Immigrate to the UK to learn about British customs and lifestyle: The most significant holiday in the West, Christmas, is approaching, and more and more Chinese people are beginning to celebrate Christmas. However, while following this trend, let's explore the origins and traditions behind it.
Origins of Christmas
December 25 was established by Roman Emperor Aurelian in 274 AD as the official celebration of the Roman Empire for the birthday of the Syrian sun god Sol Invictus and the Iranian sun god Mithras. This festival continued until Christianity was established as the state religion, at which point it was prohibited. The worship of the Syrian sun god was first introduced to the Roman Empire by King Marcus Antoninus and replaced the chief god Jupiter, becoming a national holiday during the reign of Aurelian. This day was celebrated as the rebirth or return of the sun, as it marked the shortest day of the year, akin to the winter solstice in the Roman calendar from a Chinese perspective.
After this day, the days would gradually become longer, and pagan worshippers of the sun god regarded it as the hope of spring and the beginning of the resurgence of life. Furthermore, the day celebrating the return of the sun is recognized as an important holiday across various cultures worldwide. In cultures that have a sun god, this day has become the birthday of the sun personified. The early Christian church sought to utilize this holiday and attempted to Christianize pagan customs, designating the birth of Jesus on this day. Therefore, apart from the imposed religious significance, Christmas day essentially corresponds to the Western "winter solstice."
Preparations for the Holiday
In preparation for this holiday, many British families often start getting ready as early as October. Walking down the streets, you will find various Christmas lights hung everywhere, and families have painted the exterior of their homes, with many even redecorating their houses. Brightly polished window panes are often adorned with: Merry Christmas!
As December arrives, people start to get busy purchasing various holiday items, Christmas foods, and gifts. In every British household, there are three essential elements for Christmas: a Christmas tree topped with a large star; a plump turkey for the Christmas dinner; and beautifully wrapped Christmas gifts. The moment when the entire family gathers around the Christmas tree to unwrap gifts is the highlight of Christmas for all British families. For the British, Christmas is the most festive and significant day of the year.
Christmas Eve
On Christmas Eve, December 24, the whole family generally comes together for a Christmas dinner.
The British place great importance on food during Christmas, including roasted pork, turkey, Christmas pudding, and mince pies. Every family member receives a gift, even servants. All gifts are distributed on Christmas morning. Some carolers go door to door singing songs to spread good cheer and may be invited in by the hosts for refreshments or given small gifts.
An interesting tradition among the British during Christmas is the Christingle ceremony held in churches specifically for children. Christingle means "light of Christ," and is intended to celebrate the light of Jesus illuminating the world. Children create their own "light of Jesus" using oranges, raisins, candles, red ribbons, and peanuts, which they bring to church to light the candles together and raise funds for children's charities.
Christmas is akin to the Spring Festival in China, representing a time for family reunions. However, in recent years, a survey regarding "How the British Celebrate Christmas" indicates that arguments have taken the place of traditional activities such as going to church or watching the Queen's speech, becoming an essential feature of Christmas in British households.
Post-Holiday
The day after Christmas, known as Boxing Day, falls on December 26. It is customary for British retailers to begin discounts on this day, making it an excellent opportunity for shoppers to acquire bargains.
