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Whether we like it or not, sometimes Christmas day celebrations take a different turn. Even if we buy our gifts weeks ahead and carefully plan everything to the smallest detail, things don’t always go the way we want them to.

Whether your present is shattered into pieces or the Christmas tree is slowly going up in flames—there’s plenty of room for error. However, it’s all about finding the humor when disaster strikes.

In honor of the holiday season, Bored Panda has compiled a list of some of the most hilarious holiday fails that will definitely lift your spirits up. So scroll down, upvote your favorite ones and after you’re done, make sure to check out our previous posts about the little fiascos here and here.

#1

I Grabbed A Bottle Of Spray That Deters Cats From Chewing On Things, Sprayed It All Over My Christmas Tree. It Was A Catnip Spray Bottle

I Grabbed A Bottle Of Spray That Deters Cats From Chewing On Things, Sprayed It All Over My Christmas Tree. It Was A Catnip Spray Bottle

All over. 50 squirts at least. Then I went to put the spray back on the shelf and realized I grabbed the wrong bottle. Now I can't get them away from it.
 
This is the most chaotic thing that's ever happened. They've knocked down a branch, the star, and all of the ornaments that were on the lower half. Omg.

ChuckZombie Report

Every year, many of us try our best to get into the Christmas spirit. Yet, when we’re climbing up various objects to hang up festive lights or wrapping gifts with piercingly sharp scissors, we’re just inviting trouble.

It seems that 10 percent of Americans report injuries while putting up a Christmas tree, according to ValuePenguin. They conducted an online survey of more than two thousand consumers and asked them about their holiday season issues.

While the number of injured people might seem high, it’s down from 20 percent last year, and getting similar to the pre-coronavirus pandemic numbers. "One possible injury source: 18 percent admit to setting up their tree while they were drunk."

#2

Our Shameless Guiltless Adorable Cat After She Bit Through A Christmas Lights Cable And Stopped The Electricity In The Whole Apartment

Our Shameless Guiltless Adorable Cat After She Bit Through A Christmas Lights Cable And Stopped The Electricity In The Whole Apartment

ellie1398 Report

When it comes to the never-ending debate on whether a real or artificial Christmas tree is better, it seems that the former is typically a bigger fire hazard. However, both types can cause some potential risks: "Think overloaded sockets, faulty lights, overeager pets, lacerations from broken bulbs, etc."

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While we’re talking about people who might end up on Santa’s naughty list next year, the majority of participants admitted to leaving the string lights on overnight, which can be a fire hazard. What’s even more concerning, 10 percent of consumers use lights that are quite old. ValuePenguin recommends to "double-check the wiring before you decorate the tree, especially if you’re using older lights."

#3

Moments After Santa Got Kicked In The Balls. Santa Had A Vasectomy Last Week. I’m Santa

Moments After Santa Got Kicked In The Balls. Santa Had A Vasectomy Last Week. I’m Santa

Jimothy_Riggins Report

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Caro Caro
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Got this off Reddit: Guess I should clarify that I’m in my 30’s and so is my wife. I colored my beard grey and used aging make up. I guess I’m glad I look the part? But also bummed people think I’m ancient, lol. Also, the kid is a close family friend, I see him all the time when I don’t look like Santa. He was excited to meet Santa until he got up close and got scared. He didn’t intentionally kick me.

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#4

Just Got A New Job. They Said To Wear "Christmas Clothes" The Other Day. They All Came In Dressed Up. I Apparently Didn't Understand The Same Thing

Just Got A New Job. They Said To Wear "Christmas Clothes" The Other Day. They All Came In Dressed Up. I Apparently Didn't Understand The Same Thing

lali002 Report

Still, we’re not the only ones who can create dangerous situations in the house. Just think about the way your four-legged friends look at the tree decorations, plotting to do as much damage as fast as possible. 72 percent of pet owners said that their pets have knocked down their ornaments or the Christmas tree itself. 

Nearly half of those people reported damage caused by their furry companions: "It may be worth closing the door or finding a way to block them from getting near the Christmas tree when you can’t supervise their holiday behavior."

