Which holidays are celebrated in December?
December is a month filled with joy, celebration, and a sense of community. It’s a time when people come together to honor various traditions and events. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular holidays celebrated in December around the world.
1. Christmas
The most widely celebrated holiday in December is Christmas. It commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed by billions of people worldwide. Christians celebrate the holiday with religious services, family gatherings, and the exchange of gifts. Decorations like trees, lights, and ornaments are commonly used to decorate homes and public spaces.
2. Hanukkah
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day Jewish holiday that usually falls in December. It celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after its desecration by the Syrian-Greek army. Hanukkah is marked by the lighting of the menorah, the eating of traditional foods like latkes and sufganiyot, and the playing of dreidel.
3. Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is a week-long African-American holiday that takes place from December 26 to January 1. It was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga to celebrate African heritage and culture. The holiday focuses on seven principles, which are reflected in the daily activities and the seven candles of the kinara.
4. St. Lucia’s Day
St. Lucia’s Day is a Christian holiday celebrated primarily in Scandinavian countries, particularly in Sweden and Italy. It honors Saint Lucia, a young Christian woman who was martyred in the 3rd century. The celebration includes a procession of women wearing a crown of candles, a Lucia cake, and the serving of Lucia cookies.
5. New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is the culmination of the holiday season and marks the end of one year and the beginning of another. It is celebrated worldwide with various traditions, such as watching fireworks, attending parties, and making resolutions for the upcoming year.
6. Boxing Day
Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated on December 26 in many countries, primarily in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It originated from the tradition of giving Christmas boxes to the poor and is now observed as a day for relaxation and family gatherings.
In conclusion, December is a month filled with diverse holidays that bring people together and celebrate different cultures and beliefs. From the religious significance of Christmas and Hanukkah to the cultural heritage of Kwanzaa and St. Lucia’s Day, these holidays offer a chance to appreciate the richness of human traditions and create lasting memories.
