I am trapped here in blue state (Massachusetts) Hell, but I have had a different experience. I have found several people (store clerks, and even a clerk at the Registry of Motor Vehicles) who wished me the obligatory and flat "happy holiday."
When I responded with a warm "Merry Christmas," they lit up and said "Merry Christmas" back.
That must have been a pleasant surprise! :)
So, Merry Christmas!