A middle-aged accountant residing on Hemlock Street. Confronted with the prospect of an empty house during the holidays, he calculates that his previous Christmas cost over $6,000 and yielded little satisfaction. He subsequently books a luxury cruise on the Island Princess, sparking a neighborhood conflict by refusing to participate in local decorating and charity customs.

A socially active woman deeply involved in local charity committees and neighborhood traditions. She relies heavily on her daughter for emotional fulfillment and struggles to adjust to an empty nest. Though initially hesitant to skip the holidays entirely, she grows exhausted by the aggressive demands of her social circle and agrees to the cruise.

A 23-year-old only child who has lived a sheltered life on Hemlock Street. She travels to South America with the Peace Corps to assert her independence and transition into adulthood. Her physical absence acts as the primary catalyst for her parents' radical decision to cancel their holiday plans.

A competitive resident of Hemlock Street who projects an image of wealth. He harbors resentment toward Luthor due to a perceived equality in their incomes. Dealing with a recent salary reduction and his wife's severe illness, he finds petty amusement in the Kranks' public struggles.

The self-appointed neighborhood organizer who holds sway with local figures like the mayor and police chief. He dictates the timeline for mounting inflatable snowmen on roofs and views the Kranks' nonconformity as a direct challenge to community cohesion.

Vic's 12-year-old son, who operates as his father's active deputy on Hemlock Street. He organizes local children to chant on the Kranks' lawn and keeps a strict watch over any unusual activities taking place on the block.

Walt's wife, whose returning cancer casts a somber shadow over her household. Her severe medical prognosis forces the surrounding neighborhood to confront darker realities during the festive season.

A Peruvian man who connects with Blair during her time working in South America. He travels to the United States expecting to participate in a traditional suburban holiday celebration.

A local law enforcement officer participating in an annual holiday fundraising drive. He takes personal offense when denied a donation and fantasizes about catching the offending homeowner speeding.

A police officer who works alongside Treen to collect funds for summer youth programs. He shares his partner's frustration when residents decline to participate in the charity drive.

A resident of Hemlock Street who actively participates in the neighborhood's surveillance network, keeping close tabs on the unusual behavior of his peers.

A father on Hemlock Street who focuses on enjoying family time rather than competing in the local decorating contests.

An employee at Luthor's workplace who expresses verbal envy regarding the Caribbean cruise plan, while admitting he lacks the courage to suggest a similar idea to his own spouse.

A vaguely familiar man Nora encounters while rushing through errands. He appears isolated during the holiday season and eagerly accepts a spontaneous social invitation.