Christmas Traditions

America Christmas: A Tapestry of Traditions and Celebrations

Diverse Traditions Due to Multiculturalism The USA has a rich tapestry of Christmas traditions. In the melting pot of traditions that is the United States of America, Christmas is celebrated with a vibrant amalgamation of customs. While many American Christmas traditions find their roots in the UK, Italy, France, and other countries, they’ve also been uniquely molded by the diverse American ethos.

Christmas Celebrations in the United States of America

Christmas is in the air, and its magic can be felt everywhere. Yet, how it’s celebrated can differ from one place to another. Every country has its unique traditions and customs, and within these countries, a plethora of diverse celebrations can be found. The USA is no exception. Let’s journey through some cherished and classic American Christmas customs:

Preparations for Christmas and fun traditions

1. Choosing the Perfect Christmas Tree The official start of the festive season for many is the ritual of selecting the ideal Christmas tree. Though the journey can be messy with fallen needles, the joy of ornamenting the house and the tree is unparalleled. However, the quest for the flawless tree, without gaps or imperfections, is an art in itself.

2. Tree Decorations: Many use popcorn threaded on string for tree decorations. Additionally, gingerbread houses are popular for both decoration and consumption.

3. Outdoor Displays: Homes, workplaces, and streets come alive with lights, flowers, and decorations weeks before Christmas. Homes often dazzle with lights, and statues of Santa Claus, Snowmen, and Reindeer. Many towns and cities also illuminate their streets, with the Rockefeller Center in New York being notably iconic for its grand Christmas tree and ice skating rink.

4. The Mystery of Secret Santa : A favorite among many, especially in workplaces, is the Secret Santa game. Participants anonymously gift one individual in the group, ensuring everyone receives something without the pressure of gifting all. The challenge? Guessing your mysterious benefactor upon unwrapping your present. It’s a fun way to spread festive cheer among peers.

5. Gifts form Parents: Children Gifts From Parents Children eagerly await their presents from parents and, of course, Santa Claus.

6. Creative Stocking Hangings One of the most artistic traditions is the hanging of stockings. While some opt for the conventional red and white, others, like myself, enjoy more personalized stockings, crafted with care. The truly fortunate even use special stocking hangers featuring their favorite characters.

7. The Caroling Experience Admittedly, caroling might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Whether you’re on the singing or the listening end, it can sometimes feel a tad awkward. But despite these feelings, there’s no denying that caroling is a time-honored tradition in America.

8. Santa’s Midnight Snack For children who embrace the magic of Santa, the age-old practice of leaving cookies and a refreshing glass of milk out is a must-do. While it serves as a delightful treat for Santa, it might also be a sly attempt to get an extra present or two. And nothing beats the joy of discovering a half-eaten cookie in the morning, further deepening the magic.

9. Topping the Christmas Tree: After decorating, a cherished topper, either a star or angel, is placed. This symbolizes the home’s readiness for Santa.

10. Gingerbread House Making: Not universal, but making gingerbread houses is a sweet pastime for many. It combines creativity and delectable delight.

11. Neighborhood Light Drive: A cherished memory is driving around to view festive lights. The sparkling displays are a festive season highlight.

Spirit of Giving and Celebration:

• Christmas isn’t just about personal celebrations. Many engage in community service, providing essentials like food, clothing, and shelter to those less fortunate.
• Schools, churches, and organizations spearhead fun activities and events, from decorating spaces with holiday motifs to planning concerts.
• The quintessential Christmas tree holds a special place in celebrations, often adorned with lights, ornaments, and gifts beneath it.

Christmas Day in the USA:

• Marked as a national holiday, most offices, schools, and institutions remain closed.
• Many Americans, especially Christians, attend Church services to commemorate Jesus’ birth. Special carol services and events recount the Christmas story.
• The day witnesses a surge in traffic, with families traveling to be with loved ones.
• Churches across the nation hold special Christmas carol services and events to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
• Specialty stores, dedicated to Christmas decorations and gifts, buzz with activity.
• Christmas Cards and Carol Singing: Sending out Christmas cards and carol singing are common practices.
• The Christmas Pickle: This unique custom is also observed by some.
• Outdoor decorations are particularly grand, often featuring Santa, snowmen, and reindeers. And not to forget, snacks like cookies, milk, and chocolates are left out for Santa on Christmas Eve.

Festive Meals and Food Traditions:

A traditional festive meal, often with turkey as the centerpiece, is a staple in most American households.

• Western European Influence: Families commonly serve turkey or ham with cranberry sauce.
• Eastern European Influence: Popular choices include turkey with trimmings, kielbasa/kielbasi, cabbage dishes, and soups.
• Italian Influence: Some Italian-American families indulge in lasagne or the renowned Feast of the Seven Fishes (‘Festa dei sette pesci’). This Christmas Eve tradition, rooted in southern Italy, became popular among Italian immigrants in the USA during the 1800s and seems to be more prevalent in America today than in Italy.
• Traditional Beverages :Eggnog is a cherished Christmas drink in the USA.

History of Christmas Trees in the USA

1. The tradition was introduced by German immigrants in Pennsylvania. While community trees existed as early as the 1750s, personal trees became mainstream much later.
2. The 1800s saw a surge in Christmas tree popularity, partly due to influences from notable figures and significant events. These include Charles Follen’s 1832 tree, a 1848 drawing of Queen Victoria and her family with a tree, and the first Christmas tree lot in New York in 1851.
3. The White House also played a role, with Franklin Pierce introducing the first Christmas Tree in 1856 and electric lights adorning a tree under Grover Cleveland’s presidency in 1895.

Special Mentions and Regional Variations

• Hawaii: Here, Santa goes by the name Kanakaloka.
• Philadelphia’s New Year’s Celebration: The Mummer’s Day parade is a spectacular event with clubs showcasing intricate costumes in a competition.
• Southwest USA Traditions: Some customs mirror those in parts of Mexico. ‘Luminarias’ or ‘farolitos’ light pathways on Christmas Eve, symbolizing guiding Mary and Joseph. Tamales are a favored festive food.
• Louisiana: In certain communities along the Mississippi River, bonfires are lit on Christmas Eve to guide ‘Papa Noel’ (Santa’s French name, celebrating Louisiana’s French connection) to children’s homes.

In Conclusion:

The diverse ways in which Christmas is celebrated in the USA reflects the nation’s rich cultural mosaic. Whether you’re a visitor wanting to experience the festivities or an American seeking to delve deeper into holiday traditions, the spirit of Christmas in the United State of America is bound to captivate your heart. Should you have more inquiries about this joyous celebration, feel free to comment and ask.