Christmas History Part II: Traditional Customs and Celebrations
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

Christmas is widely celebrated as both a religious observance and a cultural holiday with a variety of customs and traditions. But most people do not appreciate why they celebrate the way they celebrate. Why do people kiss under mistletoe? Why are evergreen trees brought into homes and decorated? Why are stockings hung with care? When did sending Christmas cards begin? Why are there candy canes? This extensively illustrated course will examine the history and evolution of the celebratory activities commonly associated with Christmas, including trees and ornaments, wreaths, wassailing, Advent calendars, cards, creches, stockings, nutcrackers, presents, seasonal foods and drinks, outdoor lighting, parades, commercialization, and much more. The course will conclude with survey of unusual Christmas customs and traditions around the world.