As we draw closer to Christmas, I have been reflecting on the traditions and celebrations that not only our family, but others have. I love seeing what others do with their families and how they celebrate the holiday together. Some have large family gatherings, some are small. Some give lots of presents and some give only a few. Whatever your family tradition, they are usually that…traditions.
So where did they come from? Have they been passed down from generation to generation or are they new? Is there meaning behind the traditions? Christmas is a holiday rich in tradition, but do we know what they are or what they mean? My History of the Christmas Tree & Saint Nicholas Unit Study shares the history of these two iconic symbols of the Christmas season.
But why study the history of Christmas? Is there even a good reason?
3 Reasons to Study the History of Holidays
“Why?” is always a great question to ask when things become customary. When asked about what a family does or serves at Christmas, many tell me they have the same food and gift giving traditions they had growing up. This makes me question, why? Is there a reason they only serve ham at Christmas? Is there a reason they give a lot of gifts to their children? Or is it just because its always been that way? I am not saying these things are bad or wrong, but continuing traditions because they’re traditions can make a holiday aimless. As Christians, we should strive to find purpose in all things.
The story behind some traditions can provide meaning to traditions you already have. As I researched and prepared for my history of the Christmas Tree unit study, I learned information I never knew; both about the symbol of the tree and Saint Nicholas himself. A perfect way to learn more about the traditions of Christmas is through this new Christmas Around the World study from Awe Filled Homemaker! These mini studies from the countries have prompted some new ideas and ways we might change our own family celebrations of Christmas.
You might discover new ways to celebrate, which can breathe new life into your holiday. Have you ever felt like the upcoming holiday was turning into the same old, same old? Learning about traditions and their meaning can bring new life into your holiday. You might find that putting treats in the kids’ shoes like they do in France is a fun way to help kids wake up on Christmas morning. Or try a new dish from the Philippines. You might also decide that putting up a Christmas tree or decorating with lights isn’t something you want to do anymore. Whatever it is, you’re sure to find something new to celebrate when you learn more!
Want to learn more about the traditions of Christmas from around the world? You can through the Christmas Around the World Advent Study! I was privileged enough like to be on the editing team of this project and I cannot wait to use this with my own family! This Advent study is a wonderful way to learn more about the Christmas traditions and their meanings from 20 different countries!
The study is designed to take you through December 24th and on a tour of Christmas Around the World. Laura created this study out of their years in the Army and different traditions they encountered overseas. This prompted her to learn more about the traditions of Christmas and “Santa Claus” in 20 different countries.
If you’re looking for a new and unique Advent study to do with your family this year, I highly recommend checking it out! As the Advent season quickly approaches, this study will be a wonderful addition to any family this year! Take a trip around the world to 20 different countries and learn about the history of their own Christmas traditions, as well as the history of Advent, Saint Nicholas and the Birth of Jesus Christ.