Why do people accept gifts on birthdays?

[Anonymous]

I always tell people not to bring gifts and for my sons bday in December I ask them
To bring something to donate, if they want.

I can't believe that it's a must for people to bring gifts to parties. It's too much stuff and kids don't NEED a million presents. I think it gets ridiculous.

[Anonymous]

We don't ask for gifts either, but people still bring them. 

[Anonymous]

If you can't bother with a gift then I prefer you don't show up. Why can't you believe they bring gifts, you are celebrating life.

[atyou]

I love seeing the joy in my kids faces as they open their birthday gifts.

[Anonymous]

because it is fun..

[mamadrama15]

Same here

Quoting atyou:

I love seeing the joy in my kids faces as they open their birthday gifts.

[Anonymous]

I won't attend a bday party for a kid w/o a gift. It's the polite thing to do. If you don't want your kids getting a ton of gifts, don't invite a ton of people.

[mommytoeandb]

Because it would be rude to refuse them? It's not like we ask for them!

[Mrs.Vallo]

Agreed

Quoting mamadrama15:

Same here

Quoting atyou:

I love seeing the joy in my kids faces as they open their birthday gifts.

[Anonymous - Original Poster]

Lol! How ridiculous! I always bring gifts but I NEVER expect them. I know people need to spend their money on their own family and not more crap for ours.

The party is about the people celebrating with you not material items, or at least it should be.

Quoting Anonymous:

If you can't bother with a gift then I prefer you don't show up. Why can't you believe they bring gifts, you are celebrating life.

[illinoismommy83]

My kids are filled with joy when their friend brings them a $5 trinket. It may be just more "stuff" but it is the thought that counts. They tend to treasure it more because they remember that it is from their friend.