Hey Everyone!
The Christmas holidays have just started and the big day is fast approaching. It’s our first Christmas and we are thinking about the traditions that are abundant this time of year, from advent calendars to Christmas crackers, and thought this would be a great chance to reflect on their origins.
When we think of advent calendars we generally think of chocolate… and lots of it! But this tradition dates back to the 19th Century in Germany where devout Christians would count down the days until Christmas by lighting candles or making chalk marks on the door. Germany is also accredited with the tradition of a Christmas tree as people would bring decorated trees into their homes, while others would use branches of fir tree (or other evergreens) to decorate their house as a reminder of the Spring. The presents that we exchange at Christmas are a reference to the three wise Kings bringing presents to the baby Jesus. This tradition varies by country as some exchange Presents early in December, some in January while others receive them on New Years Eve.
Christmas Crackers were first made by a London sweet-maker called Tom Smith who had seen French ‘bon bon’ sweets and wanted to sell something similar, but included a small motto or riddle in the wrapper. Smith was inspired by the noise from his fireplace to add a crackling noise to the sweets when they were pulled. After his death, Smith’s sons took over, growing the company and creating many differently themed crackers; from bachelors to suffragettes and war heroes. The party hat that was added inside the cracker is a reference to the three wise men.
These are just a few examples of some national traditions the people take part in during the festive season but every family or individual has their own twist on these and other traditions. Some people watch certain movies (my personal favourites are Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and The Holiday), while others play games or spend time with their loved ones. We would love to hear from you in the comments about what your favourite Christmas movies or Christmas traditions are so please get in touch! Everyone here at Mister Master & Little Miss wishes you a very Merry Christmas!
Love Patrick
