What Does Aunt Bethany Say in Christmas Vacation?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, then you’re probably familiar with the character Aunt Bethany. She’s known for her quirky personality and her unique way of speaking.

One of the most memorable moments from the film is when Aunt Bethany says grace before dinner. But what exactly does she say? Let’s take a closer look.

The Famous Grace Scene

In the scene, Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, asks Aunt Bethany to say grace before they eat their Christmas dinner. Aunt Bethany seems a bit confused at first but eventually agrees. She starts to recite what sounds like a traditional prayer:

Aunt Bethany: “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands…”

Everyone at the table looks confused and starts to whisper to each other. It’s clear that Aunt Bethany has gotten her wires crossed.

The Real Grace

After some prodding from Clark, Aunt Bethany realizes her mistake and quickly corrects herself. She then recites a more appropriate prayer:

Aunt Bethany: “Grace? She passed away thirty years ago.”

Everyone at the table looks stunned, but then Uncle Lewis speaks up and tells them that they should all have a moment of silence for Grace.

It’s a hilarious moment in the movie that has become iconic among fans.

The Legacy of Aunt Bethany

Aunt Bethany may not have been the brightest bulb in the bunch, but she was definitely one of the most beloved characters in Christmas Vacation. Her unique way of speaking and her quirky personality made her stand out among all of the other characters.

In fact, many fans still quote her famous lines to this day:

  • “Is your house on fire, Clark? “
  • “I don’t know what to say, except it’s Christmas and we’re all in misery.

  • “Play ball! “

Conclusion

Aunt Bethany may have only had a few minutes of screen time in Christmas Vacation, but she left a lasting impression on fans. Her famous grace scene is just one example of the many hilarious moments in the movie. And while we may never know exactly what she was trying to say, we can all agree that Aunt Bethany is a true Christmas icon.