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#6

My Mom Bought Me This Christmas Sweater Thinking It Was Unisex. Narrator: It Wasn't

My Mom Bought Me This Christmas Sweater Thinking It Was Unisex. Narrator: It Wasn't

diggtrucks1025 Report

Holidays not only make us vulnerable to injuries and serious home disasters, but can also affect our relationships. When it comes to gift-giving, people say that it’s the thought that counts. However, when you receive a snow shovel, bait for fishing or a candle disguised as a champagne bottle, you can’t help but say "you really shouldn’t have!"

Earlier we spoke to Jeff Galak, an associate professor of marketing, about the main reasons people end up buying terrible presents for others: "There’s an odd cultural taboo that exists which makes people uncomfortable asking someone what kind of gift they want. But that taboo is entirely inappropriate." 

#7

I Ordered This 6 Weeks Ago So I Could Wear It For Christmas. It Just Came Today On Jan 9 And I Think It's Mocking Me

I Ordered This 6 Weeks Ago So I Could Wear It For Christmas. It Just Came Today On Jan 9 And I Think It's Mocking Me

TacoBellSauceAnswers Report

#8

My Wife Received A Corporate Gift From One Of Her Partners For Christmas. It Has Been In The Fridge Since. When I Went To Open The Bottle, I Found Out It Was A Candle

My Wife Received A Corporate Gift From One Of Her Partners For Christmas. It Has Been In The Fridge Since. When I Went To Open The Bottle, I Found Out It Was A Candle

It came with candy, champagne flutes, and a small bottle of bubbly.

42Navigator Report

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DUN DUN
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm laughing SO hard at this...I just can't stop scrolling back to it and giggle for the nth time

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#9

For Christmas 2019, My Boss Gifted Us With 1 Work From Home Day In 2020

For Christmas 2019, My Boss Gifted Us With 1 Work From Home Day In 2020

-edna__mode- Report

He added: "Gift recipients know what they want and they are eager to tell gift givers. There is nothing wrong with sharing that information and there’s nothing wrong with asking for it."

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When we choose to get an original present that the recipient does not actually want, it might signal a lack of care. "If a giver gives a gift that isn’t well received, there is a chance that the relationship will be strained. Gifts act as a social lubricant that signals care for another person... but that is undermined when the gift is bad," Galak explained. 

#10

It’s Not Write

It’s Not Write

Myneckmyguac Report

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Donnie Mc00
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A fine example of someone slipping through the educational net and destroying the English language on the way through.

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#11

Man Tying A Christmas Tree To The Roof, Tied Doors Too

Man Tying A Christmas Tree To The Roof, Tied Doors Too

taypa4227 Report

#12

Disinvited To Christmas Because I’m Getting The Booster Shot (I’m Also A Nurse Lol)

Disinvited To Christmas Because I’m Getting The Booster Shot (I’m Also A Nurse Lol)

soymilk666 Report

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Amy Dubois
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am also a nurse and this happened to me too. Bet you never thought of THIS happening to you when you were a kid and your parents were SO SMART lol

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So when you think about it, there are so many things that could go wrong during this special time of the year. Not everyone is able to handle the pressure to create a perfect celebration and still be thankful for the things that happened to us this year. We put so much importance on the vain side of Christmas, we forget to think of our values and priorities. 

#13

There Was An Attempt To Take A Cute Christmas Photo

There Was An Attempt To Take A Cute Christmas Photo

dogmum214 Report

#14

Today, United 328, A Boeing 777-200 Dropped Engine Parts Out Of The Sky

Today, United 328, A Boeing 777-200 Dropped Engine Parts Out Of The Sky

aker29 Report

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#15

My Expensive "Surprise" Gift For My Husband Being Left On The Porch Like This

My Expensive "Surprise" Gift For My Husband Being Left On The Porch Like This

badabingerrr Report

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Kelli Pike
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As a total stranger, I would stand guard over that with a baseball bat until the proper owners arrived.

