I don't have much headcanon in this area, but now that I'm giving it some thought... I wouldn't imagine that Clint would have good memories of the holidays. An abusive alcoholic parent does not happy memories make, and then in the system, particularly in group homes, holidays aren't generally cheerful. With a better brother perhaps, but not with Barney being who he was.

I think Natasha would take her lead from Clint. If he had painful associations, she would go with that. Once the two of them join the Avengers, if the group wanted to celebrate, the two of them might join in. I think it would depend on how they feel about the group then and whether or not Clint is willing to make new memories. If either one of them wants to go with it, I think the other would follow - they go as a team.

I'm looking forward to looking at the recs listed above. :-)

I agree! I think Natasha would most definitely let him have his way on how they view Christmas. From personal experience, one bad memory that surrounds the holiday (even something small and normal and not earth-shaking and cruel like some of his might be) can leave a horrible taste for years and years down the road. Clint had too many bad years to offset anything that Natasha could try to bring to their celebration.

That is not to say that there can't be healing in what the group does. He could enjoy it and be glad that he had participated. Just don't expect him to be first in line for planning it the next year!

I think your and my head canons pretty much coincide ...

and as for the recs, the one where they shoot up the Christmas market -- yeah. That. Sooooo funny, especially if you've ever spent any time (and money) in those. :)

I completely agree with this. I was afraid I was going to be a Debbie Downer, but I personally think they might have some negative associations with it. For some people the holiday can be a reminder of what we don't have, just as much as what we do have. A few years ago my dad passed away, not even around Christmas, but I always spent Christmas eve with him and since then it's really hard to get behind the holiday. Clint and Natasha don't seem like the overly Christmasy people to begin with. But they probably grew up either apathetic to the holiday, or actually not liking it because it was a reminder of the family and childhood they never had. As adults and they become more adjusted I think they might do small things together, but I think it would be gradual and still on a small scale. I definitely agree with the team statement. They would support each other and do what was comfortable for both of them.

but I think it would be gradual and still on a small scale.

Siiiigh, this seems so bittersweet and wonderful and I am in love with this idea :D And I definitely agree, Christmas could make them sad, but they could turn that around, slowly, gradually, and find their own traditions for the holiday.