Christmas

Christmas Quick Facts - US

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2023 DateDecember 25, 2023
2024 DateDecember 25, 2024

Christmas

Christmas is a widely-celebrated religious and cultural holiday observed by billions of people around the world. Commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, the observance holds great significance for Christians and is marked by traditions such as gift-giving, feasting, and decorations. Annual festive events, church services, and charitable endeavors are essential aspects of this holiday season, fortifying the spirit of goodwill, love, and unity among communities.

The origins of Christmas have foundations in both Christian and pagan traditions dating back thousands of years, incorporating fundamental elements of each. Early European settlers brought these customs to America, where they have evolved over time into the celebrations we see today. For Americans, Christmas holds a place in their hearts as a time for family gatherings, the exchange of gifts, and volunteering for the less fortunate. This unifying aspect transcends religious belief and is celebrated by individuals of varying faiths, anchoring the holiday as an important winter occasion for many Americans.

In America, Christmas is commonly observed on December 25th, accompanied by federal recognition, resulting in a nation-wide holiday. Preparations often begin weeks in advance, with families decorating their homes with lights and ornaments, shopping for gifts, and preparing traditional foods such as turkey, gingerbread, and eggnog. On Christmas Eve, Christians may attend midnight masses, while families gather around the tree to exchange presents. Children write letters to Santa Claus and excitedly anticipate his arrival with gifts during the night. Ultimately, Christmas in America is an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to kindness and compassion towards one another.

Christmas facts & quotes

  • During the 4th Century A.D., Bishop Nicolas of Smyrna was known to be very generous to the poor, especially to children. He was later given the title of Saint Nicholas and is patron saint of children.
  • Constantine the Great named the holiday and set the date for Jesus' birth as being December 25th. This happened in 325 A.D.
  • The Christmas tree is a custom that is believed to have begun in Germany in the 18th century. Candles and decorations that are lit represented the light of Christ in the world.
  • The first Christmas Card was commissioned in 1843 by Sir Henry, designed by artist John Calcott Horsley, and contained the words A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you.
  • Nothing's as mean as giving a little child something useful for Christmas. - Frank Hubbard
  • One of the most glorious messes in the world is the mess created in the living room on Christmas day. Don't clean it up too quickly. - Andy Rooney

Top things to do in the US for Christmas

  • Attend a Christmas Eve service at a local church. Many churches offer midnight mass. Alternately, watch the Pope's annual Christmas eve service broadcast live from the Vatican.
  • Many churches hold pageants for children that involve playing the parts of the nativity scene. Go to one of these events or put up a nativity scene in your home.
  • Sing Christian Christmas carols, such as O Come All Ye Faithful, Silent Night, and Joy to the World.
  • Make Christmas Cookies.
  • Instead of purchasing a cut tree, get a Live tree for Christmas that comes in a burlap root sack. It can then be planted after the holiday, rather than thrown out.

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