Christmas is marked each year by millions of people across the world. For many, it is a time linked with faith, family and tradition. While the celebration is widely recognised, its history and customs are often misunderstood. Here are ten key facts that explain how Christmas developed and how it is observed today.
Christmas is a Christian festival that marks the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe was the son of God. It is widely celebrated on 25 December. This date was chosen by the Roman Catholic Church, although there is no historical record that confirms the exact day Jesus was born. Over time, 25 December became accepted across much of the Christian world.
Not all Christians celebrate Christmas on the same day. In countries with large Orthodox Christian populations, including Russia, Christmas falls on 7 January. This difference exists because some Orthodox churches follow the Julian calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar used in much of the world today. Some Greek Orthodox Christians also mark Christmas on 7 January.
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The word ‘Christmas’ comes from the Old English phrase Cristes maesse, meaning ‘Christ’s mass’. The term ‘Xmas’ is often thought to be modern, but it dates back to the 16th century. The ‘X’ represents the Greek letter ‘Chi’, the first letter in the Greek word for Christ, Χριστός, pronounced ‘Christos’.
Many Christmas traditions in the UK became established during the Victorian period. These include the sending of Christmas cards, exchanging gifts and pulling crackers. Foods such as mince pies and roast turkey also became linked with the season during this time. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert played a role in supporting these customs, which later spread across British society.
Christmas trees also became common in Britain during the Victorian era. The tradition began earlier in 16th century Germany, where people decorated fir trees with fruit and nuts. Later, sweets, paper shapes and candles were added. Historians believe the practice may trace back further, to Roman and Ancient Egyptian use of evergreen plants and garlands as symbols of life.
Each year, Norway sends a Christmas tree to the UK. The tree is placed in Trafalgar Square in London and decorated with lights. It stands about 20 metres tall. The tree is given as thanks for British support to Norway during World War II, and the tradition has continued since 1947.
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Father Christmas is one of the most recognised figures of the season. The name Santa Claus comes from the Dutch word Sinterklaas, meaning Saint Nicholas. Saint Nicholas was a Christian bishop who lived in the 4th century. He became known for giving to those in need, and he later became the patron saint of children.
Christmas figures differ across cultures. In Italy, folklore tells of La Befana, a witch who delivers gifts to children. In Iceland, children place shoes by windows for the Yule Lads, a group of 13 figures. Children who behave well receive sweets, while others may find a rotten potato in their shoe.
One of the most widely known songs linked to the season is Jingle Bells. Despite its association with Christmas, the song does not mention Christmas, Jesus or Santa Claus. It was written in 1850 under the title One Horse Open Sleigh and was first linked to Thanksgiving in the United States.
Christmas has not always been accepted. In 1644, celebrations were banned in England. Similar laws followed in English colonies in America. Authorities at the time believed the religious meaning of Christmas had been lost. Despite the ban, some people continued to mark the day in private. The restrictions were lifted almost 20 years later.
Together, these facts show that Christmas is shaped by belief, history and shared practice. Across time and place, the festival has changed, yet it continues to hold meaning for people around the world.
