Peter, a social media strategist residing in the bustling city of Los Angeles, finds himself increasingly frustrated during the holiday season. Every year, as he gathers with his family, the same old question arises: "When are you going to settle down?" This year, however, he hopes to change that narrative by introducing his new boyfriend, Tim, to his family in picturesque New Hampshire. Unfortunately, his excitement is short-lived when he discovers the shocking truth: Tim is already married. The revelation comes to light when Tim's wife employs Peter’s best friend and roommate, Nick, for handyman tasks, leaving Peter devastated and feeling betrayed.
In a desperate attempt to navigate this complex situation, Peter persuades Nick to join him on the trip to New Hampshire, concocting a plan for them to present themselves as a couple. Just as they are about to break the news of their pretend relationship, Peter's mother, Carole, surprises him by arranging a blind date with her spinning instructor, James. Feeling pressured and with Nick's encouragement, Peter reluctantly agrees to go on the date, setting the stage for a series of comedic and heartwarming encounters.
As the family reunion unfolds, Peter's relatives make their entrance, including his father Harold, sisters Lisa and Ashleigh, and his formidable aunt, Sandy, who spearheads the annual children's Christmas pageant. In a private conversation, Harold confides to Nick that he has always believed he and Peter would be the perfect match, commenting that Peter lights up whenever he is around Nick.
Meanwhile, Peter juggles multiple dates with James that include traditional activities like selecting a Christmas tree and skiing adventures. Each outing is filled with joy, yet Peter finds his mind constantly drifting back to Nick, creating inner turmoil between wanting to cherish his family and exploring a potential romance with James. During a conversation with Nick, Peter expresses thoughts of moving back to New Hampshire, which leaves Nick feeling disheartened.
As the holiday spirit continues, Peter receives a frantic call from his boss, announcing the cancellation of their advertising campaign. He is tasked with creating a new initiative highlighting "real people" within a day. Harold, ever the matchmaker, suggests featuring Nick in the campaign, and after some initial hesitation, Nick agrees. The photoshoot becomes a delightful success, further fueling the hopes of Lisa's daughters, Sofia and Daniela, who are also rooting for Peter and Nick to become a real couple. They cleverly manipulate the situation to get them to share a bed, urging Nick to confront his feelings for Peter.
The following day, Sofia and Daniela candidly approach Peter, encouraging him to admit his feelings for Nick, although Peter grapples with the fear of jeopardizing their friendship. The holiday pageant, with the determined help of Peter and Nick, culminates in a delightful success, lifting the spirits of all involved.
After the pageant, Nick takes a leap of faith, confessing his feelings to Peter, who, despite his affection, remains apprehensive about the potential risks. In a twist, Peter conveys his decision to return to Los Angeles, leaving Nick feeling heartbroken. As Peter heads out to celebrate the pageant with James, Nick prepares to leave, taking up one last handyman job to repaint a retiring shop.
In an unexpected turn of events, James confronts Peter, revealing that they are mismatched and emphasizing that Peter truly belongs with Nick. Rushing back, Peter discovers that Nick has already left. However, fate intervenes when Peter spots Nick’s rental car at the shop. In a heartfelt moment, Nick surprises Peter by paying the first six months’ rent for a plant shop, fulfilling Peter's lifelong dream, and solidifying their connection.
Ultimately, fueled by love and unwavering support, Peter confesses his feelings for Nick, marking a transformative moment for both. They share a heartfelt kiss, and on Christmas Day, they joyfully announce their relationship to the entire family, who embraces the news with delight. As they contemplate a shared future in New Hampshire, Peter and Nick step forward hand-in-hand, celebrating the power of love during the season of giving.
