Christmas (/krɪsməs/) is an annual holiday celebrated on December 25 that marks and honors

the birth of Jesus , which is the basis for the Anno Domini (between 7

and 2 BC, the date of celebration is not thought to be Jesus' actual date of birth, and may have been chosen to coincide with

ancient Roman solar festivals that were held on December 25.)

Etymology

The word Christmas originated as a contraction of "Christ's mass". It is derived from the Middle English Christemasse and Old English Cristes mæsse, a phrase first recorded in 1038, the Greek christos and the Latin missa. In early Greek versions the letter Χ (chi) is the first letter of Christ. Since the mid-16th century Χ, or the similar Roman letter X, has been used as an abbreviation for Christ. Xmas is often used as an abbreviation for Christmas.

Modern customs of the holiday

include postcard- and gift-giving,

church celebrations.

The display of various decorations—including

the Christmas tree

Other decorations:

lights

garlands

candles

Other popular holiday plants: Christmas Cactus in bloom

                                    

European Holly (Ilex aquifolium) leaves and fruit

European mistletoe                                    

Two main figures:(they have different origins)

Santa Claus, also known as Saint

Nicholas, Kris Kringle, or simply "Santa", is the figure who, in Western cultures, is described as bringing gifts on Christmas Eve, December 24.The legend may have its basis in hagiographical tales concerning the historical figure of Saint Nicholas.

Father Christmas

The traditional Father Christmas was neither a gift bringer, nor associated with children.

Nowadays, most Britons use the expressions Father Christmas and Santa Claus as synonyms.

Christmas is celebrated throughout the Christian population, but is also celebrated by many non-Christians as a secular, cultural festival. The holiday is widely celebrated around the world, including in the United States, where it is celebrated by 96% of the population.

How do people prepare to celebrate Christmas?

• buy and carry Christmas tree

• decorate this tree at home lights and ornaments

• decorate the fireplace with stockings, candles

• put presents under the tree

• decorate the street door with garlands

• Decorate the house with street lights

• make snowmen

• wait for Santa Claus with a sack

How does Santa Claus come to your house?

Don’t forget to send Christmas cards to your relatives and friends