The Generational Divide in Holiday Work: Gen Z Leading the Charge on Christmas Shifts
A recent Newsweek survey conducted by Talker Research sheds light on a striking generational divide in attitudes towards working on Christmas Day. While the majority of Americans still prefer to spend December 25th away from the workplace, Gen Z (born 1997-2006) stands out as the most likely generation to be clocking in on the holiday. Over half of Gen Z respondents (52%) reported working on Christmas at least occasionally, a stark contrast to older generations like Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964), where only 14% indicated similar work patterns. This disparity highlights evolving work ethics, economic realities, and industry landscapes shaping how different generations approach the holiday season.
The survey, which polled 1,000 individuals across various age groups, provides a granular look at the frequency of Christmas Day employment. While a small percentage of both Gen Z and Millennials (born 1981-1996) – 5% each – reported “always” working on Christmas, this figure dwindles to 3% for Gen X (born 1965-1980) and becomes virtually nonexistent for the Silent Generation (born 1925-1945). A similar pattern emerges for those who "often" work on the holiday, with 7% of Gen Z and 6% of Millennials compared to a mere 1% of Baby Boomers. Even for “sometimes” working on Christmas, Gen Z (16%) and Millennials (19%) significantly outpace Baby Boomers (4%). The overall trend indicates a clear correlation between age and the likelihood of working on Christmas, with younger generations demonstrating a greater acceptance of holiday shifts.
This trend is further underscored by the percentage of respondents who "never" work on Christmas Day. While 48% of Gen Z reported never working on the holiday, this figure rises dramatically to 86% for Baby Boomers and a near-universal 97% for the Silent Generation. This generational gap points towards a shifting perspective on the sanctity of holidays as work-free days, potentially influenced by changing economic conditions, industry demands, and personal priorities.
Several factors contribute to Gen Z’s higher propensity for Christmas Day employment. Experts point to the overrepresentation of Gen Z in sectors that typically operate throughout the holidays, such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, and the gig economy. These essential services often require staffing regardless of the date, making younger workers more likely to be called upon during holiday periods. Furthermore, the financial incentives offered for holiday shifts, such as double-time pay or bonuses, can prove particularly attractive to younger workers facing increasing living costs. These incentives, coupled with potentially fewer personal commitments like childcare or hosting family gatherings, make holiday work a more viable and appealing option for Gen Z.
The changing perception of holiday work among younger generations is also noteworthy. While older generations traditionally viewed holidays as sacrosanct family time, Gen Z often sees holiday shifts as an opportunity for financial gain and career advancement. The availability of extra pay or the possibility of earning flexible time off later can transform holiday work from an obligation into a strategic choice. This reflects a pragmatic approach to work-life balance, where individuals prioritize their financial well-being and career goals even during traditionally family-oriented periods.
This survey’s findings align with other emerging trends suggesting a potential shift in the workforce landscape. Studies hinting at a "mass resignation" among Gen Z and Millennials in 2025, coupled with Gen Z’s higher willingness to leave jobs without raises compared to Baby Boomers, indicate a growing emphasis on fair compensation and work-life balance among younger workers. The willingness to work on holidays for increased pay reinforces this focus on financial stability and career progression.
The evolving dynamics of the workforce are also reflected in policy changes, such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ announcement of additional holiday leave for state employees. While this initiative provides extra paid time off for nearly 100,000 full-time state workers around Christmas, the exclusion of part-time OPS workers highlights ongoing discrepancies in how different employment categories are valued. This discrepancy underscores the need for more equitable labor practices that consider the needs and contributions of all workers, regardless of their employment status.
In conclusion, the Newsweek survey reveals a significant generational divide in attitudes towards working on Christmas Day. Gen Z’s greater likelihood of taking on holiday shifts reflects a combination of factors, including their prevalence in essential industries, the allure of financial incentives, and a more pragmatic approach to work-life balance. This trend, alongside other indicators like potential "mass resignations" and evolving policy changes, points to a shifting landscape in the workforce, where younger generations prioritize financial stability, career advancement, and fair compensation, even during traditionally family-centric holidays like Christmas. The survey underscores the need for further research and dialogue to address the evolving needs of the workforce and ensure equitable treatment for all employees, regardless of their age or employment status.
