by Ramona Bradbury

A tradition is something that is carried on down through the years and even from age to age. There are many Christmas Traditions that may vary from culture to culture. A lot of our Christmas Traditions started across the seas and in far away foreign lands. For instance:<

Christmas, in the United States, is a traditional holiday falling on December 25th each year. It is mostly observed in recognition of the nativity. Many people celebrate the day in different ways with family and friends. It's a day of joy and happiness, truly a Christmas Tradition.

The Christmas tree idea started in the early 17th century in Strasbourg, France. It spread through Germany and on into northern Europe. The royalty of Great Britain, in the mid 1800s, introduced the decorated evergreen Christmas tree custom and from there it accompanied emigrants to the New World, which became the United States. There it became a yearly Christmas Tradition across the nation.

The custom of giving gifts started with the Dutch settlers in the New World. The gifts were given to the children on St. Nicholas' Eve. The British settlers made this tradition a part of their Christmas Eve celebration. Now it has evolved into a complete exchange of Christmas gifts and cards to those we love, truly an American Christmas Tradition.

The holly, which is both a tree and a shrub, grows in England, America, and South America. It is native to eastern United States. It has become a traditional Christmas decoration for the home as well as other places. Staircases can be beautifully adorned with holly and evergreen garlands. Lights can be added for striking beauty! Fireplace mantles can also be dressed in like manner with tall candles arranged throughout. These decorations are a beautiful Christmas Tradition.

American mistletoe, the state flower of Oklahoma, also a Christmas Tradition, is used throughout the United States. We are all familiar with the kissing ball or a sprig of mistletoe hung in a doorway. Single people, at Christmas parties, hope to meet someone new under the mistletoe.

Last but not least this Christmas Tradition involves a wassail bowl. This was a vessel of ancient times that contained a liquid alcoholic drink for toasting one's health. This ancient custom is carried on today in the holiday season, although we don't use the term 'wassail bowl.' We know it as the 'punch bowl.' It, too, can be spiked with alcohol or served as a plain egg nog drink. We still give a toast, holding our glasses high, to a Happy Holiday for all!

My postscript: Enjoy your own Christmas Traditions! Happy Holidays!