Worldwide Christmas Traditions

When Barbara Robinson penned a piece of childrens' Christmas literature, she had no way of knowing she was writing an instant classic. But that's what happened: "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" skyrocketed off the shelves and into instant, and almost magical, status.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is an extremely short chapter book, probably aimed at second or third grade students. But children and adults alike have enjoyed the tale for more than twenty years. Therefore, it's a Christmas classic.

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Posted by Jenny | Permalink

Most people associate Ukraine with Easter, especially eggs, but there are actually many interesting Ukrainian Christmas traditions, too. Areas with a high percentage of people of Ukrainian ancestry accept "Ukrainian Christmas" as a normal part of the year's celebrations, and many people celebrate the holidays twice -- on December 25th and again on Ukrainian Christmas.

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Posted by Jenny | Permalink

As far as traditional Christmas songs go, I'm sure that few people would put the Beach Boys' "Little St. Nick" or "The Twelve Pains of Christmas" by Bob Rivers on their classics list...but I wouldn't dare bet that nobody would.

See, what counts as a traditional Christmas song varies according to the individual and family. While "White Christmas" and "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" are all very well and good, this Christmas I'll also be chanting the traditional Christmas song lyrics of "Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer."

Continue reading "Traditional Christmas Songs: What's Traditional to You?" »

Posted by Jenny | Permalink

There's comfort in tradition, and most of us look forward to the traditional Christmas we've celebrated since childhood--complete with a traditional Christmas dinner, eaten while surrounded by classic Christmas decorations and all the other traditional things.

But you know what? I'll bet that you can't find two families in America who would agree on what all those traditional things are.

Continue reading "The Comfort of a Traditional Christmas" »

Posted by Jenny | Permalink