Christmas - EYFS/Early Years activities, Displays and ideas
Christmas Eve 24th December / Christmas Day 25th December
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Core ‘Christmas’ Resources
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About ‘Christmas’
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Core ‘Christmas’ Resources
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‘CHRISTMAS’ THEMED RESOURCES AVAILABLE IN OUR ‘GET ORGANISED’ SECTIONS!…
About ‘Christmas’
Christmas, celebrated on December 25th, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is also widely recognised as a cultural celebration. Beyond its religious roots, Christmas has grown into a global holiday characterised by traditions of gift-giving, festive decorations, music, and gatherings with family and friends.
Historical and Religious Significance of Christmas
Celebration of the Nativity: Christmas marks the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, as told in the New Testament of the Bible. Christians believe Jesus to be the Son of God and the Messiah, making his birth a foundational event in Christian theology.
Christmas Traditions and Symbols
Christmas Trees and Decorations: A decorated Christmas tree is one of the most recognisable symbols of the holiday. This tradition dates back to German customs in the 16th century. Today, homes and streets are decorated with lights, ornaments, wreaths, and nativity scenes depicting the birth of Jesus.
Gift-Giving: Inspired by the gifts of the Magi (wise men) who brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the newborn Jesus, the tradition of gift-giving is central to Christmas. This act of giving is also associated with St. Nicholas, a 4th-century saint known for his generosity.
Santa Claus: Known by different names globally, such as Father Christmas in the UK and Père Noël in France, Santa Claus is a beloved Christmas figure who, according to folklore, brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve. His image as a jolly, bearded man dressed in red became popularised in the 19th century.
Christmas Music and Carols: Christmas songs, or carols, are an essential part of the holiday season. From traditional hymns like “Silent Night” to modern classics, Christmas music brings festive cheer and often reflects themes of joy, peace, and love.
Festive Food: Traditional Christmas meals vary worldwide but often include roast meats, vegetables, and sweets. Common items include roast turkey or ham, stuffing, mince pies, gingerbread, Christmas pudding, and eggnog.
Advent and Church Services: For many Christians, the Advent season, starting four Sundays before Christmas, is a time of reflection and anticipation. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day church services, including midnight masses and nativity plays, are traditional.
Modern Celebrations and Secular Aspects
Family Gatherings: Christmas is a time for family reunions, often centred around shared meals, gift exchanges, and quality time together.
Charity and Goodwill: Christmas emphasises the spirit of giving, with many people donating to charities or helping those in need. The holiday season sees increased acts of kindness and outreach to the less fortunate.
Global Celebrations: Christmas is celebrated with different customs across cultures. In Mexico, Las Posadas re-enacts Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, while in the Philippines, the Simbang Gabi masses last for nine days. Each country brings its unique flavour to the festivities.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
Christmas has become a widely observed holiday beyond its religious context, representing themes of love, unity, generosity, and hope. With a blend of secular and religious elements, it is celebrated by people worldwide, regardless of background, uniting communities with joy, tradition, and a shared spirit of kindness.
Christmas remains one of the most celebrated holidays, cherished for its warmth, generosity, and universal messages of peace and goodwill.
