Love reading all the different traditions!! We have always opened our gifts to each other on Christmas Eve. You start with the youngest, going through his stocking, then opening his gifts. We progress, watching and admiring each person. It really doesn't take long, and tearing into gifts at breakneck speed is not allowed. This allows everyone to see and enjoy all the excitement, and helps the younger ones realize that Christmas is for everyone. This is done after dinner, which is different every year....Santa gifts were never wrapped. Our Christmas meals are usually smoked turkey and ham with all the trimmings, and more cookies, fudge and beverages than should be allowed!! We usually end the day with light snacks, coffee, and hot chocolate.