For many, it’s a hallowed holiday tradition—tugging Christmas crackers apart, regaling family members with the enclosed lame jokes and adorning oneself with the ever-popular tissue paper crown. Here, a roundup of festive favours, complete with a breakdown of their prizes and crackability.

The goods: Aside from being undeniably adorable, each of these babies contains a small silver plated charm—a fish, a heart, a key—perfect for schoolgirls as well as boyfriends who have left their gift-giving to the last minute.
Popping power: Not bad for a little guy.
How much: $10 for box of nine.
Where to buy: Pier 1, 221 Yonge St. (at Shuter), 416-363-2131.

The goods: Classic English manufacturer Robin Reed sticks to the basics (riddles and the ever-so-Christmassy nail clippers), with a golden crepe paper crown that’s somewhat more dignified than the standard rainbow-coloured models.
Popping power: Practically frightening.
How much: $34.99 for box of 12.
Where to buy: Flatiron’s Christmas Market, 51 Front St. E. (at Church), 416-365-1506; 95 Maitland St. (at Church), 416-968-9274

The goods: Finger puppets featuring barnyard animals liven up any party, and are a great way to occupy naughty kids (or even naughtier adults).
Popping power: Barely loud enough to scare the little ones.
How much: $19.99 for box of six.
Where to buy: The Little Party Shop, 2566 Yonge St. (at Briar Hill), 416-487-7855.

The goods: Perfect for the posh party-goer. Nostalgic prizes (such as magnifying glasses and silver picture frames) recall the Dickensian Christmas era. Beware of stick-to-your-clothing sparkles.
Popping power: A big bang.
How much: $35.99 for box of six.
Where to buy: The Little Party Shop, 2566 Yonge St. (at Briar Hill), 416-487-7855.

The goods: A younger, hipper look on the outside doesn’t necessarily mean the prizes inside—including a 2006 calendar pen—are cutting edge. Talk about re-gifting!
Popping power: The top pop of the bunch. Earplugs are a must.
How much: $17.99 for a box of 15.
Where to buy: Loblaws, 650 Dupont St. (at Christie), 416-588-4881, plus 13 other locations.

The goods: Silver and gold make a classy Christmas statement, but the prizes inside— yet more key chains and jigsaw puzzles—are not quite as precious.
Popping power: Loud enough to drown out pesky carollers.
How much: $10 for box of eight.
Where to buy: Indigo, Eaton Centre, 220 Yonge St. (at Dundas), 416-591-3622, plus four other locations.