Christmas disasters: 7 funny festive tales to bring 5 minutes of cheer

The festive season is full of joy, yes, but it can also be a recipe for funny disasters when you bring family and friends (and often booze) together.

Here are seven real-life Christmas disasters that took a turn, reminding us that sometimes, laughter is the best gift of all.

Nude bocce, anyone?

Radio star Abby Coleman recalls a family Christmas game of bocce that took an unexpected turn when someone suggested playing in the nude. The competitive family’s attempt at the risqué version led to a lot of awkwardness – naked with your family? It’s a no from us. Do not try this at home. 

The Buddha heist hangover

Brooke’s office Christmas party escalated after a day of drinking. In an inebriated attempt to impress a coworker, she tried to steal a gold Buddha statue from a restaurant, resulting in the entire team being escorted out. Thanks to an understanding HR team, she kept her job…

Jet wash vomit

Annie O’Quigley’s office Christmas party took a turn when she overindulged in wine during a 12-course meal. Her boss had to carry her to a minibus, where she began projectile vomiting. In an attempt to clean her up, he used a jet wash but mistakenly sprayed her with screenwash, exacerbating the chaos. Yes, Annie kept her job, too, but we can’t imagine the hangxiety. 

The exploding Christmas tree

Jess Origliasso of The Veronicas recalls a Christmas where their dry tree was placed too close to the fireplace. It caught fire and exploded, leading to a frantic attempt to extinguish the flames. A fiery but funny mishap.

The dog’s Christmas feast

One family’s dog got into the rubbish and, mid-meal, vomited multiple times near the perfectly set table. The situation escalated as the dog had further accidents under the table, turning the holiday dinner into a chaotic double-ended cleanup job.

The accidental proposal

A man intending to gift his girlfriend a necklace accidentally dropped it, and in his attempt to retrieve it, ended up on one knee. His girlfriend mistook the gesture for a proposal and excitedly said yes, leading to an awkward Christmas misunderstanding. We’d love to know if they’re still together…

The in-law mix-up

During a family Christmas gathering, a woman accidentally sat on her brother-in-law’s lap, mistaking him for her husband due to matching sweaters. The room fell silent, but she got away with it when she realised in genuine horror. 

Embrace the imperfections HLN’ers – they make the best stories.