What is Christmas?

The Christmas Season

The celebration of the Christmas season has ancient historical roots, but it serves the same purpose today as it has over all those centuries. It is a time to lift our spirits and glimpse what life could be like all year round.

History

Some aspects go back to the Druids as early as 3,000 years ago. They decorated trees around the winter solstice and performed many rituals we might recognize. The Roman Saturnalia coincides with the time of year. That ancient people celebrated successful harvests with a week-long celebration. And, of course, many aspects of Christmas and Hanukkah revolve around the Christian and Jewish religions. Many of the modern customs of the season derive those that grew up in England and Germany in the early to mid-19th century.

But whatever the historical origin of this or that part of the Christmas holiday, it is celebrated in hundreds of countries around the world in similar ways. It is one time of the year when everyone is reminded of the many joyous aspects of life. It is a time for exchanging gifts as a token of affection, for parties to enjoy good friends and family. It is a renewal of good will.

All those are given concrete form by the many ways that people around the world enjoy the holiday.

How it is Celebrated

Some of those involve decorating the home or office inside or out. Stringing lights lend a festive air to objects and the buildings that house them. A tree brings nature indoors, while ornaments give it an artistic touch that only humans can provide. Christmas cards are exchanged to remind others that we're thinking of them and wish them well.

Socializing

At the same time, socializing rises. That often takes the form of a carefully prepared meal with delightful drinks and delicious desserts. Those parties often extend into New Years because, after all, those ancient traditions continue to operate in some ways in modern times. Even when not thought about, the ways of the past continue to influence the present.

The Giving of Gifts

Giving gifts is a big part of the holiday, and for good reason. While it may be the thought that counts, thoughts are made clearer when they're given expression in reality. A thoughtful gift says you know what another wants. That's a sign of caring. It's an act by one person to give up a material value in exchange for another that will bring joy to both. And, after all, joy is non-material even when prompted by an object.

For, everyone will acknowledge that while gifts are delightful, the smile on the face of someone you like is the biggest gift of all. That's still Christmas, even in the modern world.

The ChristmasSeason
Gift Ideas for Dad
Gift Ideas for Mum
Gift Ideas for Your Boyfriend
Gift Ideas for Your Girlfriend
Drink Recipes From Around The World
Meal Recipes From Around The World
Dessert Recipes From Around The World
Selecting A Good Christmas Tree
How to Secure Your Tree
How to make a Christmas Wreath
Make Your Own Christmas Ornaments
Making Christmas Cards
Decorations for Indoors
Decorations for Outdoors
Creating an Outdoor Scene
Lights and Safety
How to Dispose of a Tree
Cleaning Up After Christmas
Getting Ready For The New Year
More ideas about Home Made Decorations
A Christmas Window Box - Perfect Welcome For The Holidays
A Homemade Christmas Surprise
A Kissing Ball Decoration - Everyone Loves
A Visit From The Past - Decor Candles
Candy Canes Are Sweet
Christmas Centerpieces Brighten Any Home
Using Pine Cones at Yuletide
Christmas Home Decor On A Budget
Christmas Themes For Home Decor
Christmas Wreaths Are Not Only For The Front Door
Decorating For That Christmas Party
Decorating The Holiday Meal Table
Easy To Make Christmas Stockings
Going Green For The Holidays
Have The Best Christmas Tree On The Block
Holiday Glazing & Other Outdoor Decorations
Its Just Not Christmas Without A Garland or Two
Lighting The Way To Christmas Cheer
Little Different Christmas Tree Ornaments
Making A Colorful Tree Topper
Scrapping For The Holidays
Simple Christmas Trimmings For Those Lacking In Time
Slowing The Memory Train Down When Decorating For Christmas
Turn Those Christmas Cards Into A Stylish Decoration
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