Christmas Day: History, Significance, Traditions, and Celebrations

When and why is Christmas Day celebrated around the world? 

By Intimate Viewpoint

Introduction

Christmas Day is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the world. It is observed every year on 25th December to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity. Though it is primarily a religious festival, Christmas has become a global cultural celebration enjoyed by people of different religions, cultures, and nationalities. The day symbolizes love, peace, joy, generosity, and hope.

Historical Background of Christmas

Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, more than 2,000 years ago. According to the Bible, Jesus was born to Virgin Mary and Joseph in a humble manger. Angels announced his birth, and three wise men (Magi) traveled from the East to worship him, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

Although the exact date of Jesus’ birth is not mentioned in the Bible, 25th December was officially chosen by early Christians in the 4th century AD. One reason for selecting this date was to coincide with Roman winter festivals like Saturnalia, making it easier for Christianity to spread.

Religious Significance of Christmas

For Christians, Christmas is a sacred occasion that celebrates the incarnation of God in human form. Jesus Christ is believed to be the Son of God and the Saviour of humanity, sent to guide people toward love, forgiveness, and righteousness.

Special midnight church services, known as Midnight Mass, are held on Christmas Eve. Churches are beautifully decorated, and passages from the Bible describing the birth of Christ are read aloud. Hymns and carols praising Jesus are sung with devotion.

Why is Christmas Called “Christmas”?

The word “Christmas” comes from “Christ’s Mass”, meaning the special church service held in honor of Jesus Christ. Over time, the term evolved into “Christmas,” which is now universally used.

Christmas Traditions and Customs

1. Christmas Tree

One of the most popular symbols of Christmas is the Christmas tree, usually an evergreen pine or fir tree. It is decorated with lights, ornaments, stars, bells, and tinsel. The evergreen tree represents eternal life.

2. Santa Claus

Santa Claus, also known as Saint Nicholas, is a legendary figure who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve. He is depicted as a joyful old man wearing a red suit, white beard, and carrying a sack of gifts. Children believe that Santa travels in a sleigh pulled by reindeer.

3. Exchange of Gifts

Exchanging gifts is an important Christmas tradition. It symbolizes the gifts given to baby Jesus by the wise men and promotes the spirit of sharing and generosity.

4. Christmas Carols

Carols are religious and joyful songs sung during the Christmas season. Popular carols include “Silent Night,” “Jingle Bells,” and “O Holy Night.” Groups of singers often go from house to house spreading festive cheer.

5. Decorations

Homes, streets, shops, and churches are decorated with lights, stars, wreaths, bells, and nativity scenes depicting the birth of Jesus.

Christmas Food and Festive Meals

Christmas celebrations are incomplete without special food. Traditional dishes vary across countries, but common items include:

Plum cake

Cookies and pastries

Roast turkey or chicken

Puddings and chocolates

Families come together to enjoy a grand feast, strengthening bonds of love and unity.

Christmas Celebrations Around the World

United States & Europe: Celebrations include gift exchanges, Santa Claus traditions, and family dinners.

United Kingdom: Christmas crackers, roast dinner, and royal messages are common.

India: In states like Goa, Kerala, and the North-East, Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Churches are decorated, midnight masses are held, and people exchange sweets and greetings.

Australia: Christmas is celebrated during summer, often with outdoor barbecues and beach gatherings.

Christmas is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ, who is regarded by Christians as the Son of God and the Saviour of humanity.

Religious reason

According to the Bible, Jesus was born in Bethlehem to Virgin Mary. His birth is believed to be the fulfillment of divine promises and a turning point in human history, bringing a message of love, peace, forgiveness, and salvation. Christians celebrate Christmas as a joyful remembrance of this sacred event.

Why on 25 December?

The Bible does not mention an exact date for Jesus’ birth. However, 25 December was chosen by the early Christian Church around the 4th century AD, possibly to coincide with existing winter festivals and to symbolise light overcoming darkness, as days begin to grow longer after this period.

Cultural and social significance

Over time, Christmas has also become a global cultural festival celebrated by people of many faiths. It represents:

Love and kindness

Sharing and charity

Family togetherness

Hope and joy

Traditions associated with Christmas

Decorating Christmas trees

Exchanging gifts

Singing carols

Attending church services

Celebrating with family meals

In simple words

Christmas is celebrated to remember the birth of Jesus Christ and to spread the values he taught—love, compassion, peace, and goodwill toward all.

Christmas in Modern Times

In the modern world, Christmas has become both a religious and commercial festival. Shopping malls, markets, and online platforms offer special discounts. However, the true essence of Christmas lies not in material gifts but in kindness, compassion, and goodwill toward all.

Message and Moral of Christmas

Christmas teaches important values such as:

Love and forgiveness

Helping the poor and needy

Peace and harmony

Selflessness and humility

Jesus Christ’s life and teachings encourage people to live a life of service and morality.

Conclusion

Christmas Day is a festival that spreads happiness and hope across the globe. It brings people together, strengthens family bonds, and reminds humanity of the importance of love and kindness. Beyond decorations and celebrations, Christmas carries a powerful message of peace, compassion, and unity, making it one of the most meaningful festivals in the world.