As a teacher preparing a lesson I came across a most interesting paragraph. I record a paraphrased copy here: The origins of Christmas customs Since pre-Christian times people have held a winter festival. This was an opportunity to celebrate the end of winter and the coming of spring. Many of our customs and traditions date back to these times but it was not until the 4th century A.D. that Christmas was officially established. Rather than trying to abolish the pagan customs, the church simply adapted them, applying its own meaning to the old rituals.
Apparently, there is more to Christmas than meets the eye! I turned to some studies I made a few years ago taken mostly from a book called The Two Babylons by Alexander Hislop. I have pasted some pages from this book for fuller readings from the various links in the text. Hislop studied this subject in depth and his references can be checked for authenticity by any student who wishes to do so.

Many of our traditions during this period are, sadly, from pagan origins.
The decoration of houses with evergreens – a symbol of everlasting life – at Christmas is of pagan origin. In the 16th century it was believed that they would bring good luck during the winter months. Mistletoe was an important part of the Druid tradition and was often associated with human sacrifice. The tradition of the yule log also dates from Pagan times. The custom was that part of the log was kept until the following year; this kept the evil spirits away. “Yule” is the Chaldean (Babylonian) name for infant or little child. The celebration of the birth of Messiah, our Saviour, completely lost under the pile of selfish traditions and treats for ourselves. The tunes – if not the words – of some of our most popular carols were written by people in the 17th Century, including Good King Wenceslas, Ding Dong Merrily on High and While Shepherds Watched. Initially they were not religious hymns but everyday songs passed down through the generations. Games have always been popular during the Christmas celebrations. In many homes, especially upper class homes, a Lord of Misrule was appointed to lead the company in fun and games during the holiday. It was his responsibility to ensure that everybody had a good time. Many of the games we enjoy today date back to his period, such as Hide and Seek, Blind Man’s Bluff and Hunt the Slipper. Games such as Charades and Squeak Piggy Squeak were greatly enjoyed.
A central part of Christmas Day has always been the Christmas Dinner where all the family come together to celebrate. Many of the things we most love at Christmas started in the Victorian age, such as sending cards, and the invention of the Christmas cracker. The picture of a fat, jolly Father Christmas or Santa Claus, dates from Victorian times. The Christmas tree became popular, as did gift shopping in big stores. In England, the Boxing Day holiday also started in the nineteenth century. And so it goes on, and on and on! More and more added to the festivities through the generations in order that we may ‘enjoy ourselves’ as the years come and go.

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