Christmas

Christmas is a combination of various practices started over many years and many countries. The celebrations include traditions handed down through the generations. Interpretations of these are moulded and blended with influences from the commercialism that has become such a big part of our Christmas festivities. So now each family celebrates Christmas in their own way.

Many Christmas practices originated from historic observances of the winter solstice which occurs a few days before Christmas. One of the key elements in celebrations of the winter solstice is fire. Fire is the earthly manifestation of the sun, the source of light, warmth and life-giving energy. Evergreens such as mistletoe, holly and ivy, being evergreen, were a sign against the winter and promised the return of the sun. People celebrated the solstice for the turn to longer days. Many cultures developed these solstice celebrations. People liked getting together in warm houses decked with evergreens to toast each other, feast, sing and to look forward hopefully to better, longer days.

These celebrations started in the northern hemisphere, obviously, as at the same time the southern hemisphere is looking to celebrate the longest day and a change to heading to the winter season...