"Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire" kicks off with Homer and Marge scrambling to get to Springfield Elementary's Christmas pageant. They arrive late, just in time to see Lisa's impressive performance as "Tawanga, the Santa Claus of the South Seas," and Bart getting yanked off stage for singing inappropriate lyrics to "Jingle Bells." Back home, the family gets into the Christmas spirit, writing wish lists and decorating the house. Bart wishes for a tattoo, much to Marge's dismay, while Lisa asks for a pony (again!). Homer's attempt at Christmas lights is a dismal failure compared to Ned Flanders' extravagant display, much to the kids' disappointment.The next day, disaster strikes! While Christmas shopping, Bart impulsively gets a tattoo and Marge is forced to spend all of their Christmas savings to have it painfully removed. As if that wasn't bad enough, Homer learns that Mr. Burns has decided to cancel Christmas bonuses for all "unskilled" workers, leaving the Simpsons with no money for presents.Homer tries to keep the bad news from Marge, resorting to buying cheap gifts at a thrift store. Feeling defeated, he heads to Moe's Tavern where he sees Barney dressed as Santa. Barney explains that his Santa gig is paying well, giving Homer the idea to try it himself. We then see Homer go through a hilarious Santa training montage, learning how to "ho-ho-ho" and deal with crying children.Homer finally gets home late, surprising Marge who is entertaining her sisters, Patty and Selma. They notice the Simpsons don't even have a Christmas tree yet, prompting a frustrated Homer to steal one from a tree farm. On Christmas Eve, Homer starts his job as a mall Santa. Bart and Milhouse spot him and, not realizing it's Homer, Bart yanks off his beard! A mortified Homer takes Bart aside and explains the situation, leading to a rare moment of understanding between father and son.Unfortunately, Homer's Santa job doesn't pay as well as he'd hoped. After deductions, he receives a measly $13. Barney, who also worked as a Santa, suggests they go to the dog track to try and win some money. Homer reluctantly agrees and ends up betting all his money on a dog named Santa's Little Helper. The dog loses miserably, but Homer and Bart find him abandoned by his owner. Feeling sorry for the dog, they decide to take him home.The episode ends with Homer returning home empty-handed, ready to confess his failure to provide Christmas presents. But when Bart comes in with Santa's Little Helper, the family is overjoyed. Despite the lack of gifts, the Simpsons have found a new addition to their family and the true spirit of Christmas.

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