Discover the history and sparkling traditions of this joyful holiday!
As the year reaches its final weeks, the world begins to glow with twinkling lights, cheerful music, yummy treats, and lots of excitement. Yes… Christmas is on the way!
But how much do you really know about this special season?
Here are 10 fun and easy-to-understand facts to help kids learn more about Christmas!
1. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus
Christmas is a Christian festival that honors the birth of Jesus Christ. Today, most people celebrate it on December 25, although the exact date of Jesus’ birth is not known. The church chose this day long ago as a special time for celebration.
Christmas Nativity Coloring & Activity Book for Kids
2. Not every country celebrates on the same day
While many people mark Christmas on December 25, some Orthodox Christian communities such as those in Russia, Ukraine, and Romania celebrate on January 7. Different traditions make the holiday unique around the world!
3. The word "Christmas" has a long history
The name Christmas comes from the Old English phrase Cristes maesse, meaning “Christ’s Mass.”
You may also see the word Xmas. Even though it looks modern, it has been used since the 1500s. The “X” represents the Greek letter “Chi,” the first letter of the Greek word for Christ.
4. Many modern Christmas traditions began in the Victorian era
Christmas cards, gift-giving, Christmas crackers, and festive foods such as roast turkey and mince pies became popular in the 1800s, especially in the United Kingdom.
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert loved Christmas and helped shape many traditions families use today.
5. Christmas trees first became popular in Germany
The idea of decorating evergreen trees during winter began in 16th-century Germany. Early Christmas trees were adorned with fruits, nuts, candles, and handmade decorations.
Some historians believe the tradition grew from ancient cultures that used evergreen plants as symbols of life and hope in winter.
6. Norway sends a gift tree to the UK every year
Each year, the city of Oslo in Norway sends a tall, beautiful Christmas tree to Trafalgar Square in London.
This gift thanks the UK for its support during World War II and is a lovely example of international friendship.
The Twelve Days of Christmas Hardcover – Picture Book, October 17, 2017
7. Santa Claus gets his name from Saint Nicholas
The name Santa Claus comes from the Dutch word Sinterklaas, which means Saint Nicholas.
Saint Nicholas was a kind and generous Christian bishop from the 4th century who later became known as the patron saint of children.
8. Different countries have different Christmas characters
Around the world, Christmas characters appear in many fun forms.
In Italy, a friendly witch called La Befana flies on a broomstick delivering gifts.
In Iceland, children leave shoes by the window for 13 Yule Lads, playful troll-like figures who give sweets or sometimes a rotten potato.
9. “Jingle Bells” was not originally a Christmas song
Although it’s one of the most famous Christmas tunes, Jingle Bells was first written for Thanksgiving in 1850.
Its original title was One Horse Open Sleigh.
10. Christmas was once banned in England
Believe it or not, in the mid-1600s, Christmas celebrations were made illegal in England.
Leaders at the time felt the holiday had become too noisy and “unreligious.”
People continued celebrating secretly until the ban was lifted almost 20 years later.
FAQ
1. Why do we put up Christmas trees?
Christmas trees remind people of life and hope in winter. Evergreen trees stay green all year, so they became a symbol of strength and joy. Over time, families began decorating them for fun.
2. Is Santa Claus real?
Santa is inspired by Saint Nicholas, a real historical figure known for kindness. Today, Santa represents the spirit of giving and love during the holiday season.
3. Why do some countries celebrate on different days?
Different Christian traditions use different old calendars. That’s why Western and Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas on separate dates.
4. Why do people give gifts at Christmas?
Gift-giving reminds people of generosity and care just like the wise men brought gifts to baby Jesus and Saint Nicholas gave gifts to children.
5. Are Christmas traditions the same everywhere?
No. Every culture adds its own fun customs, foods, and characters. That’s part of what makes Christmas so interesting.
