Everything You Need To Know About Christmas
25 December: The Christmas Day
Christmas is an annual festival that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, a spiritual figure whose teachings serve as the cornerstone of Christianity. The day of Christmas, which is 25 December, is a public holiday in many countries. It is a religious festival for the majority of Christians and a cultural holiday for many non-Christians as well.
Easter used to be the primary celebration in the early years of Christianity. Even though the exact date of his birth is not mentioned in the Bible, it’s believed that Jesus may have been born in the spring. Julius I, the Pope, was the one who decided on December 25, intending to adapt and assimilate the customs of the pagan Saturnalia festival (a holiday in honour of Saturn, the god of agriculture). Initially known as the Feast of the Nativity, Christmas gradually began to be celebrated across all parts of the world.
Contemporary Christmas Celebrations
In addition to being a religious holiday, Christm as is a global cultural phenomenon. It has been observed by people all across the world through rituals and customs that are both secular and religious in origin. Modern holiday traditions include giving presents, completing Advent calendars and wreaths, singing carols, watching Nativity Plays, exchanging Christmas cards, going to church, hosting a special meal, and putting up various Christmas decorations like trees, lights, nativity scenes, garlands, wreaths, and mistletoe.
The Christmas Crib
The making of the Christmas crib typically signifies the start of the holiday season. Christmas eve starts brilliantly with everyone huddling around to arrange gorgeous figurines of baby Jesus, Mary, and Joseph to represent the Nativity scene or the Manger scene that depicts the birth of Jesus Christ and the coming of the Shepherds. In contrast to other Christmas decorations, a nativity set can serve as an important reminder of what the holiday season is all about.
The Myth of Santa Claus
Santa Claus, also known as Father Christmas, or simply Santa, is a legendary figure from Western Christian culture who is said to bring children gifts on Christmas Eve in the late evening and early morning, either toys and candy or nothing at all in stockings that were hung up on their bedside, depending on how good or bad they have been that year.
The real Santa Claus is supposed to have been born as Saint Nicholas roughly 2000 years ago. Although their births are unrelated to those of Jesus or Saint Nicholas, Santa Claus has grown to be a significant aspect of Christmas over time.
Nowadays, close friends and family members take it upon themselves to surprise one another with joyous Christmas greetings and thoughtful gifts. The concept of Christmas gifts itself has grown from chocolates, cakes, wine, personal accessories, and home décor items. Another well-known idea is the anonymous gift-exchanging tradition known as Secret Santa.
Bidding Farewell To Another Year
Christmas has undoubtedly become one of the celebrations we most look forward to. With New Year’s eve following Christmas, every year ends perfectly with everyone around the globe spending time together, celebrating and partying, and exchanging gifts and greetings during the holidays. Consequently, December is accredited with having a magical and festive aura that forms the epitome of celebrations. On Christmas and New Year’s eve, don’t forget to send your loved ones heartwarming tokens of love and gratitude in the form of your valuable time as well as thoughtful gifts.
