It was expected that Naruto would love Christmas. He 'just seemed the type,' to quote Sakura. But those who knew him (or knew anything about his past) expected him to hate it. It made sense that someone with no family would hate Christmas. Sasuke certainly did. But then, he hates every holiday, so no surprise there.
In truth, Naruto loves Christmas. He loves the snow, the lights, the decorations, the way everyone just seems extra nice as soon as December hits. But most of all, Naruto loves giving.
Naruto takes special care to get everyone really good presents. The ones they really want. No matter how expensive it is. The ones that they'll actually use, not some cheap thing they use once then keep around merely for appearance. So on Christmas Eve when he seeks everyone out with their gifts tucked under his arm, Naruto is absolutely positive they'll love them.
Naruto loves to see people's reactions. He loves the way Sakura's eyes twinkle when they see her gift, before falling as she stammers that no, she didn't get him anything. But that's okay. Because this is Christmas, and he doesn't need anything, not really. So he waves it off with a joke and a smile, turning around and leaving, instead of burdening her with his presence like he normally would.
He loves the way Sasuke just scoffs, pretending that he doesn't care. But Naruto saw him tuck his present safely into his coat pocket, to be taken out and placed carefully by his bedside with the birthday gift Naruto gave him last year, though no amount of torture would get Sasuke to admit it.
He loves how Kakashi-sensei's single visible eye widens in surprise before curving in happiness, as his hand reaches down to ruffle Naruto's hair in an almost fatherly gesture, before he even opens the present. And when he does Kakashi glomps him, knocking the breath from his lungs, impressed the normally stupid blonde was perceptive enough to find just the right thing.
He really loves Iruka-sensei's exuberant hug and fevered thanks. And the promise to buy him as much ramen as he could eat (a dangerous promise to make, as most know). Naruto knows Iruka can't afford anything else, since he's only a teacher. But that's okay. An excuse to spend time with the man who's the closest thing to a father he's ever had is the best gift Naruto can think of.
So, when Naruto's heading home, away from the Christmas parties he wasn't invited too, and the bright lights and happy families all gathered around their bright Christmas trees. When he's walking back to his cold, dark house devoid of any decorations or trees, to spend tomorrow all alone while everyone else is surrounded by the people they love, Naruto smiles and hums a small tune. Because to Naruto, Christmas has nothing to do with parties or families, it has to do with giving. Because Naruto loves giving. For him, the fact that he made his precious people happy is all that he needs.
For him, that's enough. For Naruto, that's Christmas, and he can't recall ever being happier.
Merry Christmas, everybody! Happy Chanukah, Happy Kwanzaa, and all those festive things. A different take of Naruto on Christmas. –Grins- Because, as cheesy as it is, the best thing about Christmas is giving people stuff. I now go to play in the 6-inch deep snow outside. Tootles! Oh, and don't forget to review!