Christmas Traditions
In recent years Christmas has lost a bit of the traditional meaning has become more commercialised. However, it is still important to remember the origins of Christmas and Christian traditions associated with Christmas. In the Christian faith, December 25th is a holy day that marks the birth of Jesus, the son of God. Spreading the story of Christmas has been a significant part of the festive period for as long as most of us can remember, nativity plays in particular. The festive nativity plays put on by schools portrays the Christmas story as told in the Bible. Narrating the story of the birth of Jesus in a light-hearted and unique way, which brings friends, family, and communities together and creates an understanding and insight into the beliefs of others.
Some people are not too fussed about a traditional Christmas dinner, instead choosing to have a curry. Others think that the gift-giving element of Christmas has become a bit over the top. Traditions can be lovely, and make you feel part of something special. Making your own traditions is about creating and enjoying things that make the festive period even better. For many, tradition is an essential part of Christmas; religious or not, traditions make Christmas what it is, and brings us a sense of belonging and nostalgia. However, if you are not a fan of existing Christmas traditions, then do not be afraid to make up your own, and do things in whatever way makes you, your family and friends the happiest.
Christmas is generally an exceptionally social event with loved ones. For most families, the day will include the exchanging of gifts and hugs, eating a lot of food, perhaps drinking a little too much. Family traditions are a way of connecting with our past re-establishing relationships. The Christmas dinner is where more of the family traditions start; Grandma making the Christmas cake and being able to lick the spoon, or Granddad doing magic tricks each year. No family Christmas tradition is complete without a favourite traditional festive treat including mince pies and chocolates. Decorations, of course, also play a big part in the day, with a Christmas tree as the central decorative piece. The Christmas tree always features a few Christmas decorations the kids had made from when they were in school, a paper Santa or cut out snowflake, which keeps magically appearing on the tree year after year. The traditions within each family are indeed what makes Christmas special, no matter what tradition it is.
Father Christmas, Saint Nicholas or Santa Claus has long played a big part in Christmas traditions. Nowadays, he is the jolly man with a white beard and red coat, who bring toys to good girls and boys on the night of Christmas Eve. Children are reminded that they must be good to be rewarded with a visit from Father Christmas, which is an excellent way of reminding them about ‘acceptable behaviour’, and it, of course, makes Christmas a magical time of year for them.