What Was in the Tree in Christmas Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie “Christmas Vacation,” you may have noticed a strange plot point involving a seemingly empty tree. The Griswold family spends the movie preparing for Christmas, including picking out the perfect tree. However, when they finally bring it home and set it up, they discover that there seems to be nothing inside the tree but sap.

What was in the tree in “Christmas Vacation”?

This question has puzzled viewers for years. Some have speculated that there must have been some kind of animal living inside the tree, while others believe that it was simply a case of bad luck or a faulty tree.

One popular theory is that the tree was infested with squirrels. This idea is supported by a scene earlier in the movie where Clark Griswold (played by Chevy Chase) accidentally brings home a squirrel along with his Christmas tree. However, there is never any concrete evidence presented in the movie to back up this theory.

Another possibility is that there was some kind of nest or hive inside the tree. This would explain why so much sap was oozing out of it – perhaps it was protecting its young or storing food.

Yet another theory is that the Griswolds simply got a bad batch of trees from their lot. It’s possible that they ended up with one that had been damaged or diseased, leading to its strange contents.

Regardless of what was actually inside the Griswold’s Christmas tree, it’s clear that this plot point has become one of the most memorable moments from “Christmas Vacation.” It adds to the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the film and serves as yet another example of how things never quite go according to plan for this family.

The Legacy of “Christmas Vacation”

While “Christmas Vacation” may have been released over 30 years ago, its popularity has not waned over time. The movie has become a beloved holiday classic, with fans eagerly watching it year after year.

Part of the appeal of “Christmas Vacation” lies in its relatable characters and situations. Everyone can relate to the stress and chaos that can come with preparing for the holidays, as well as the disappointment when things don’t go quite as planned.

In addition to its relatable storyline, “Christmas Vacation” is also known for its hilarious humor and memorable one-liners. From Clark’s epic rant about his boss to cousin Eddie’s iconic wardrobe, there are plenty of moments that have become ingrained in pop culture.

The Importance of Visual Storytelling

One reason why “Christmas Vacation” has remained so popular over the years is its use of visual storytelling. From the Griswold’s over-the-top Christmas decorations to the chaotic family dinners, much of the movie’s humor comes from what we see on screen rather than what is said.

This is a great example of how visual elements can enhance a story and make it more engaging for audiences. By using bold colors, exaggerated expressions, and other visual cues, “Christmas Vacation” is able to tell a story that is both hilarious and heartwarming.

The Takeaway

While we may never know for sure what was inside the Griswold’s Christmas tree, one thing is certain – “Christmas Vacation” will continue to be a beloved holiday classic for years to come. Its combination of relatable characters, hilarious humor, and strong visual storytelling make it a film that audiences will enjoy watching time and time again.