All you need to know about Christmas: questions and fun facts
Ho ho ho! 'Tis the season to be jolly! Christmas is a special time all around the globe. It brings people together with love and happiness.
In this blog, we want to answer all the questions you might have around the topic of Christmas. But also share some cool facts that might surprise you. Get ready to explore the magic of Christmas with us!
Common questions about Christmas tradition
The origins of Christmas
To find the origins of Christmas we have to go back in time for centuries. In fact, Christmas has a fascinating history filled with traditions and folklore that have evolved over the years, making it what we know today.
Christmas finds its roots in ancient winter solstice celebrations. Around that time various cultures celebrated the shortest day of the year with feasting and rituals to welcome the return of longer days and sunlight.
Why is Christmas celebrated on December 25th?
As Christianity spread, the Roman Empire adopted these winter festivities, blending them with Christian beliefs. Slowly Christmas became the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
In the 4th century, Pope Julius I declared December 25th as the official date to celebrate the birth of Christ. Nowadays Christmas is a blend of religion, traditions and universal feeling, introducing customs like decorating trees, exchanging gifts and more.
Fun facts about Christmas traditions
Christmas traditions are a big part of the magical allure surrounding this moment. Discover fascinating and fun facts that will brighten up your holiday season, from mistletoe traditions to decorating trees.
The story behind Christmas trees
Once again the tradition of decorating trees can be traced back to ancient times during the period of the winter solstice. Evergreen trees were a symbol of eternal life and vitality, bringing hope for the return of spring. People would adorn trees with fruits, candles and other decorations to drive away the evil spirits.
During the 16th century the tradition gained popularity in Germany, spreading across Europe and making its way to America a few centuries later. Today Christmas trees are a beloved tradition worldwide that became the symbol of Christmas decorations.
When to start decorating the tree
Traditionally, many families mark the beginning of the Christmas season by setting up their tree and decorations during the last days of November or the beginning of December.
Of course there is no fixed day to start putting out the Christmas decorations but some countries have a traditional suggested day. In Italy and other catholic dominant countries, for example, this day is the 8th december, during the Immaculate conception festivity.
Others like to start decorating their trees already after Halloween, while others prefer to wait until closer to Christmas Eve. Ultimately, the ideal time to start decorating your tree is whenever your heart feels ready to embrace the spirit of the season.
Discover our personalised and original Christmas tree decorations to create a unique Christmas tree:
When to take down the Christmas tree and Christmas decorations
While there are different customs surrounding this tradition, many people take down their Christmas tree and decorations after the twelfth night of Christmas. This day, also known as the Epiphany or Three Kings’ Day, falls on January 6th.
However, some prefer to pack up their Christmas decorations on New Year's Day. It symbolises a fresh start. Others may choose to extend the festive spirit a little longer and delay the de-decking until the end of January.
The Meaning of Mistletoe
The mistletoe is another symbol of Christmas. But how did it become so?
Centuries ago mistletoe was seen as a sacred plant with mystical powers by various cultures. The Druids used it in ceremonies and it was associated with fertility and protection.
As Christianity spread, the tradition of hanging mistletoe during Christmas took on new meaning. But the popular tradition of kissing under the mistletoe is said to have originated from Norse mythology. Over time, this practice transformed into a playful holiday tradition, with couples stealing kisses under the mistletoe.
Tradition of Christmas stockings
The tradition of hanging Christmas stockings by the fireplace or at the end of the bed originates from the story of Saint Nicholas, who dropped bags of gold down the chimney of a poor man's house, which landed in the stockings hung by the fire to dry.
Since then, children around the world have adopted the tradition of hanging stockings on Christmas Eve, hoping to find them filled with small gifts, treats, and surprises from Santa Claus on Christmas morning.
All you need to know about Santa
The iconic figure we now know as Santa Claus has evolved over centuries, becoming the symbol of gift giving and holidays. We have collected some questions and fun facts about this mythical figure.
How did Santa Claus become associated with Christmas?
The roots of Santa Claus can be traced back to Saint Nicholas, a revered Christian bishop known for his acts of kindness and generosity towards the less fortunate. His reputation spread far and wide, becoming connected to Christmas celebrations.
Through the years various traditions, stories, and customs from different cultures contributed to the evolution of Santa Claus, becoming the kind man in his red suit, white beard, and sleigh filled with gifts.
Origins of Santa Claus
Santa Claus is said to reside in the enchanting North Pole. While the exact location may remain a mystery, the spirit of Santa's home at the North Pole brings joy to hearts young and old worldwide. Santa Claus shares his cosy home with Mrs. Claus, alongside a community of hardworking elves.
What are Santa's reindeer's names?
Santa's trusty reindeers play a vital role in spreading the Christmas tradition of gift giving. They pull Santa's sleigh through the night sky, carrying him on his journey to deliver Christmas gifts to children around the world.
Santa’s reindeers names are: Rudolph (the famous red nose reindeer), Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen.
How old is Santa?
The age of Santa Claus is, and probably forever will be, a charming mystery. According to timeless tales and folklore, Santa is said to be as old as time itself.
Did you know that Christmas traditions can vary in different countries? All you need to know about Christmas in 2024 can be read in our dedicated blog.
Discover also more of our Christmas decorations to celebrate the holidays:
