I had 8 months by my first Xmas and I still opted out. I think that was the wisest course for me.
I can't overemphasise the importance of pre-planning tho, BP - not just at Xmas either, but any social situation - be prepared for all those questions, have answers ready...
be prepared for all those feeling of being left out, of resentment, jealousy...and know they're coming from a place, a instinctual non thinking place in us that doesn't want to see us change our life and get in recovery.