Christmas in the United States

Christmas in the United States
Observed by	United States
Type	Christian, cultural
Significance	Commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ
Celebrations	Gift-giving, family gatherings, feasting, church services
Date	December 25
Frequency	Annual
Related to	Advent, Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, Epiphany

Christmas in the United States is a major holiday celebrated on December 25 each year. It is both a religious and cultural event, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ and celebrated by millions of people across the country. The holiday is marked by various traditions, including gift-giving, family gatherings, and festive decorations.

History

The celebration of Christmas in the United States has evolved over time. The holiday was not widely celebrated in the early years of the nation. In fact, Puritans in New England banned Christmas celebrations in the 17th century, viewing them as unbiblical. However, by the 19th century, Christmas began to gain popularity, influenced by European traditions and the publication of works such as Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol".

In 1870, Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the United States, solidifying its status as a significant national celebration.

Traditions

Christmas traditions in the United States are diverse and vary by region and cultural background. Some of the most common traditions include:

• Gift-giving: Exchanging gifts is a central part of Christmas celebrations. Many people participate in Secret Santa or give gifts to family and friends.

• Decorations: Homes and public spaces are often decorated with Christmas trees, lights, and other festive ornaments. The tradition of decorating a Christmas tree is believed to have originated in Germany and was popularized in the United States in the 19th century.

• Santa Claus: The figure of Santa Claus, based on Saint Nicholas, is a beloved symbol of Christmas. Children often write letters to Santa and leave out cookies and milk for him on Christmas Eve.

• Church services: Many Christians attend church services on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Services often include the singing of Christmas carols and the retelling of the Nativity story.

• Feasting: Christmas meals vary widely but often include turkey, ham, and a variety of side dishes and desserts. Eggnog and fruitcake are traditional holiday treats.

Cultural Impact

Christmas has a significant cultural impact in the United States, influencing music, film, and literature. Popular Christmas songs such as "Jingle Bells" and "White Christmas" are staples of the holiday season. Christmas-themed movies, such as "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Home Alone", are also widely enjoyed.

Economic Impact

The holiday season is a crucial time for the U.S. economy, with significant increases in retail sales. Many businesses offer special promotions and sales, and the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is often referred to as the "holiday shopping season."

See also

• Christmas worldwide
• Christmas controversy
• Christmas traditions

References

• "History of Christmas". History.com. Retrieved October 10, 2023.

External links

• The History of Christmas in America