Every year, the holiday season at Saturday Night Live (SNL) comes with a special treat, thanks to the show’s legendary creator, Lorne Michaels. Cast member Bowen Yang recently shared delightful behind-the-scenes insights into the cherished holiday traditions that bring warmth to 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
A Sweet Surprise from Lorne Michaels
In a recent interview with People, Yang revealed that Michaels has a unique way of spreading holiday cheer—by gifting the cast homemade preserves and jams from his personal farm.
“He will give you preserves and jams from his farm, and it’s the most delicious raspberry jam you’ve ever eaten,” Yang enthused. “I look forward to it every year. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. It’s the lovely group gift that he gives everybody, and everyone’s thrilled.”
The thoughtful tradition underscores Michaels’ appreciation for the cast, showing that his “love language is gift-giving,” as Yang put it. Michaels doesn’t stop at holiday gifts either; he often acknowledges cast birthdays with personalized presents.
The Quirky “Garbage Party” Tradition
Beyond the sweet treats, SNL celebrates the holidays with a uniquely chaotic event known as the “garbage party.” Created by former cast members Aidy Bryant and Kate McKinnon, this tradition replaces the typical Secret Santa with a no-holds-barred potluck.
Yang described the event as an unpredictable yet joyful occasion where everyone brings the most random items to share. “People will buy 20 cheeseburgers from Shake Shack, or you bring Jello shots from home, or you bring 30 Funko Pops for people to take home. It’s everyone just culls together their weird, most random contributions essentially,” Yang explained.
Why the name “garbage party”? Yang clarified that it reflects the “chaotic potluck” vibe of the event. “It’s so fun. [It’s] our big tradition that we uphold, and that’s all thanks to Kate and Aidy,” he added.
Continuing the Holiday Cheer
The excitement surrounding SNL’s festive rituals extends to their final live show before the mid-season break. This year, Martin Short hosts the pre-holiday episode, with musical guest Hozier gracing the stage.
SNL’s mix of heartfelt gifts and playful gatherings reflects the camaraderie that keeps the cast and crew bonded, season after season. As the jam jars pile up and the potluck table overflows, one thing remains clear: the holiday spirit at SNL is as unforgettable as the sketches that make the show iconic.
My Name is M Anas. I am a passionate blogger with a knack for sharing insights on technology, autos, Mobile Phone, etc. With a creative flair and a commitment to delivering engaging content, Anas aims to inspire and inform readers with unique perspectives and well-researched articles.
