10 Unknown Facts About Christmas You Must Know

Christian Celebration

Christmas is a Christian festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, believed to be the son of God. The celebration is traditionally observed on December 25, as designated by the Roman Catholic Church.

Varied Christmas Dates

Discover that Christmas is not universally celebrated on the same day, especially among Orthodox Christians in countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Romania, where Christmas Day falls on January 7.

Origins of Christmas

The etymology of the term Christmas from the Old English phrase Cristes maesse meaning Christs mass. Explore the historical use of Xmas, dating back to the 16th century, representing the Greek letter Chi in Christos.

Victorian Christmas Traditions

The Victorian-era origins of festive traditions in the UK, including Christmas cards, gift-giving, crackers, and culinary delights such as mince pies and roast turkey, inspired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.

Evolution Of Christmas Trees

The history of Christmas trees, popularised in Victorian Britain but with roots in 16th-century Germany. The ancient origins of decorating evergreen trees as symbols of everlasting life.

Norwegian Gift To London

The annual tradition of Norway gifting a towering Christmas tree to Londons Trafalgar Square, symbolising gratitude for the UKs support during World War II.

Origin Of Santa Claus

The origin of the name Santa Claus, derived from Sinterklaas in Dutch, referring to Saint Nicholas. The legend of Santa Claus delivering presents on Christmas Eve also hails from Norwegian culture.

Global Christmas Characters

International Christmas characters, such as La Befana, a kind witch delivering toys in Italy, and the Yule Lads, mischievous trolls leaving gifts or potatoes in Iceland.

Origin Of Jingle Bells

The song Jingle Bells was initially written in 1850 as One Horse Open Sleigh for the American holiday of Thanksgiving.

Christmas Ban

A historical period in 1644 when Christmas celebrations were banned in England and later in the English Colonies in America due to concerns about forgetting the religious significance. The ban was lifted almost 20 years later.