The History, Traditions & Symbols of Christmas

What are the origins of Christmas and when was Christ actually born? Why is the candy cane associated with the holidays? When was the first Christmas card sent? Who is Santa Claus? Why is Santa's sleigh pulled by reindeer and where did we get their names? How did the custom of Christmas trees begin? Why do we kiss under the mistletoe? Do we really have Montgomery Wards to thank for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? Discover the facts, myths and theories behind many of the popular customs and symbols associated with the Christmas holiday.

Origins of Christmas »
Discover the history and theories behind a holiday now celebrated around the world.

Christmas Trees »
Learn how Germany, Martin Luther and Prince Albert helped bring us the Christmas tree.

Santa Claus »
St. Nicholas, Sinterklaas, Santa... trace the history of this beloved Christmas figure.

Holly & Ivy »
Follow holly and ivy from ancient winter solstice celebrations to today's Christmas decor.

Santa's Reindeer »
Magical goats, the god of thunder... fun reindeer facts and theories.

Mistletoe »
Druid priests, Norse mythology, kissing balls and other interesting mistletoe facts and legends.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer »
A Montgomery Ward employee creates one of our favorite Christmas characters.

Poinsettias »
U.S. ambassador to Mexico introduces the "Flower of the Holy Night" to America.

The Candy Cane »
Contrary to popular urban legends, the candy cane was not created as a religious symbol.

Xmas »
Despite being frequently maligned, "Xmas" does not remove the "Christ" from Christmas.

Christmas Cards »
Short on time to write personal greetings, Henry Cole creates the first Christmas card.

Hanukkah »
Learn the origins of this religious celebration which occurs around the Christmas holidays.

Christmas Stockings »
Hung by children the world over, learn how the custom of hanging stockings came to be.

Kwanzaa »
The history and symbols behind this African-American holiday celebrated each December.