Christmas is a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, but surprisingly, the earliest followers did not observe his birth annually. Instead, significant focus was placed on the resurrection during Easter. Furthermore, the festive image of Santa Claus is derived from the compassionate acts of a Christian saint, St. Nicholas, celebrated for his generosity during the 4th century.
The custom of celebrating Christmas on December 25 only emerged in the 4th century, and it is believed that this date was chosen to coincide with pagan winter solstice festivals. The transition from a strictly religious observance to a broader cultural celebration began in the early 20th century, turning it into an event marked by family gatherings, gift exchanges, and festive decorations like Christmas trees.
The modern practice of Christmas now spans the globe, with some unique traditions, such as the Japanese custom of eating Kentucky Fried Chicken for Christmas, which originated from a marketing campaign in 1974. Various countries also incorporate their customs, with different figures delivering gifts, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural practices associated with this widely celebrated holiday.
This article takes a closer look at the historical evolution of Christmas and the diverse traditions celebrated around the world today.