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American Psychological Association suggests some healthy tips that can help you manage your hopes for this holiday season. An important piece of advice would be setting realistic expectations when it comes to gifts and activities. Don’t try to tick off every single thing on your Christmas to-do list and don’t stress about the little details: "View any missteps as opportunities to exercise your flexibility and resilience. A lopsided tree or a burned brisket won’t ruin your holiday—it will create a family memory."

#16

Christmas Tree On Fire In Kaunas, Lithuania

Christmas Tree On Fire In Kaunas, Lithuania

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#17

Can You All Confirm For My Wife I'm Not Dumb And It Could Have Happened To Anyone?

Can You All Confirm For My Wife I'm Not Dumb And It Could Have Happened To Anyone?

darkpollopesca Report

#18

The Gift My Brother (HI) Sent Me (AZ) Disappeared From The Postal Tracking System For 26 Days. It Popped Up Today In Chuuk, FSM

The Gift My Brother (HI) Sent Me (AZ) Disappeared From The Postal Tracking System For 26 Days. It Popped Up Today In Chuuk, FSM

tuwale Report

Also, remember to take time for yourself. If you’re feeling stressed, find the time to rest and recharge: "Be mindful and focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future." And most importantly, the holiday season is actually short, so try and keep things in perspective. If you feel overwhelmed with the amount of things you need to do, you will have time to do it after the festivities. 

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#19

When Your Christmas Tree Just Can’t Make It Until Christmas

When Your Christmas Tree Just Can’t Make It Until Christmas

Nipgen05 Report

#20

My Family (Who Don't Have Much Money) Paid For Priority Shipping Weeks Ago To Get Here Before Christmas. My Gift Was My Baby Ornaments. I Got It Today Like This

My Family (Who Don't Have Much Money) Paid For Priority Shipping Weeks Ago To Get Here Before Christmas. My Gift Was My Baby Ornaments. I Got It Today Like This

TigerLily1014 Report

#21

This Is The Second Time I’ve Had To Quit My Job In Order To See My Family For Christmas, Who I See Once A Year

This Is The Second Time I’ve Had To Quit My Job In Order To See My Family For Christmas, Who I See Once A Year

TallManTimbo Report

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Jo Choto
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Unfortunately, if you work in a business that is open all through Christmas, it's a pretty sure bet you cannot assume that you can take the entire holiday period off.

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If Christmas didn’t turn out the way you expected, it’s not the end of the world. Small mistakes are unavoidable and they might seem annoying at first. However, the sooner you realize that these little mishaps are not worth getting upset about, the sooner you can let out a nice laugh and carry on with the celebration.

#22

When Your Dreams Of A White Christmas Don’t Go As Planned

When Your Dreams Of A White Christmas Don’t Go As Planned

Exhibit A, Kenzie emptying an ENTIRE BAG OF FLOUR everywhere as we were getting ready to decorate cookies last Christmas.

They looked to me and when my reaction decided to embrace the chaos vs anger and stress, we made the best Christmas memories.

yolotravelsolo Report

#23

It’s Christmas Eve, Another Person Just Left The Office Feeling Sick, I Am The Last Engineer Without Covid-19

It’s Christmas Eve, Another Person Just Left The Office Feeling Sick, I Am The Last Engineer Without Covid-19

Ultimate88t Report

#24

Woman Spent £85 On A "Grinch Visit". He Did His Job Perfectly

Woman Spent £85 On A "Grinch Visit". He Did His Job Perfectly

cafucatfood , Laura Magill Report

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Otter
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If the kids got to help smash and smear everything, they probably think they had the BEST CHRISTMAS EVER!!!!

