Description
Book SynopsisChristmas is the favourite time of the year for many of us, with present exchanges, food & drink and socialising with friends & family at the top of the agenda. But what are the true origins and meaning of this seemingly inexhaustible celebration? Although most of our current customs only go back a few hundred years – Father Christmas as we know him dressed in red and white much less – there has been a festival at this time in the year for thousands of years. Although these days it is taken to mean the commemoration of the birth of Jesus, the date of December 25 was that of the winter solstice in Roman times, and other cultures have celebrated the darkest winter night for millennia. This book looks at all aspects of what the festive period means for people all over the world, beginning with a history of Christmas that looks at Yule, Nativity and Christmas as well as pagan celebrations.
The embodiment of Christmas, Father Christmas, has a whole chapter, and this jolly character we know and love has a long history, not to mention a big bag of presents! But wait – there's myrrh(!): quotes, jokes, sayings and words of wisdom and fun from around the world, as well as fun facts about how, where, when and why we celebrate – and we look at curious customs from around the world.
SAMPLE FACT:
The North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD, has been tracking Santa's journey around the world since 1958.
Table of ContentsC-history-mas: Most of the current traditions come from the 19th century, but there's been a celebration at the end of the year for as long as history has been reported.
Ho Ho Ho: He's the man with the bag and a very full agenda on December 24th. Let's laugh along with the many incarnations of the big guy.
Myths and Magic: Trees in the house, lights on the roof, turkey and trimmings, nativity sets for some. The traditions around Christmas are many and varied.
Traditions: This chapter looks at the interesting global Christmas customs. Some dress up as Santa, some go to church, some start on Christmas Eve and go on until New Year's Day.
Christmas Wit & Wisdom: A selection of quotes, jokes, lists (festive movies and songs) and more, from the great and the good all over.
Merry Christmas One and All! Christmas sayings to share with your friends, family and neighbours.
