You can always count on David Letterman to observe a few holiday traditions on the last "Late Show" before Christmas.  There are three sure-fire things that will happen on the Wednesday, December 23rd telecast.  So gather the family around the TV and take comfort that there are still some rituals that you can observe year after year.

Every year, bandleader/sidekick will recall his favorite holiday television moment.  This story involves Cher, circa the '70's, when she was a variety show star.  Paul loves to go into detail about the scenario in which Cher sticks her hand in a muff (always guaranteeing giggles from the studio audience.)  The bit ends with a hammy impression of the former Mrs. Bono's version of "Oh, Holy Night."

The next traditional involves former "Murphy Brown" actor Jay Thomas and Dave throwing footballs at the studio's Christmas tree.  This is usually a competition between the guys to see who can knock a meatball off of the top.

Finally, Dave has Darlene Love come out and sing his favorite Christmas song of all time accompanied by  Paul and the CBS Orchestra.  "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) always brings down the house at the Ed Sullivan Theater.

Oh yeah, there's also some actor fella named Alec Baldwin on the episode.  Have a great holiday season!