The month of December is filled with joy and excitement as people around the world celebrate different holidays. This month is known for its festive spirit and cultural significance, and it brings people together from different backgrounds and religions to celebrate and enjoy the holiday season. In this article, we will explore the most popular holidays in December, their history, and how people celebrate them.
1. Christmas Day (December 25th)
Christmas Day is one of the most popular holidays celebrated in December. It is a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, and it is observed by Christians all around the world. The day is marked by attending church services, exchanging gifts, and spending time with family and friends. The tradition of decorating Christmas trees and houses with lights and ornaments is also very popular during this holiday. discoverycentre
2. Hanukkah (December 10th – December 18th)
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday that is celebrated for eight days in December. The holiday commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt. During Hanukkah, Jews light candles on a menorah, eat traditional foods such as latkes and sufganiyot, and exchange gifts.
3. Kwanzaa (December 26th – January 1st)
Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday that celebrates African culture and heritage. It was created in 1966 by Maulana Karenga and is observed from December 26th to January 1st. During Kwanzaa, families gather to light candles on a kinara, exchange gifts, and share a meal. The seven principles of Kwanzaa, including unity, self-determination, and faith, are also emphasized during the holiday.
4. Boxing Day (December 26th)
Boxing Day is a holiday that is celebrated in the United Kingdom, Canada, and some other countries. It originated as a day when servants and tradespeople would receive gifts or “boxes” from their employers, but today it is celebrated as a day for shopping and spending time with family and friends.
5. New Year’s Eve (December 31st)
New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate the end of the year and the beginning of a new one. It is a time for reflection and setting resolutions for the upcoming year. Many people celebrate by attending parties, watching fireworks, and counting down to midnight.
6. Las Posadas (December 16th – December 24th)
Las Posadas is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. The holiday is observed from December 16th to December 24th, and it involves a reenactment of the journey with processions and singing. The holiday also features traditional foods such as tamales and ponche.
7. St. Lucia Day (December 13th)
St. Lucia Day is a Swedish holiday that is celebrated on December 13th. It is a festival of lights that marks the beginning of the Christmas season. The holiday is named after St. Lucia, a Christian martyr who brought food and aid to persecuted Christians in the catacombs of Rome. The holiday is celebrated with processions, singing, and traditional foods such as saffron buns.
8. Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (December 12th)
The Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe is a Mexican holiday that is celebrated on December 12th. It commemorates the appearance of the Virgin Mary