National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989), Home Alone (1990), and While You Were Sleeping (1995) sit amongst the most beloved American Christmas movies. 

Set in Chicago at Christmastime, these three mainstream Hollywood comedies have entertained audiences for decades. But have you ever thought about why?

Which characters make you laugh or cry? And what does their social class—lower, middle, or upper—have to do with your reaction? 

Let’s find out in this hour-long talk on class stereotypes in Chicago-based Christmas movies!