Christmas is a time for family, friends, and loved ones. It is a time of year when we are reminded of the things that are most important in life. We take time to reflect on the past year and set our sights on the year ahead. We exchange gifts and shared meals. We decorate our homes and workplaces. We put up Christmas lights and listen to Christmas music. Here, we’ll share some most amazing and fun facts about Christmas that you may not know.
Mistletoe Christmas
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that grows on trees, and is actually a member of the rose family. It is believed that the tradition of hanging mistletoe at Christmastime began in 16th century England. Mistletoe was thought to have mystical powers, and was believed to bring good luck, ward off evil spirits, and to be a symbol of peace.
The Yule Log
The Yule log is a log that is traditionally burned in the fireplace on Christmas Eve. The log is said to represent the log that was used to bring the new-born Jesus Christ into the home.
Christmas Trees
Christmas trees are a symbol of Christmas, and are often decorated with lights and pictures of Santa Claus. Christmas trees are usually put up in homes and public places in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Did you know that the Christmas tree is a relatively new tradition? The first recorded Christmas tree was in Livonia in 1582. The tradition then spread to other parts of Germany before eventually making its way to the rest of Europe and then the world.
The Christmas Pickle
The Christmas pickle is a tradition that is believed to have originated in Germany. The story goes that a struggling family hid a pickle in their Christmas tree, and the next morning the child who found it would get an extra present. Over time, the tradition has evolved, and now the pickle is usually hidden on the tree on Christmas Eve, and the first child to find it gets a prize.
Santa Claus
Santa Claus is a beloved figure all around the world. But did you know that he didn’t always look the way he does now? The modern image of Santa Claus was actually created by Coca-Cola in the 1930s. Prior to that, Santa Claus was often depicted as a gaunt and scary figure.
Christmas Music
Christmas music is one of the most iconic things about the holiday season. However, did you know that some of the most popular Christmas songs were actually written by Jews? “White Christmas”, “Let it Snow”, and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” were all written by Jewish song writers.
Christmas Gifts
Christmas gifts are a huge part of the holiday season. But where did the tradition of giving gifts at Christmas come from? The tradition is actually based on the story of the Three Wise Men, who gave gifts to the baby Jesus.
Christmas Crackers
Christmas crackers are a tradition that dates back to Victorian England. They are paper cylinders that are filled with small gifts, candy, and a paper crown. They are usually pulled open at the dinner table on Christmas Day.