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#25

Stole One Of These Candies From My Kid’s Christmas Stash, Learned The Hard Way They’re Actually Individually Wrapped Soaps

Stole One Of These Candies From My Kid’s Christmas Stash, Learned The Hard Way They’re Actually Individually Wrapped Soaps

MichelleS2323 Report

#26

Elf Socks I Got My Dad For Christmas, When Wearing Pants Just Shows Will Ferrell Crotch

Elf Socks I Got My Dad For Christmas, When Wearing Pants Just Shows Will Ferrell Crotch

Laundry-Champagne Report

#27

Ordered My Daughter A MacBook Air For Christmas And This Is What FedEx Delivered

Ordered My Daughter A MacBook Air For Christmas And This Is What FedEx Delivered

reddit.com Report

#28

I Made A (Fitting) Christmas Ornament And Dropped It Immediately After

I Made A (Fitting) Christmas Ornament And Dropped It Immediately After

Jeeveskin Report

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Andy Acceber
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Even better. Awkwardly tape it back together, and it will be even more perfect.

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#29

I Got A New Coat For Christmas And My Toddler Got Some New Markers

I Got A New Coat For Christmas And My Toddler Got Some New Markers

Idcaster Report

#30

Nashville Explosion On Christmas

Nashville Explosion On Christmas

Eagle7924 Report

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Mando
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I live near Nashville, and my dad is a cop, so he had to go out and work that year. The whole thing was really sad, and there are still parts of Nashville that are uninhabitable for businesses.

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Kim Lorton
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That bomber incident where he blew himself up in an RV. Very sad! Was suicide.

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Earl Grey
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Retracing the sequence of events to this tragedy: https://www.tennessean.com/in-depth/news/local/2021/01/10/timeline-christmas-morning-bombing-nashville/6578915002/

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Rebekah Tracy
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was there that day. Visiting my grandma. That’s not very festive my guy. 🥺 RIP

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Randy Volz
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

https://www.fiercewireless.com/operators/at-t-s-building-hit-by-christmas-bombing-nashville

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#31

Spotted A Xmas Tree Full Of 2021 Wishes And This Was The First I Saw. That Wasn't Very Christmassy

Spotted A Xmas Tree Full Of 2021 Wishes And This Was The First I Saw. That Wasn't Very Christmassy

i_dream_in_code Report

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Slinkman
Community Member
2 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well if their message doesn't come through to you the whole year around, then this maybe is a better way to reach. I don't know you, but this doesn't seem to come out of thin air.

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#32

$80 Christmas Gift Applied Directly To My Driveway

$80 Christmas Gift Applied Directly To My Driveway

AbbiAndIlana Report

#33

When Your Secret Santa Gift Arrives Broken

When Your Secret Santa Gift Arrives Broken

unacceptablelemonguard4 Report

#34

Well, There Goes My Christmas

Well, There Goes My Christmas

IllustriousRhubarb Report

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#35

My Wife And I Bought My Father A Personalized Gift For Christmas. The Wording That Came With It Was Not What We Submitted

My Wife And I Bought My Father A Personalized Gift For Christmas. The Wording That Came With It Was Not What We Submitted

at9218 Report

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H G
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Kelli Pike- You'd sue a company for sending them the wrong gift by accident? They're probably totally swamped with Christmas orders a simple mistake happened. The only thing here that is abhorrent is you.

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#36

To Put Christmas Decor In The Attic. I Fell All The Way Through

To Put Christmas Decor In The Attic. I Fell All The Way Through

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Slinkman
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You could say; 'Christmas went through the roof this year...' yeah i now the exit

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#37

Who's Ready For Christmas Morning Waffles?

Who's Ready For Christmas Morning Waffles?

proscriptus Report

#39

Not The Best Idea To Write A Blog About Christmas Decorations

Not The Best Idea To Write A Blog About Christmas Decorations

mycottondrawer Report

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Bob Bobbs
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Once little me and my mom made Grittibänz (traditional Christmas buns shaped like people). When made them dough scarf and everything, cute AF. But they came out burnt and hard as a rock. Ruined. My mom, the genius, had the idea to apply laquer and we decorated them with glitter etc. and turned them into cute Christmas decorations :D Sometimes mistakes make the best things.

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#40

This Is What Happens When You Try To Burn A Christmas Tree In A Home Fireplace

This Is What Happens When You Try To Burn A Christmas Tree In A Home Fireplace

McKinney Fire Department Report

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