According to historians, the exact date of Jesus' birth is not known with certainty. They do know, however, that it was in 306 AD that the then Pope, Julius I, chose December 25 as the official date of the Nativity, nine months after the Feast of the Annunciation. The term "Christmas" It…
A very ancient Germanic belief refers to Christmas elves. Initially inspired by the luminous entities that (according to legend) populated the heavens, elves were later imagined as land clearers whose role was to maintain order in the fields and on the farm. They were particularly cooperative if a good meal...
The answer is simple. Over the centuries, as we will see later, turkey was chosen as the main course for major feasts because it represented an unusual bird. The first roast turkey was reportedly served at a Christmas dinner for King Charles VII. Although this meat is found…
The Christmas spirit is felt from the beginning of December in cities and towns across Australia. Homes are decorated, Christmas cards are sent, and Christmas carols are heard everywhere. Decorated trees and illuminated garlands adorn homes and public spaces with a thousand lights. The tradition…
This custom of giving a Poinsettia at Christmas comes to us from Mexico. The following legend is linked to this magnificent plant. Once upon a time... there was a very poor young girl named Pepita. She was very sad as she walked to church on the evening of December 24th, because she had no gifts to offer...
In the land of light that is Portugal, gifts are brought to children by Pai Natal (Father Christmas) on the evening of December 24th. During the day, women prepare delicious dishes together that will make up the Christmas table. For Christmas, the north and south of the country cultivate their own specialties. In…
Whether rich or poor, Christians across the African continent celebrate Christmas with joy and enthusiasm. Celebrations focus on the religious aspect of the holiday, followed by spirited processions punctuated by dancing and singing. In Zaire: Travelers believe that Christmas in Zaire should be called "the…
Among Romanians, the Christmas holiday has retained its folkloric and religious significance. Christmas carols (the "colindatori") are still spiritually inspired to announce the arrival of the Child Jesus. Customs and traditions In every home, the Christmas tree is decorated with chestnuts, various nuts, apples, candies and chocolates...
It's a well-known fact that in New York, as in all of America, Christmas is a special time of year. It's the perfect opportunity to get together with family and friends, and to celebrate in the streets, restaurants, and bars of the city, which is overflowing with illuminated decorations. A classic! Celebrating Christmas in New York is a classic...
There are several recipes for this typical Italian dessert served at Christmas. Historians agree that it originally came from Milan and has been enjoyed since the late 15th century. To keep this delicious tradition alive at home, here is the traditional recipe for this brioche with raisins and fruit...
Spain still has a large number of believers, so Christmas Day primarily has a religious significance: the birth of Jesus. It is also a day to gather with family around a festive meal. Traditions Christmas festivities in Spain also include the Day of the Holy Innocents and New Year's Day. In the…
We conducted a small survey to find out the different ways in which Christmas gifts are distributed. As you can see, each household has its own traditions. The Master of Ceremonies In many families, a vote is held to appoint the person who will carry out the gift-giving, which will take place…
The Mediterranean tradition of 13 desserts, which must be included on the New Year's Eve menu, originated in Provence. It is still practiced today in this part of France and also in the Nice region. Tradition claims that one should taste a little of each of these desserts to ensure luck and fortune for the year...
A personalized card touches the heart of the person who receives it. With a little creativity and time, you can create original and unique cards. Here are some suggestions for this pre-Christmas craft. There are several options for decorating these all-white cards, which can be purchased in...
This recipe is so old that we don't know where it came from. Regardless, these Christmas donuts are a delight to share with family or friends. Presented in a pretty, colorful box, they make a warm and welcoming gift. Ingredients: Two eggs at room temperature, 250 ml caster sugar,…
If you're lucky enough to have a fireplace with a ledge, you have a key element for decorating the room in which it's located. Here are some Christmas decorating suggestions. A mirror and its decorations By hanging a large mirror above the fireplace, you'll give it more perspective and...
The Star of Bethlehem features in the Nativity story, as mentioned in a passage in the Gospel of Matthew. This star is said to have guided the Magi, who had come from the East, to Jerusalem, where they met King Herod of Judea, and to have asked him where the King of the Jews was who…
The idea of a cave converted into a stable, in which the Child Jesus was born, comes from the Gospel of Luke in the Bible. Indeed, when speaking of the manger where the Child was laid, he mentions the word 'cripia' from which the word 'crèche' would later come. A little history... From the third century, Christians took...
