As I’ve been reading the frugal living forums, financial headlines and comment boards across the Internet during the past few days, I’ve been seeing some people chime in about the predicted shakeup in the holiday shopping business that they think it’s well overdue.

“But Jesus is the reason for the season,” some say. There never was a need to blow up Christmas into the commercial spectacle it has become. Put that shopping money to charity, some say. Spend time in prayer and preparation rather than rushing to parties.

Well, society seems to have a desire for a festive holiday season regardless of the reason. Do some investigating as to what holiday traditions are observed in non-Christian modern cultures and ancient cultures. You’ll find a lot of references to feasting, sweets or special foods, dazzling light displays or symbolic candle arrangements, seasonal music, special rituals and prayers, family travels, gift exchanges or presentations of money, and even exchanging greeting cards.

And the American Christmas holiday started morphing into its over-the-top celebration more than 150 years ago. You may find it interesting to read Laura Ingalls Wilder’s depictions in her “Little House on the Prairie” series of Christmas traditions as they were introduced on the frontier; or research the history of the Christmas festival at The History Channel.

Did you mind all the fuss and glitter when you were a child? Or did you find the Christmas season to be exciting and interesting? Well, that’s why those celebrations became so popular.

It is possible to have a healthy balance between the religious and secular traditions of Christmas. It also is possible to keep the expenses down while having a lot of fun during the holiday season.

Regardless of where you find your inspiration, keep only the traditions that add joy to your heart and update your family’s rituals if you think a change is necessary this year.

This is the weekend to discuss Christmas holiday plans with your family.

Any changes you need to make for December activities and celebrations will go over much easier if there are no surprises when the season starts.