The Kardashians Scale Back Annual Christmas Eve Bash for a “Truly Intimate” Gathering

In a surprising twist for one of Hollywood’s most extravagant families, the Kardashian-Jenner clan has decided to downsize their legendary Christmas Eve bash this year. Known for hosting some of the most luxurious and star-studded holiday parties in recent history, the family is stepping away from opulence in favour of a more intimate and modest gathering.

Kim Kardashian Reveals a Simpler Celebration

During a recent interview at the opening of her Skims store in New York City last week, Kim Kardashian announced the shift in plans.

“This year, we’re hosting a very low-key Christmas Eve party,” the 44-year-old reality star shared, citing ongoing construction work as a key reason for downsizing. “We’re planning a truly intimate family gathering, and honestly, I’m really looking forward to it,” Kim explained.

Still, in true Kardashian style, she assured fans that the family would still “dress up.” “Because that’s just what we do,” Kim emphasized.

The Tradition Continues, Just Differently

Although this year’s gathering will be more modest, Kim reassured that the “legendary” Christmas parties aren’t going anywhere.

“They’ve just begun,” she said. “Our kids absolutely love them, and now all their friends want to join. It’s such a fun tradition.”

The lavish Christmas Eve tradition dates back to the late 1970s, when it began at Kris Jenner’s Calabasas estate. Over the decades, the event has become a cornerstone of the Kardashian holiday season, with Kim and her sister Kourtney Kardashian alternating hosting duties at their respective California mansions.

A History of Extravagance

Planning for these iconic celebrations often takes weeks and can cost as much as $1.3 million, according to People. Regardless of the host, the parties are known for their star-studded guest lists, featuring celebrities like Paris Hilton, John Legend, Jennifer Lopez, Christina Aguilera, Tyler the Creator, and Timothée Chalamet.

Last year, Kim turned her $60 million estate into a winter wonderland, complete with fake snow, a forest of Christmas trees, and a massive cabin-like structure in her backyard. Guests danced, sipped festive cocktails, and even enjoyed skiing down artificial slopes. Grammy-winning artist Babyface also performed a special holiday set during the evening.

Kourtney, on the other hand, opted for a bold red-themed celebration for her turn as host. Her backyard was transformed into a “wild and magical” space, featuring Grammy winner Sia as the headline performer. “The main event took place inside a giant glass tent,” People reported, where guests were treated to customized cocktails, a cappuccino and matcha bar, and a spread of the family’s traditional recipes, including mac and cheese, sweet potato soufflé, and honey-glazed ham.

For the kids, a dedicated tent offered activities such as balloon animal creations, a ball pit, and “Santa’s workshop elves” leading craft sessions.

Adjusting Traditions After the Pandemic

The 2022 Christmas party marked the family’s first grand-scale holiday celebration since 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to scale down.

While the Kardashians are simplifying their plans this year, their knack for creating unforgettable memories ensures this Christmas will still be a special one. Whether hosting an intimate family gathering or a full-scale extravaganza, the Kardashian–Jenner family continues to redefine holiday traditions.