Christmas is a special time of the year for kids and adults alike. It’s a time to gather with family, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive decorations. But how much do your children really know about this holiday? From the origins of Santa Claus to the biggest Christmas tree ever, we’ve compiled 10 Christmas fun facts for kids that they will love!l
Santa Claus is based on a real person!
The jolly, red-suited man who delivers presents to children on Christmas Eve is actually based on a real person, St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas was a bishop who lived in the 4th century in what is now modern-day Turkey. People knew him for his generosity and kindness, particularly towards children.
Christmas trees were originally decorated with food and candles.
First, the tradition of decorating Christmas trees dates back to medieval Germany. At first, people decorated with edible treats like apples, nuts, and gingerbread. Later, people added candles to the tree to symbolize the light of Christ.
The largest Christmas tree ever was over 270 feet tall!
Second The world’s largest Christmas tree happened in 1950 in Seattle, Washington. It stood an astonishing 277 feet tall, or roughly 28 stories high!
A Department store created Rudolph.
Third, In 1939, a copywriter named Robert May was told to create a Christmas character for Montgomery Ward department store. He came up with the story of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, which became an instant hit. The famous song we all know and love came later, in 1949.
Candy canes have a religious meaning.
Fourth, Many people associate candy canes with Christmas, but they actually have a religious meaning. The shape of the candy cane resemble’s a shepherd’s crook, and the white stripes represent the purity of Jesus Christ. The red stripes symbolize his blood, shed for our sins.
Some families celebrate Christmas on January 7th.
Fifth, In some countries and Christian denominations, people celebrate on January 7th rather than December 25th. This is because these groups use the Julian calendar instead of the Gregorian calendar, which means their dates fall 13 days behind.
The first Christmas card was sent in 1843.
The tradition of sending Christmas cards is nearly 200 years old! Sir Henry Cole, a British civil servant, sent the first one in 1843. The card included an illustration of a family gathered around a table, and the message “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.”
Mistletoe is a symbol of love.
Next The tradition of kissing under the mistletoe dates back to ancient times. It can have healing properties and is a symbol of love and friendship.
Christmas stockings have a legendary origin.
The tradition of hanging stockings by the fireplace dates back to the legend of St. Nicholas. According to the legend, St. Nicholas heard about a poor family with three daughters who couldn’t afford to get married. Consequently, he secretly left gold coins in their stockings, which had been hung by the fireplace to dry.
The first Christmas carols were Latin.
Finally, The word “carol” comes from the Greek word for “dance” or “song of praise.” The first Christmas carols were sung in Latin and were typically sung during church services.
