Christmas in the UK

Christmas is a popular holiday, like a small miracle in the middle of a cold, dark winter. The British look forward to it as much as anyone, preparing for it in advance and trying to spend it in such a way that the feeling of a fairy tale stays with them for a long time. Christmas marks the birth of Christ, who shone his light on the dark realm of misery and human vices, giving hope that the world will be a better and happier place in the future. We suggest you immerse yourself in this positive atmosphere and learn more about this magical holiday with the help of this article.

History of the celebration

The long winter has always depressed people. So, there was a similar holiday in pre-Christian times. But, of course, it had a slightly different meaning. Then people celebrated the winter solstice, rejoicing that the day would begin to add and become longer. In ancient England, this holiday was called Yule.

Its main symbol, of course, was fire. And the burning of the yule log was one of the central events of the celebration. It is interesting that the tradition of decorating trees originated already then. However, in those times, the centrepiece was the oak tree, not the spruce. And of course, it was not cut down, but on the contrary blessed. But they started to bring mistletoe sprigs into the house already then.

If you compare when Christmas is celebrated in the UK now and what time Yule used to take place, it becomes apparent that historically the holidays have simply flowed into each other, changing the occasion but not the traditions and overall meaning.

It happened in 597, when St Augustine baptised England. And it happened on the 25th of December. So for the British, Christmas has a double meaning. It not only refers to the birth of Jesus, but also marks the anniversary of the adoption of Christianity.

Even so, the celebration of Christmas in Britain was for some time banned. In the 17th century, Oliver Cromwell was outraged by the too obvious parallel with the Celtic Yule and believed that people were engaging in obscurantism under the guise of a Christian holiday. So he cancelled all celebrations and ordered those who violated the law to be arrested and sent to jail.

Twenty years later, Charles II, who came to the throne, allowed his subjects to celebrate the day again. And under Queen Victoria, the celebrations became unprecedented. Many of the traditions that emerged in the Victorian era are still popular today.

How do you decorate a house for Christmas?

Preparations for this holiday start as early as the beginning of December and sets the mood for the whole month. Celebrating Christmas in the UK is a mystery. The British enjoy stretching the joyful anticipation and preparations for it throughout the whole month of December.

Christmas wreath

Most often it is made of spruce branches with mistletoe woven in. Mistletoe has a special place in Christmas traditions, as it has remained since pagan times. This plant is considered a strong amulet, which helps against the evil eye and brings good luck. Ribbons and bows, fir cones, rowan berries and other decorations are also woven into the wreath. Most often such wreaths are hung on front doors. But sometimes they are placed on the table as a decoration and candles are placed inside the circle.

Caramel cane

Its traditional colours are red and white, and its traditional flavours are cinnamon and mint. But today you can find canes in all colours and flavours. The main thing is that it retains its shape, which is like the English letter J. This is the letter that begins the name of Jesus, whose birth is celebrated on this day.

Christmas sock

It is believed that one day Father Christmas, flying over a house, dropped some coins which fell into a sock drying by the fireplace. Since then, this attribute has become an integral tradition of Christmas celebrations in the UK. Socks are filled with nice little things for family members. Of course, not everyone today has a fireplace, so many people hang a sock over the bed. Children especially like to do this, hoping that then Santa will have to come very close when they are asleep, and they will be able to peep at him.

Christmas creche

This is a display of figurines depicting the birth of Christ. Usually, in addition to the Virgin Mary and the baby, there are angels, wise men and even some animals, such as donkeys, which are said to have warmed the new-born baby with their breath on a frosty night. Sometimes the creches are made mechanical and then the figures move, creating a whole performance.

Christmas tree

The custom of putting up and decorating a Christmas tree came to Britain from Germany. It was brought by the wife of George III, born Princess Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Sterlitz. Although popularity among ordinary Britons came to the forest beauty a little later. It was instilled in them by Charlotte’s granddaughter, Queen Victoria, who was very fond of the tradition. There is even a famous engraving of the royal family admiring the richly decorated Christmas tree in the palace.

In those days, the tree was decorated with candy, toys and candles. Later, candles were replaced by safer lanterns, and balloons and toys were joined by tinsel.

In wealthy homes, even more exotic decorations were invented. For example, it was once the fashion among the aristocracy to hang ostrich feathers on the Christmas tree.

Christmas fairs

It’s not just a good opportunity to buy gifts for your loved ones, but also great fun. In addition to the colourful stalls, there are also stalls serving mulled wine or grog and tasty snacks. Nearby ice rinks are open for ice skating or ice sculptures. There are daily concerts and a cosy atmosphere.

Often at such fairs you can find unique items because the best handmade craftsmen gather there. You can buy knitted toys, jewellery made of natural stones, leather accessories, elegant interior items and much more.

Advent calendars

Another cute tradition for celebrating Christmas in the UK that sets the mood in advance. Advent is a calendar with pockets or drawers where you put sweets or small gifts. They are designed to be opened one window at a time from 1 to 25 December. Usually the last number, which is opened on Christmas Eve, contains something particularly interesting and pleasant.

Today, you don’t have to come up with Advent gifts for your children or loved ones yourself. Many companies release them in November with their products. So, some Brits buy them as a surprise for themselves. After all, even luxury brands such as Dior or Chanel have such sets.

Boxing Day

Finishing the topic of presents, we should talk about this unusual day. All the presents are put under the Christmas tree and happily opened in the morning. Why invent a separate holiday for this? But not everything is so simple!

In the old days, landlords and merchants gave their servants and labourers gifts and money to show their gratitude for their loyal service and gave them a free day to spend time with their families. This is one of the most important traditions for celebrating Christmas in the UK. It is taken so seriously that even today 26 December is declared an official day off.

Christmas Eve service

The main celebrations begin as early as Christmas Eve. The main event among them is the festive Mass. In fact, the word Christmas, according to some versions, was formed from the combination of the words Christ and Mass.

In addition to the service itself, the occasion is marked by concerts and themed plays depicting the birth of Jesus. The country’s main Christmas mass is held in Westminster Abbey. It is usually attended by members of the royal family.

Christmas carols

Britain has a very strong tradition of Christmas carols. They are sung at church services, at the festive table and at many concerts. Most often they are traditional tunes, although nowadays you can also hear modern hits dedicated to the holiday.

The history of Christmas chorales in England goes back centuries. Some songs written as early as the sixteenth century are still sung today. But the most popular are the compositions written in the 19th century. And the favourite among them is undoubtedly «Carol Of The Bells». It is noteworthy that although the song itself is a folk song, today it is known in a musical arrangement by composer Nikolai Leontovich.

Christmas table

The English try to make sure that the menu on this day is different from the usual. There are several dishes that are associated with this holiday.

Baked bird

Traditionally in Britain it was goose. But more recently, turkey has become fashionable in America. In any case, the carcass is usually baked whole and poured with cranberry or mint sauce. It is usually garnished with vegetables.

Pudding

This treat is served everywhere in the UK at Christmas. They add dried fruit, nuts and vanilla. And sometimes they put a coin, ring, or other symbolic things inside. Those who receive such a token can count on wealth, marriage, or good luck in the new year.

Eggnog

A rather unfamiliar drink for foreigners, but a favourite of the English, consisting of raw egg, brandy and milk.

Christmas clappers

An obligatory part of the fun at the festive table. They are prepared for each guest and placed near the plate. When everyone gathers, they clap them at the same time. Inside are paper crowns and notes with predictions or cute jokes. Everyone reads their text to the laughter of those around them.