David Spade has criticized a shopping mall’s recent tree lighting ceremony for not mentioning the word “Christmas.” During a podcast episode with Dana Carvey, Spade expressed concern that the organizers were deliberately avoiding the reference to the holiday. He noted that it was odd to see a Christmas tree being displayed without any mention of Christmas itself.
“I mean, Christmas has seemed to be gaining popularity. It’s December, and I stumbled upon this tree lighting event at a mall where they just called it a lighting ceremony,” Spade remarked, without naming the mall.
Carvey responded with a simple “no” when Spade questioned whether the tree was there for some general reason. Spade continued, asking what the tree was for if they were consciously avoiding its connection to Christmas. He humorously suggested that it was just for some vague “December to remember” theme rather than the holiday itself.
Carvey added that he knows many individuals from various faiths and mentioned he’s never encountered anyone who had a problem with Christmas trees. Spade echoed this sentiment, stating he was tired of the negativity surrounding the holiday. “Everyone enjoys Santa, the decorations… why shy away from that?” he said.
Carvey brought up the idea that while Christmas is a religious holiday, it has become quite secular over time, especially in the U.S. “If you practice a faith, it’s about Christianity,” he said. “But honestly, in America, it’s become just Christmas. I think it’s a fun holiday.” However, he also expressed his disapproval of limiting free speech. “I don’t enjoy the thought police,” he noted, indicating he prefers to have the freedom to use any words he likes.
Spade remarked that he doesn’t appreciate the anti-Christian sentiment that seems to linger around Christmas. He described the Christian experience as being treated differently compared to other religions, expressing concern for Christians in different parts of the world facing persecution.
After discussing the difficulties Christians are facing globally, Spade redirected the topic back to what he sees as ongoing disdain for Christmas. He mentioned how the city of Portland, Oregon, received backlash for its recent lighting ceremony that chose to avoid using the word “Christmas.” The event, held on November 28, featured traditional decorations and a visit from Santa Claus, but organizers called it “Portland’s 41st Annual Tree Lighting” without mentioning Christmas at all.
Social media users criticized this decision, suggesting it was an effort to sidestep Christianity altogether. Some comments on social platforms reflected frustration over the changes to how the holiday is being discussed publicly, suggesting that when it comes to Christmas trees, they should still be recognized for what they are—Christmas trees.
In response to the criticisms, Mayor Keith Wilson’s office defended the event, calling it a “Christmas tree lighting ceremony” and stating that activities included Christmas carols and festivities. They felt the framing of the event could be approached in different ways.
