My husband never got into Christmas or any holidays. I just went along and did my thing, and he would kid me and call me his little "elf" because I just went all out. I never expected him to trim the tree, or drive and look at the lights or anything.
I've noticed that if I didn't do something that I traditionally do, he would say something about how he missed it. This past year, he put up the outside lights the Monday after Thanksgiving so they would be up and on when I got home from work to surprise me. And usually I would turn off the Christmas lights inside and out about 10 pm. This year he wanted the lights on all night so he could come out into the living room and enjoy them (he works at night). Well worth the extra $20 electric bill to me.
I don't know how to explain it very well, but because I didn't nag him or force him to partake in anything, he was able to just absorb a bit of "elf" himself, especially this year. We even went Christmas shopping together which we've never done before. A magical evening, dinner at the beach and shopping at the little shops along the boardwalk.
Let me explain that we are older, my kids are adults, and our only family is far away, 1 brother on his side and 1 brother and 2 sisters on my side, and assorted nieces & nephews. So we don't have a lot of obligations, or small children to worry about. Plus I am a control freak and DH knows I like things done a certain way, lol, especially Christmas traditions. I think if we were surrounded by family or small children, I would certainly want him to be a Christmas nut too.
Kim - Yes, let's brain storm! Holiday food is so important to me, I make the special menus (for every little holiday too, lol) and just enjoy planning and making it special. I never know if we will be having extra guests until the last minute too (friends who have nowhere to go) so I always make too much regardless.
I've enjoyed reading everyone's observations. Really good points and ideas.