The fires are on, Christmas Tree is lit, blankets are out and you’ve got a hot chocolate in hand whilst enjoying your favourite Christmas movie; it must be Christmas Eve.
Just as important as Christmas during the holiday season, the day and night before is a time of joy and anticipation, and Santa Claus spends the day and night busy ensuring that the day is perfect! But why do we celebrate? What makes this night so special?
The magic and significance of Christmas Eve come from somewhere, and we are going to explore all about that, and more, in our blog.
Read on to find out more about the magic behind Christmas Eve…
Where Did Christmas Eve Celebrations Start?
The Very Early Celebrations (Before Christmas!)
Long before Christmas, the end of December was celebrated, but for different reasons. This time (around the 21-22 December) marks the beginning of winter solstice. This is the shortest day of the year and signifies that longer days are on their way.
In ancient times, this was a big celebration. It was the ‘return of the light’ and that meant big feasts and festivals.
Still shining through, did you know that the word ‘yule’ (Like Yule Log) originates from a solstice festival!
The Beginning of What We know as Christmas Eve
Although the first celebrations are around this time, the Solstice is a very different celebration compared to what we celebrate today.
The Bible does not state an exact date of Jesus’ birth, so one had to be picked so that the world could celebrate this momentous event. 25th December was chosen for a number of reasons, one was that this time of year marks the beginning of the brighter seasons.
The 24th December (Christmas Eve) then became the day to prepare for celebrations. Special prayers and gatherings were held to build up to the big day.
In many countries around the world, it’s custom to prepare for a big day the night before!
Why is the Night Before so Important?
Christmas Eve is all about the joy that the next day brings. The arrival of Jesus was an important moment in the religion of Christianity.
On Christmas Eve, Christians remember the journey of Mary and Joseph, who travelled to Bethlehem. It was a long and difficult journey, but that night, in a stable, Jesus Christ was born.
Many Christians go to a special church services on Christmas Eve called Midnight Mass. These Christmas Eve services is held at night to mark the exact moment when Christmas Day begins, celebrating the birth of Jesus as soon as the clock strikes midnight.
Christmas Eve Traditions Around the World
Around the world, many countries celebrate the eve of Christmas day, for example, in a lot of European Countries, Children open presents on Christmas Eve!
Germany
In Germany, families light Christmas trees for the first time. The children open presents and people sing carols.
Sweden
In Sweden, they have a special name for Christma Eve: ‘Julafton’ – this is where families gather for a traditional Christmas Eve Dinner, watch cartoons and sometimes, they even spot Father Christmas on his way to deliver presents.
Common Traditions
On Christmas Eve, it’s common for families to hang their stockings on the fireplace, and in the morning, they’ll be filled with all the things you asked for!
Santa and his Reindeers have such a long journey – so many families leave out milk and cookies to keep their energy up.
For families with young children, the tradition of reading their letters from Santa has become a big part of Christmas Eve. This can be paired with fun Christmas arts and crafts and activities.
In countries that celebrate Christmas, Christmas Eve marks a night to spend with loved ones to chill out and have fun before the chaos and gift giving of the next day.
Whether it looks like baking cookies or watching a film all cosy on the sofa, it’s a day to create your own unique traditions that bring you joy, and allow you to have a Merry Christmas!
Around the World, Christmas Eve remains a symbol of hope and love.
