Christmas

Christmas is one of the biggest holidays in the world. It happens every year on December 25. People decorate trees, sing songs, and give gifts to each other. Many families cook a big meal and spend the day together. Kids often wait for Santa Claus to bring presents.

How People Celebrate

Families put up a Christmas tree and hang shiny ornaments on it. They wrap gifts in colorful paper and place them under the tree. On Christmas morning, kids run to open their presents. Many people also hang stockings by the fireplace. Some sing Christmas songs called carols with their friends and neighbors.

An old painting shows shepherds visiting baby Jesus on Christmas.
An old painting shows shepherds visiting baby Jesus on Christmas. (Paris Orlando / Wikimedia Commons)

Santa Claus and Traditions

Santa Claus is a jolly man in a red suit. Kids believe he rides a sleigh pulled by reindeer. He brings gifts to children who have been good. People also eat special foods like cookies, candy canes, and gingerbread. Many families share a big dinner with turkey or ham.

Fun Facts

  • The first Christmas tree lights were real candles, which was not very safe.
  • More than two billion people around the world celebrate Christmas.
  • The song Jingle Bells was first written for Thanksgiving, not Christmas.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the tallest Christmas tree ever was over 220 feet tall? That is taller than a 20-story building!