Please or to access all these features

AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Aibu to feel annoyed in laws have invited friends over on Christmas day

186 replies

Indiaplain · 21/12/2025 22:08

We are visiting my PiL for Christmas - they live abroad so this happens rarely. My MiL was delighted we are going. However she called DH today and casually mentioned they had also invited some friends over for Christmas Day.

Im feeling annoyed as it changes the whole dynamic. My teenage DC were not looking forward to it anyway (very long journey, not much to do there, very rural plus they are not close to the PiL) - neither was I but thought maybe a good opportunity for them to spend together, and was trying to think positively. Aibu to feel so annoyed about this?

They’re big drinkers as are most of their friends so now I’m thinking it’s going to turn into a big drunken session (MiL has brought a karaoke machine - my DC’s nightmare tbh!).

OP posts:
AmyDuPlantier · 21/12/2025 22:18

It sounds like this will help with the atmosphere tbh. Bored teenagers an grandparents they don’t really know sounds genuinely awful for all involved.

MCF86 · 21/12/2025 22:17

gogomomo2 · 21/12/2025 22:15

They have their own lives, perhaps they always spend Christmas with them

which is fine, but don't invite your grandchildren you hardly see at the same time, and only mention additional guests when all arrangements are made.

MotherOfCrocodiles · 21/12/2025 22:17

Odd first comment, of course they can invite who they like to their house but it is rude to invite people and then, once they e committed to come (long way, expensive) change the plan

OP is it normal where they live to socialise on Christmas Day? Maybe they are wanting to show off the grandkids to their friends?

Id be horrified too but it might be that they want the friends to meet you rather than they are deprioritising your family

Radiatorvalves · 21/12/2025 22:17

When our kids were young teens we stated with some old friends who liked a drink. The kids didn’t want to go…. But had a fantastic time. It may not be so bad in reality…

StCuntyMcCunterson · 21/12/2025 22:17

It could be fun but yes, definitely changed dynamic and if you’re kids are anything like mine, will leave them feeling uneasy. Are you staying with them or can vacate to the hotel when it gets bad?

Swiftie1878 · 21/12/2025 22:16

The friends may be lovely and you may have lots of fun.
Your thought process is controlling. Chill out. Their house, they can invite who they like. Show some humility, be grateful to be included and have a good time!

ResusciAnnie · 21/12/2025 22:16

YANBU I’d fucking hate that.

gogomomo2 · 21/12/2025 22:15

They have their own lives, perhaps they always spend Christmas with them

Christmaseree · 21/12/2025 22:14

This would definitely annoy me.

doodleygirl · 21/12/2025 22:14

Maybe it will be fun

FionnulaTheCooler · 21/12/2025 22:12

I'm sure your teenagers can cope for one day. Your PIL can invite who they want to their own house.

Swipe left for the next trending thread