Christmas trees.
The first noted Christmas tree in the UK was brought over by the wife of King George III, Queen Charlotte. This was a tradition she brought from her native Germany, where it was custom to have a Yew tree in the home during Christmas.
Mistletoe.
Before it was considered a symbol of romance, a kiss under the mistletoe, the plant was considered sacred as in ancient Britain it could only be cut by druids with a golden sickle. The plant had connotations of peace and people who met underneath it were forbidden from fighting, even if they were enemies. Home decorated with Mistletoe were considered safe spaces and would offer protection to anyone who entered. However, even to this day, due to the Pagan connotations, it is rare that you will see Mistletoe in a Christian church. The Victorians turned this peaceful symbol into one of romance.
Holly and Ivy.
In pagan religion, the Holly plant represented eternal life and protection, something that the Christian church looked down on. However, the plant grew popular, as it was believed that the red of the berries would ward off witches. The church eventually sanctified it and turned the thorns to represent Jesus Christ’s crown of thorns and the berries for his blood. Holly is considered to be the male part of the plant while the Ivy is the female.
Christmas Cards.
John Calcott Horsley sent the first printed Christmas card in 1843; it caused some controversy as it showed a small child drinking wine. Despite this, Christmas cards soon caught on and have been a tradition ever since.
The Monarch’s speech.
The speech delivered every Christmas by the current reigning monarch has been something that millions tune in to watch every year. In 2020, over 24 million people watched the late Queen give her Christmas speech, which was originally started by her grandfather, King George V in 1932.
Finland 
In Finland, it is tradition for many Finns to visit the Sauna on Christmas Eve and for families to visit the gravesites of departed loved ones.
Hyvää Joulua!
Mexico 
The Poinsettia plant originally came from Mexico, which is seen as a universal symbol of Christmas. Children in Mexico celebrate by making piñatas and hitting them until they break and send treats falling to the floor.
Feliz Navidad!
France 
In southern France, some of the people will burn a log in their homes from Christmas Eve until New Years Day. This comes from an ancient tradition when farmers would use part of the burnt log to ensure good luck in the next harvest.
Joyeux Noel!
Australia 
Christmas falls in the middle of the Australian Summer and it is quite common for Christmas Day to be 38 degrees Celsius. Due to the warm weather, many Australians spend Christmas on the beach and having outdoor barbecues.
Merry Christmas!
Greece 
Many people in Greece believe in Kallikantzeri, the holiday were goblins appear to cause mischief in the 12 days of Christmas. They usually exchange gifts on January 1st to celebrate St Basil’s Day.
Kala Christouyenna!
Ukraine 
Traditionally, Ukraine would celebrate Christmas on January 6th, as depicted by the Julian Calendar. However, over the past few years many Ukrainians have opted to celebrate on December 25th, following the Gregorian calendar.
Shchaslyvoho Rizdva!
Allyson
I can’t wait for the cold winter months when I can spend time with my family, warm in the house watching Christmas movies or playing board games with a cheeky tub of Christmas chocolates.
Annalee
I love being able to spend the holiday period with friends and family, especially those who I might not see as often the rest of the year. You can’t go wrong with eating some nice chocolate or even a left-over turkey barm.
Courtney
I love decorating the house to make it shine and sparkle with all the lovely lights. I spend the whole of December listening to Christmas music and preparing for that fabulous few days with movies, days lounging in pyjamas and spending time with my family. For the last few years, my sister and I have woken up early on Christmas day to watch a movie together in bed before opening presents and spending the day with family.
Danny
For me, relaxing at home with a good movie like Die hard with a steaming hot drink and a secret stash of chocolate is one of the best things to do during the Christmas period.
Dianne
My all-time favourite things to do during Christmas is spending time with my family. We love to get together with some good food, some excellent drink and playing traditional games.
Jade
I love Christmas and I adore being able to share this time with my family. We spend the days cuddled in blankets, watching Christmas films with hot chocolates and sweet treats.
Jane
Over the Christmas holidays, I love being able to spend time with my family. I love being able to decorate the tree, listen to Christmas music and of course watch my favourite Christmas film, Die Hard.
Joanne
During the festive period, I love spending time with my family and doing traditional Christmas activities. We go on winter walks together and play board games with lots of treats and goodies. I love being able to see my extended family and watch movies with the kids.
Lorraine
My favourite Christmas tradition is when I get to meet up and relax with my family while playing a good game of charades (you can't beat a good game of charades).
Luca
To me, Christmas is all about staying home with your family, staying warm and watching Christmas movies while eating a lot of food.
Paul
My all time favourite thing about Christmas is when it snows. I absolutely love the snow especially when I get to spend time with the grandkids or even go skiing.
