History of Christmas Traditions

Christmas History

The Christmas holiday, while intimately connected to the Christian faith, originates long before the time of Christ. Pagan cultures throughout the world frequently held mid-winter celebrations near the solstice on December 22. Winter was a bleak, forsaken season, but by celebrating the shortest day of the year, communities were able to look forward to the renewal and continuation of life in the spring and to celebrate the triumphs over the past year.

In ancient Rome, where winters are far milder, citizens celebrated Saturnalia in honor of the god of agriculture, Saturn, giving thanks for his bounty. Similar celebrations occurred throughout the world.

With the rise of Christianity, winter holiday celebrations became infused with religious meaning. The original celebrations of renewal and triumph remained, however, and today Christmas is considered one of the most widely celebrated holidays.

The History of Christmas Traditions

Individual Christmas traditions got started in different ways, depending on the nature of the tradition and the culture that perpetuated it. Some common traditions, however, have fascinating histories that can enrich any celebration.

Santa Claus

The original Santa Claus was a pious and kindly monk, St. Nicholas, born in Turkey in approximately 280 AD. Throughout his life, St. Nicholas was known as a protector of children and admired for his generosity. Legend has it that he gave away vast amounts of inherited wealth to is based in historical truth.

The modern image of Santa did not appear until 1823, however, when Clement Clarke Moore wrote his iconic “Twas the Night Before Christmas” poem. The “jolly” image of Moore’s Santa was not the same as the more formal, spiritual image found in many European countries, but it was quickly adopted as a wholesome, heartwarming figure to represent Santa Claus.

Today, the image of Santa has evolved away from the jolly elf image Moore portrayed and instead Santa is seen as a kindly grandfather figure who embodies the spirit of kindness and generosity of the Christmas season.

Decorated trees are popular.

Christmas Trees

Christmas trees are among the most popular holiday traditions practiced worldwide. Evergreen trees have always been prized in the winter because they represent the continual growth and bounty of nature, and before people began decorating trees they brought evergreen branches and boughs into their homes to string near windows, mantles, and doorways. The green branches were thought to keep away evil spirits and illness.

The first decorated Christmas trees were brought into homes in the 1500s in Germany. Trees were frequently decorated with strings of popcorn, cranberries, cookies, and other edible items to demonstrate ongoing bounty. Protestant reformer Martin Luther is credited with adding the first lit candles to trees because they reminded him of the sparkling beauty of stars. Electric strings of Christmas lights replaced candles in the late 1880s as a safer, easier, and eventually more affordable alternative.

Christmas Carols

The history of Christmas carols have roots in pagan celebrations, when dancing and singing were popular parts of mid-winter celebrations. Carols were eventually adopted as a religious expression of joy and celebration, becoming ever more elaborate. In 1223, St. Francis of Assisi introduced carols to Christmas mass, making them a staple of the holiday season. With the advent of the radio, many popular carols were composed and spread to listeners with ease, and today’s carols frequently mimic cultural trends and events.

Fruitcake

Fruitcake was originally a holiday treat in ancient Rome. This rich cake infused with nuts, dried fruit, and liqueur is hearty and can be kept without spoiling for long periods of time. This made it perfect for travelers and winter storage, as well as a treat to make ahead of time and have on hand for unexpected visitors. Today, fruitcakes come in many delicious varieties as well as more classic recipes that have the rich, savory tastes of classic cakes.

Christmas Cards

Prior to telephones, text messages, and e-mail, personal letters were the only way for distant friends and family members to communicate. Lengthy letters would often be sent for the holidays, but the first Christmas cards were not created until 1843 in England.

Sir Henry Cole, swamped with holiday preparations, did not have time to compose different letters and instead commissioned renowned artist John Calcott Horsley to create a holiday scene card that could hold a brief personal message. The idea of Christmas cards caught on quickly, and today there is a wide range of spiritual, whimsical, and classic designs available. Millions of cards are mailed during the holiday season each year.

Poinsettias

Candy Cane History

Poinsettias, with their bold red leaves and luxurious foliage, are a popular holiday flower. Using poinsettias for holiday decorations began as a Mexican Christmas tradition, where legend says that poor children would bring poinsettias to honor nativity displays when they could afford no other gift. The flowers were introduced to the United States by Joel R. Poinsett in 1828, during his service as the ambassador to Mexico.

The history of Christmas traditions spans dozens of countries, cultures, and centuries. From the simple act of sending a Christmas greeting card to decorating a holiday tree with tinsel and lights, individuals around the world continue these traditions each year as they share in the joy of the holiday season.