Crystal Nativity Set: The Ultimate Guide to Value, Care, and History
From Swarovski to Waterford, discover the history, value, and proper care of your crystal nativity set. This ultimate guide covers everything you need to know.
Activities and Traditions
Explore the customs, rituals and shared activities that shape Christmas and seasonal celebrations, including their origins, meanings and modern interpretations.
-
-
The History Behind Christmas Stockings: A Complete Guide
Explore the definitive history of the Christmas stocking. This guide covers the legend of St. Nicholas, its surprising pagan origins, and its evolution into a cherished holiday staple.
-
The Soul of a Nation: A Complete Breakdown of Polish Christmas Traditions
Explore the ultimate guide to Polish Christmas traditions. From the first star to the 12-dish Wigilia feast, this article breaks down every custom.
-
An Explosive Idea: The Surprising and Definitive History of the Christmas Cracker
Explore the definitive history of the Christmas cracker, from its origins as a French ‘bon-bon’ to Tom Smith’s ingenious invention of the ‘snap,’ and its evolution into a beloved holiday ritual.
-
The Ultimate Guide to the Feast of Saint Nicholas: More Than Just a Prequel to Christmas
Explore the rich history of the Feast of Saint Nicholas. This definitive guide covers the real Saint Nicholas of Myra, global traditions, and the evolution into Santa Claus.
-
The Christmas Pickle: An Old-World Tradition or a New-World Invention? The Definitive History
Discover the surprising truth behind the Christmas pickle ornament. This definitive guide separates fact from fiction, exploring its supposed German roots, its connection to F.W. Woolworth, and the legends that give it heart.
-
Is a Santa Claus Finland Trip Worth It? A Definitive Guide
The ultimate Christmas trip? We break down the costs, activities, and logistics to help you decide if a Santa Claus Finland trip is worth it for your family.
-
Christmas and Yuletide: A Definitive Guide to Their Shared and Separate Histories
Delve into the shared history of Christmas and Yuletide. Discover the ancient pagan traditions of the solstice and how they were absorbed into the modern holiday.
-
Creating a Live Nativity Scene in Your Community
Unlock the secrets to creating a successful live nativity scene. Our ultimate guide covers everything from historical context to modern-day planning, helping your community bring the Christmas story to life.
-
The History Behind the Mistletoe: A Look at its Origins
Explore the surprising origins of mistletoe, from a sacred panacea in Druidic rituals to a symbol of love in Victorian England.
-
Santa in Germany: More Than Just a Red Suit?
Discover the complex world of German Christmas figures. Learn about Nikolaus, the Christkind, Weihnachtsmann, and their dark companions.
-
The Unconquered Sun: Unraveling the December Pagan Holidays and the True Origins of Christmas
Dive into the rich history of December’s pagan holidays. From the Norse Yule to Rome’s Saturnalia, learn how ancient celebrations shaped the festive season we know today.