UPDATE: Comedian David Spade has sparked controversy by criticizing holiday tree-lighting ceremonies that avoid using the word “Christmas.” During a recent episode of his “Fly on the Wall” podcast with Dana Carvey, Spade expressed disbelief over what he described as a “conscious” effort to exclude the term from holiday celebrations, specifically referencing a tree-lighting event at a mall on December 3, 2023.
Spade’s remarks come at a time when the secularization of Christmas has become a hot topic across the United States. He stated, “I will say that Christmas is taking a little bit of a beating lately,” highlighting his concerns about the ongoing trend to sanitize holiday language. “They were careful not to say the word Christmas during the whole ceremony,” he continued, emphasizing the absurdity of referring to a “Christmas tree” without acknowledging the holiday.
The comedians shared a lively exchange, with Carvey questioning, “So it’s just a tree?” Spade pointed out that avoiding the term raises confusion about the holiday’s true meaning. Both expressed frustration over what they view as an increasing “anti-Christian feel” in American society. Carvey noted, “If you’re of faith, it’s about Christianity,” while recognizing the holiday’s secular appeal.
This discussion occurred amid wider conversations about cultural sensitivities and the treatment of Christianity versus other religions. Spade remarked, “You can’t say that about anyone else,” referencing the persecution Christians face in various parts of the world. He cited a June 2025 report from International Christian Concern, which detailed instances of violence against Christians in countries like Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The controversy surrounding holiday terminology is not new. In Portland, similar backlash erupted when the city held its annual tree-lighting event without explicitly calling it a “Christmas” celebration. Critics accused the organizers of erasing the holiday’s identity. However, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson‘s office later clarified that the event was indeed a “Christmas Tree Lighting,” dismissing the uproar.
As the holiday season approaches, Spade’s comments resonate with many who feel that the essence of Christmas is being diluted. He concluded his remarks with a plea for respect towards all religions, stating, “You’re not allowed to slam someone else’s religion.”
With discussions intensifying around the significance of holiday traditions, Spade’s commentary highlights an urgent cultural moment as Americans navigate the balance between inclusivity and preserving religious identity. What happens next in this ongoing dialogue remains to be seen, but the conversation surrounding Christmas and its place in American culture is far from over.
Stay tuned for further developments on this story as public reactions unfold.
