Christmas

Christmas Quick Facts - GB

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2023 Date25 December 2023
2024 Date25 December 2024

Christmas

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Christmas in the United Kingdom celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, of Christian faith. The occasion is marked by a wealth of traditions and practices that blend both religious and secular elements. Key aspects of the observance include the sharing of meals, exchange of gifts, and the decoration of homes, particularly with Christmas Trees and lights. Additionally, Church attendance for services is a critical component, typically occurring on Christmas Eve or Morning.

The observance of Christmas in the UK has its roots in the 4th Century when the Roman Empire officially recognised Christianity. It adopted many traditions from pagan winter festivals, such as the Yule log, holly and mistletoe which are still common today. What's distinctive in the UK is the enrichment of Christmas traditions throughout the centuries. The Christmas tree was popularised by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in the 19th century, and the sending of Christmas cards started around the same period. Additionally, Charles Dickens's stories, particular "A Christmas Carol," have significantly impacted the understanding and celebration of the holiday in Britain.

In the United Kingdom, Christmas is observed with a public holiday and widespread closures. Many spend the day with family and friends enjoying a traditional meal that usually includes turkey, roast potatoes, and Christmas pudding. Charity is also a hallmark; many citizens volunteer or donate to help those less fortunate. The Queen's Speech, broadcast on television and radio, has been a UK Christmas tradition since 1932. Christmas Day is celebrated anually on December 25th.

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Christmas facts

  • 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.
  • Originating in the 13th century, mince pies have been a popular British Christmas treat for centuries. Early versions contained minced meat, suet, and fruit, but today's mince pies are mainly made with a mix of dried fruits, spices, and suet or butter.
  • A popular tradition during Christmas dinner is the pulling of Christmas crackers, which are cardboard tubes wrapped in brightly colored paper. The crackers are pulled apart by two people, creating a small explosion and revealing small gifts, festive hats, and jokes.

Top things to do in the UK 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.
  • Pulling Christmas crackers is a UK tradition. These festive cardboard tubes contain a surprise gift, a joke, and a paper crown. They are usually pulled before the Christmas meal.
  • Engage in festive games such as charades, board games, or quizzes based on Christmas trivia.

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