Americans are planning a secret twist in holiday decorating this year, new survey says

Nearly half of Americans are bored with how they celebrate the holidays — and two-thirds are planning a secret twist this year, according to new research.The survey of 2,000 American homeowners with backyards looked at how many respondents are refreshing how they approach the holidays, finding that 44% agree that the typical way they celebrate feels tired.Respondents said the twist involves switching up their traditional holiday menu (29%), while 18% plan to decorate completely differently.Another 15% of respondents are putting a new spin on holidays this year by celebrating in an entirely new location.While the majority are planning on being more social this season (60%), they’re hoping to bring the party to them.Nearly two in three respondents want their home to be the “it place” this year (63%).Commissioned by Range Outdoor Living and conducted by Talker Research, the survey looked at how many Americans are hosting outside this winter and how they’re making it work.Half of those who have ever hosted a holiday party have already had a winter holiday party outside (49%), and a third are planning to take their festivities outside this year (36%).To ensure it’s exactly what they have in mind, 62% want to decorate more elaborately than usual, with the average respondent willing to invest $794 into making their backyard “holiday-ready.”Within their planning for the perfect party, food proves to be most important to get right (35%), but a very close percentage said it’s all about the vibe (33%).According to those surveyed, a holiday event hosted outside would feel special just from a more relaxed atmosphere (27%) and the ability to flow freely between indoor and outdoor spaces (22%).“There’s a reason everyone always ends up gathered around the kitchen island during a party.The kitchen is naturally where people come together, and bringing that experience outdoors creates even more opportunities to connect,” said Cody Fox, CEO of Backyard Discover...