Col,
Here in the USA, we have the Hallmark channel. I'm sorry (for more than one reason) to have to inform you that with the movies produced for that particular channel, it's almost NEVER over (except when they do Easter stories just for a break from the snow scenes.) And OF COURSE it is one of my wife's favorite channel. Ah, the things we endure for our loved ones, eh?
There actually is a "family" element to Christmas. However, Col, I have to agree that too many big businesses have done their best to exploit and hijack the season. I can remember when it was became so totally overcommercialized. But that has been a long time ago.
I am on record in another sub-forum as being atheist. I perfectly understand your con-man reference. Doesn't stop me from thinking of the Bible as a set of allegories (no historical facts required) to present cultural beliefs in the context of stories to be told to illustrate said beliefs. That is, of course, the true purpose of allegory.
Still, at the risk of getting a "Humbug" from an old humbug like you, Merry Christmas, Col.