and the traffic, people flock to Twin from all over the Magic Valley, and it causes crowds in all the stores. Try going through Walmart, Target, or Costco on the weekend, and you will regret it if you do. It isn't only that so many people are in the stores, as much as the way they act. Many are oblivious to the fact that other human beings are in the same store as them. Too many shoppers like this create plenty of frustration and anger. 

Too Much Christmas Music

The holiday season brings with it a certain spirit and music, and while many enjoy these classic songs and the festive lights, it can often be a little too much after a few weeks. Christmas songs are a must through the holiday season, but after hearing the same songs over and over again in every store, in every movie, and on the radio, it can take a toll on a person. If you are someone that loves it and it doesn't bother you, great. If you are a normal human being, odds are you will be over it by the middle of December. 

Spending Holidays Alone

The holidays are meant to be spent with friends, family, and those closest to you, but that isn't possible for everyone. It is tough and sometimes impossible for certain individuals to travel for the holidays, and with COVID still a thing, it is sometimes smart to stay away from certain family members as well for their benefit or yours. Spending the holidays alone is never fun, and can be a downer. Weather can play a factor at times too, making it tough to travel, especially in Idaho. Having a planned trip get canceled due to ice and snow is never fun and can ruin the holidays. 

Holiday Depression

While most of these are slight complaints and more light-hearted, the real downside of the holidays is the depression that can happen. Lack of money, lack of family, and cold, overcast days can all take a toll and lead to major depression. While the holidays may be happy for many, other individuals in this country will be reminded of who isn't with them and holiday depression is a very real thing. If this is you, please seek help, and reach out to a friend, a family member, or somebody through work or church and let them know how you are feeling. Don't let holiday depression get you down. 

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The holiday season may be the happiest time of the year for many, but for others, it is just a cold, angry time of extra errands, too many people, too much traffic, and annoying music. Yes, the time with loved ones and the food is enjoyable, but is it enough to make it the happiest time of the year? It is possible to enjoy Christmas, but it doesn't mean you have to enjoy the season that comes around it. Bah humbug.