The Origin of Christmas & Meaningful Christmas Traditions

In the heart of winter, Christmas ignites a warmth that brings us together, reminding us of the love that binds us and the joy of sharing. In this article, let’s talk about the origin of Christmas and how it is often celebrated, what we also called… Christmas traditions! 

Christmas is coming to town (Source: Tyler Delgado - Unsplash)

1. Origin of Christmas

Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is celebrated on December 25th in the Gregorian calendar. The exact date of Jesus' birth is unknown, but the church chose December 25th because it was the date of several pagan festivals that celebrated the winter solstice. 

In Vietnam, churches all over the country begin decorating for Christmas in early or mid-November, with one of the essential items being the Nativity Scene. Not only churches or cathedrals, but also many households in ‘xóm đạo,' which we refer to as towns with many Christians, will decorate their houses with lights and Nativity Scenes. In addition, in major cities, shopping malls, stores, and cafes will begin decorating for Christmas to join in the festive atmosphere of this year-end holiday.

Baby Jesus in nativity scene (Source: Kenny Eliason - Unsplash)

2. Activities that people do on Christmas

1.1 Decorating a house

People decorate a variety of things for Christmas, both inside and outside their homes. The featured items such as Christmas tree, wreaths, garlands, stockings, ornaments, etc. For those who are Catholic, families often decorate with nativity scenes, sparkling and warm with the glow of lights and the baby Jesus in the manger. 

Christmas room (Source: Ekaterina Kasimova - Unsplash)

1.2 Cooking and reunion

Christmas is a time to come together with loved ones and enjoy a festive meal. Traditional Christmas dishes vary from country to country, but some popular items include roasted turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

At CHUS, you can find premium cooking ingredients ready to assist you in creating a delicious Christmas feast.

In Vietnam, Christmas is not considered a public holiday. However, people still celebrate by either cooking at home or going out to eat, as many do. Restaurants and coffee shops during these days are often crowded with people, and they also offer many activities or special deals to attract customers.

Roasted turkey is must-have dishes in Christmas at some country (Source: Claudio Schwarz - Unsplash)

1.3 Send letter and waiting for Santa Claus gift 

Santa Claus, also known as Father Christmas or Kris Kringle, is a legendary figure who is said to deliver presents to children on Christmas Eve. Many children leave milk and cookies out for Santa on Christmas Eve, and they wake up early on Christmas morning to see if he's left them any presents. Children can send the letter to tell Santa about their year, their hopes and dreams, and even their fears. 

Santa Claus with red outfit and white bread (Source: __ drz __ - Unsplash)

1.4 Exchanging gifts

This is one of the most universal Christmas traditions, and it's a way to show loved ones how much you care. Gifts can be anything from small tokens of appreciation to elaborate presents, and they're often wrapped in colorful paper and bows. Here are a few meaningful and suitable gifts for all people: a handwritten card, scented candles, a good book, Christmas tree decorations, etc.

For more unique Christmas gift ideas, CHUS is the perfect place for you to visit! 

You may be interested in: 

7 Handmade Gifts for Christmas 

9 Personalized Gift Ideas To Impress

Unique gifts for your loved ones on Christmas (Source: CHUS)

1.5 Attending church

For Catholics, Christmas is a big holiday, and they attend church services to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Church services may include singing Christmas carols, listening to sermons, and participating in other religious rituals.

St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican on Christmas (Source: Gabriella Clare Marino - Unsplash)

Bottom lines

Christmas always brings a strange sense of excitement to many people, because the image of Christmas is something beautiful, happy, and peaceful. Although Christmas takes place in the winter, people always wish each other a peaceful and warm Christmas. CHUS wishes you and your family a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year!